Town revmp is 'major project' (From Barry And District News)

Town revmp is 'major project'

BARRY'S once-crumbling town centre could be in line for a fantastic new facelift.

Plans have been revealed by the Vale of Glamorgan Council that could see Central Park, the Town Hall and the surrounding area completely revamped.

The scheme, drawn up by the local authority's 'major projects' group, was presented to the planning committee last week.

Although any decision on the matter was deferred so the committee can visit the site, and for a presentation of the proposals by the major projects team, the plans promise a town centre with a bright future.

The work being carried out on the Town Hall is almost complete, but that could be just a taste of things to come. The main part of the project involves extending the west wing of the building to house an open-plan main library. The 'contemporary design' extension will front on to Tynewydd Road, with a seating and viewing area.

If the scheme is given the go-ahead, King Square will be effectively redesigned with semi-mature trees on the south and west sides. It will be the new setting for the weekly market, which is held every Tuesday.

Central Park would be improved with developments including two play areas, a youth shelter and a basketball court.

The Wyndham Street car park would be up-graded and resurfaced.

Secretary of the Barry Citizens' Action Group (BCAG), Dilys Colbourne, said: "We are very pleased that the Vale of Glamorgan Council have made visible and obvious efforts to improve the Town Hall and surrounding area, but we do not want to see time dragging by with no more progress.

"The council has identified potential problems, and are seeking to address those problems. But as a group, we will not rest until the last brick has been laid, with Central Park and the Town Hall restored to their former glory."