It was great to see such a positive film featuring Barry Island on prime time BBC One this week and last. The One Show is a hugely popular show, and it was fantastic to see so much optimism being associated with a resort that has such enduring appeal. The cameras were present at the start of the year when Henry Danter and those of us supporting him were doing all we could to get the fairground up and running for the summer season.
There were times when we thought that time was running out for this summer, but it goes to show what can be done with everyone pulling in the same direction. It was very pleasing to see so many coaches parked up over the bank holiday weekend having dropped off hundreds of visitors, and I am sure they would have had a great experience.
As we enter September, despite a poor season weather wise, the Danter family, Marco and his team and all the traders on the Island should be proud for having brought so much life back to Barry Island in such a short space of time. The most exciting aspect is that the summer of 2016 will be even better – more private investment, unique and permanent fairground rides, new shops and eateries and hopefully some sunshine too!
With all the good news emanating from Barry Island, I am hopeful that the future of Nell’s Point will be clearer going into New Year – it is a fantastic opportunity for an investor with a clear vision to transform a site that could play a key role in the revival that we are all witnessing.
It is back to school time for pupils and parents across Barry. We have seen a great deal of debate on the future of schooling in Barry in the past six months, and I continue to call for what is best for pupils from all parts of Barry to be the primary concern. I would like to offer all the pupils, families and teachers my best wishes for the new school year ahead.