Two major visitor attractions are set to receive a share of £15 million.
Venue Cymru in Conwy will receive £10 million from the UK Government. The money will fund the relocation of the existing library and Tourist Information Centre to create a modern and innovative cultural hub. The funding is subject to the submission of a full business case.
Newport Transporter Bridge will receive £5 million to fund vital repair and maintenance works.
Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:
“Venue Cymru and the Newport Transporter Bridge are iconic landmarks in their local communities, and I am delighted that this UK Government funding will be used to boost Wales’ already world-leading tourism and culture sectors.
“Our investment in these two fantastic projects is an example of how our Plan for Change will lead to a decade of national renewal for people the length and breadth of Wales. This is a UK Government that is delivering regeneration and economic growth for every community.”
Conwy County Borough Council has welcomed the announcement of funding for Venue Cymru.
Cllr Dilwyn Roberts, Cabinet Member for Culture, Governance and IT, said:
“We’re delighted to be chosen as one of the projects in this round of funding and we’re looking forward to expanding the cultural offer to the communities in Conwy County and further afield.
“Arts and culture are of huge importance in delivering a positive economic impact and in supporting the wellbeing of our communities. This funding will help protect the future of Venue Cymru and its work.”
Sarah Ecob, Head of Economy & Culture, said:
“Venue Cymru welcomes visitors from around the UK and overseas every year, delivering over £30 million in economic benefit to local businesses as well as offering visitors and our local community an exciting, diverse range of cultural events and activities.
“The investment in Venue Cymru is great news for the area and comes on the back of substantial funding investment in Llandudno from Welsh Government and UK Government, which has included work on the former M&S building on Mostyn Street, upgrade of all the shelters on the promenade, refurbishment of the popular Alice trail, and multiple business support grants.
“We’re looking forward to working with UK Government over the next few weeks to understand the details of the offer and to progress the project, which will help to safeguard a number of our services at this time of severe financial pressure for local authorities.”
