New initiative to support Ceredigion’s rural towns

A new initiative has been launched to coordinate regeneration activity which will assist with the economic recovery of Ceredigion’s rural towns and outlying community.

The initiative is supported by Cynnal y Cardi Local Action Group (LAG) and a Ceredigion Rural Towns Development Officer has been appointed who will work alongside the Cynnal y Cardi Team to support the development of a package of ideas to create thriving people-centred and resilient towns.

Building on from previous engagement, the process will commence with officers engaging with town representatives to support them to deliver of their ideas. A collaborative approach will be taken, working with the local community, businesses and agencies to encourage sustainable ideas that meet the ongoing challenges and opportunities as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beti Gordon, newly appointed Rural Towns Development Officer, said: “This is something I’m really passionate about and I’m really looking forward to working with the local communities to facilitate improvements in the towns and outlying communities in Ceredigion.”

The Local Action Group has identified a number of priorities and this initiative will explore opportunities for strengthening capacity and resilience within Ceredigion’s communities; building on the current momentum for buying local whilst adding value to local products and in order to support and sustain Ceredigion’s town economy.

Councillor Rhodri Evans, Cabinet Member with responsibility for the Economy and Regeneration, said: “The challenges faced by Ceredigion’s rural towns and outlying communities is evident. However, this is an opportunity to identify what the aspirations for our towns are and deliver on those with the financial and coordinated support available. We need to work together to overcome those challenges being faced in the COVID-19 recovery phase with new and innovative ideas. The Ceredigion Economic Strategy has identified four priority areas where actions will be targeted in order to make a difference; People, Place, Enterprise and Connectivity, and through the Regenerating Ceredigion’s Rural Towns initiative we can continue to build and strengthen Ceredigion’s economy.”

This initiative is supported through the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.

To discuss your ideas, email Cynnal y Cardi (cynnalycardi@ceredigion.gov.uk) or visit www.cynnalycardi.org.uk