‘Exciting’ new plans for Barry Marina and Waterfront development worth up to £20 million have been unveiled today. Alun Cairns MP has been working closely with the Local Authority to develop the plan which will see record investment in the area.
The investment will come from the UK Government ‘Levelling Up Fund’ with the purpose of continuing the regeneration of the area. The package of projects will see new modern employment centres, a flagship building for the Ocean Watersports Trust, new leisure facilities and the Marina.
Alun Cairns stated, “This is great news for Barry in that we can bid for a substantial package of projects in and around the Waterfront that can deliver a Marina. The projects form a significant part of my plan to continue regenerating Wales biggest town. I have campaigned for some time to see these exciting projects develop which would bring the waterfront to life and create new employment sites and more quality jobs for local residents."
"My priority is to ensure that these projects act as a catalyst to attract more investment. We have been working with local investors to make a difference. Until now there are few modern employment sites available to create more jobs in Barry. This will change that. This project will be a major boost for the whole of the town. I am determined to ensure that we will connect all parts of Barry to these exciting opportunities."
"Last summer I put out a survey from residents on the waterfront and the feedback was amazingly positive. Nearly 80% of responses supported my plan for the Marina, I have been keen to push these projects ever since. I and the authority have listened to concerns over traffic management and this will be addressed in the plans."
There is already a pipeline of projects planned of more than £100 million, including proposals for a new waterfront college campus, primary school, and high-quality office accommodation as well as new facilities for rail providers, a transport interchange and a mixed housing and health gateway scheme.
Paul Haley (pictured right) former Chair of Pride in Barry and former Barry Regeneration Board Member stated,
"I welcome the plans for a Marina in Barry Waterfront which I have campaigned for 14 years. This will turn the sterile water of the once busy Dock waters into a thriving bussling centre of activity, opportunity and enjoyment. The Marina will become a catalyst for other projects, investment, jobs, training for young people, leisure activities, and will finally connect our Town back with its maritime heritage."
Dennis Harkus (pictured left) Chairman of local campaign group FOCUS Barry said,
“It is many years ago now that the housing consortium’s graphics showed a Marina on the south side of the Mole, so it’s good to know that some definite plans are now being drawn up to bid for finance via the levelling up fund to support the project.
I’m not a nautical person but I can see the real potential for Barry to benefit from this proposal which should attract much needed additional investment, create jobs and new leisure facilities.”
Under the Levelling Up bid any project must ensure the funding is spent within two years.
