Phase two of new-look Neath given green light
Councillors in Neath Port Talbot have given the go-ahead for the next stage in the redevelopment of Neath’s town centre, which will be built on the site of the now-demolished multi-storey car park.
The initial phase of the new-look Neath saw the construction of a modern 600-space multi-storey car park to replace the old one, together with a large Wilko store.
The aim is to provide suitable space for high-street retail names to complement those already in the town, including Marks & Spencer, New Look, Clarks and Next.
The council can now start work on commissioning a contractor to deliver the retail scheme and work on site is expected to start next year.
Councillor Rob Jones, the leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, said: “This council is very aware of the pressures that traditional town centres are coming under from online shopping and out-of-town retail parks. We are determined to ensure that Neath continues to be an attractive destination for businesses, shoppers, residents and visitors alike.
“I was chairing the planning committee when the plans for Neath’s town centre were first published and I am pleased to see the redevelopment now moving on to the next step and taking shape.”
Another development due to start on site next spring will involve the building of five to six smaller retail units with 12 apartments on the first and second floors, all sited at the rear of the service yard of Neath’s Boots store.
It will be delivered by Coastal Housing and will also include Water Street and Orchard Street being widened to improve pedestrian links to Neath’s Gwyn Hall, Victoria Gardens and the bus station.
And a decision has been made to retain one of Neath town centre’s oldest buildings, the much-loved Greyhound pub on Water Street.
Water Street, which got its name because Gnoll Brook originally ran through the thoroughfare in the town centre, once contained a number of public houses, but only the Greyhound – affectionately nicknamed “The Dog” – now remains.
Neath is establishing a growing reputation as a place to eat and drink and has seen significant investment from private companies and individuals in premises such as Moruzzi & Co and Charlie’s Wine Bar & Grill.
Further investment has also been made in the town’s former Constitutional Club and its landmark Castle Hotel, where Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton once stayed, which has now undergone an expensive refurbishment under new owners.
The town’s reputation has been further enhanced by a number of successful annual events which add to the historic Neath September Fair, including the Food & Drink Festival, a real ale and cider festival and the Great Guitar Gig.