NEW plans for Barry Marina and Waterfront development worth up to £20 million have been unveiled.

MP Alun Cairns MP and the Vale Council have been working to develop the regeneration plan, and a bid has been put in for investment from the UK Government’s Levelling Up fund.

If the bid is successful projects will include:

  • New modern employment centres;
  • A flagship building for Ocean Watersports Trust;
  • New leisure facilities;
  • A marina.

Mr Cairns said: “This is great news for Barry in that we can bid for a substantial package of projects in and around the Waterfront that can deliver a marina.

“I have campaigned for some time to see these exciting projects develop which would bring the waterfront to life and create new employment sites and more quality jobs for residents.”

He added that his priority is ensuring that these projects “act as a catalyst to attract more investment” and “create more jobs in Barry”.

According to Mr Cairns nearly 80 per cent of waterfront residents surveyed last summer (2021) supported plans for a marina. Although some expressed concerns over traffic management, Mr Cairns said “this will be addressed in the plans”.

Former chairman of Pride in Barry and former Barry Regeneration Board member Paul Haley, who has campaigned for a marina for 14 years, said he welcomes the plans.

“This will turn the sterile water of the once busy Dock waters into a thriving bustling centre of activity, opportunity, and enjoyment,” said Mr Haley.

“The marina will become a catalyst for other projects, investment, jobs, training for young people, leisure activities, and will finally connect our Town back with its maritime heritage."

Chairman of local campaign group, FOCUS Barry, Dennis Harkus is also pleased with the news.

“It’s good to know that some definite plans are now being drawn up to bid for finance via the levelling up fund to support the project,” said Mr Harkus.

“I’m not a nautical person, but I can see real potential for Barry to benefit from this proposal which should attract much needed additional investment, create jobs and new leisure facilities.”

Under the Levelling Up bid any project must ensure the funding is spent within two years.