Welshpool council approves £83k Pride in Place town‑centre revamp
Council green‑lights an £83,000 scheme to upgrade streets, lighting and visitor facilities across Welshpool, with work slated for 2026‑27.
Welshpool Town Council has given the go‑ahead to an £83,000 improvement scheme funded by the UK Government’s Pride in Place Impact Fund.
Councillors approved the plan at a meeting on 23 September, endorsing new street furniture, wayfinding signs, planting, lighting and visitor information across the town centre.
The works will stretch along Broad Street, Church Street and Severn Road, as well as Berriew Street, Vicarage Gardens and Hall Street.
Ponthowell Gardens, the canal area and Lower Powis Park are also set to receive upgraded benches, litter bins and enhanced lighting.
Richard Williams, the town clerk, said: “This is an important milestone for a project which will make a visible difference across Welshtown town centre.” “A lot of work has taken place behind the scenes to identify where improvements are most needed, listen to feedback and work through the practicalities with the different organisations responsible for our streets and public spaces.”
The council’s decision follows months of consultation with local businesses, residents and transport providers.
Feedback highlighted a need for clearer pedestrian routes, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the historic layout.
New wayfinding signs will use a consistent design language, helping walkers navigate from the bus station to the market square.
Existing benches that have suffered wear and vandalism will be replaced rather than simply added to.
Modern litter bins equipped with recycling compartments aim to improve cleanliness and reduce litter on the streets.
Landscaping will introduce native shrubs and flowering plants to soften hard surfaces and create a more welcoming streetscape.
Improved street lighting, including energy‑efficient LED fixtures, will enhance safety after dark.
Bus stop signage will be upgraded with clearer timetables and real‑time information displays.
A digital visitor information screen is planned for the outside of the town hall, offering interactive maps and event listings.
Cycle parking will be expanded with secure racks near the canal towpath and the town’s main shopping precinct.
The council has earmarked funds for a modest amount of public art, though details remain under review.
Contractors will be appointed once detailed designs are finalised and any remaining planning permissions are secured.
Work is expected to commence later in 2026, with the majority of improvements delivered by early 2027.
Local shop owners have welcomed the investment, noting that a refreshed town centre could boost footfall and support the 555 businesses currently operating in Powys.
Transport officials anticipate that clearer signage and better lighting will improve the experience for bus users and cyclists alike.
Environmental groups have praised the inclusion of native planting, which should enhance biodiversity along the canal corridor.
The Pride in Place Impact Fund, part of a wider government initiative, aims to support community‑led projects that improve public spaces and promote social cohesion.
Welshpool’s scheme is one of several across Wales, but the council hopes its comprehensive approach will set a benchmark for other towns.
Residents will be kept informed through regular updates on the council’s website and at community meetings.
By the end of the programme, the town expects a noticeable uplift in the quality of its public realm, aligning with broader Sustainable Powys objectives.
The council’s endorsement marks a decisive step towards a more vibrant, accessible and attractive Welshpool town centre.