Ynysybwl Regeneration Partnership

Description

The trust aims are to raise the quality of life for all, create opportunities for young people and create opportunities in health and sport as well as to help develop the local economy, particularly countryside access and tourism.

Formed in February 2000 Ynysybwl Regeneration Partnership became a development trust in 2003 in order to move proposed regeneration projects forward and develop income generating assets.  With a population of just under 5000 the community was built around the former Lady Windsor Colliery which closed in 1988 and led to a socio-economic decline in the community.

Location and Area of Benefit

Ynysybwl, Coed-y-Cwm and the forested area to the north of the village, in the Cynon Valley. Population now just under 5,000. The community was built around the former Lady Windsor Colliery which closed in 1988 and led to a socio-economic decline in the community.

Main services, Enterprises and Activities

The Trust’s main services and activities include an advice service, facilitating and supporting services that focus on education, environment, developing the economy through tourism and countryside access, meeting room hire, property development, sports and recreation, training, transport and youth work.

Emerging & Proposed Future Developments

Recently awarded one grant ‘Create Your Space’ a Lottery and Welsh Government Dormant accounts grant for £1,273,099. A seven-year project that aims to reimagine Ynysybwl as a green, sustainable and highly networked valley with emphasis on community owned assets, businesses and activities.  This necklace of activities will bring massive benefits to the existing community and will act to encourage more visitors and tourist, so supporting our local economy.  We have employed a Programme Manager to oversee the development of the seven-year project.

Key elements of the project include the redevelopment of Butchers Paddling Pool where children and families come together for leisure.  The development of a Visitor Centre in the heart of the Llanwynno Forestry promoting and encouraging walking; running; pony trekking; mountain biking as well as the heritage and biodiversity of the areas.  A Hub situated in the heart of the village that will create opportunities for people to come together to learn; gain experience through volunteering, and enhance their overall well-being.  We aim to offer Enterprise opportunities thus creating more job.