Funding to improve Vale tourism facilities

Wednesday, 14 May 2025 00:05

By Gareth Joy X @lookoutwales2

Two tourism projects in the Vale will get a share of £5 million in Welsh Government funding.

Fourteen schemes across Wales have secured grants from the Brilliant Basics fund to improve essential facilities for visitors.

Locally, nearly £234,000 will be spent by Vale of Glamorgan Council on new changing facilities and beach wheelchairs on Barry Island, along with digital displays on water quality in the area.

Meanwhile, toilets will be refurbished at the two country parks at Porthkerry and Cosmeston Lakes - with improved facilities for disabled users - with the aid of a £300,000 grant to the council's Countryside Services department.

Deputy council leader Bronwen Brooks said: "We’re delighted to have secured over £530,000 in this fresh round of Brilliant Basics funding to support improvements at some of the Vale’s most popular destinations."

"These projects demonstrate the strength of partnership working across the Council, and this latest successful bid builds on our ongoing commitment to investing in infrastructure that helps make the Vale more inclusive, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone."

Vale Council has already made a number of successful bids for funding in recent years to make improvements to basic facilities such as toilets at the beaches at Ogmore-by-Sea, Southerndown and Llantwit Major.

The Cosmeston Gateway scheme has also benefited along with upgrades to seating, shelter, footpaths and parking for the Porthkerry Gateway to the Coast project.

Other projects to benefit in South Wales this year include improved parking facilities and new EV chargers at Cwm Clydach Country Park in Tonypandy and improvements to the entrance at Margam Country Park, near Port Talbot.

The funding announcement coincides with Wales Tourism Week.

Economy Secretary, Rebecca Evans - who has responsibility for tourism - said: "I am delighted to announce this significant investment in tourism infrastructure as Visit Wales’ latest campaign – ‘Year of Croeso’ – continues to share our warm ‘croeso’ and unique ‘hwyl’ with the world."

"Tourism is a vital part of the Welsh economy, but we recognise that increased visitor numbers can sometimes put pressure on local infrastructure, particularly in popular destinations."

"This funding will help address these challenges while supporting our commitment to sustainable, inclusive tourism."

"By investing in these basic but essential facilities, we are not only enhancing the visitor experience but also supporting local communities and protecting our natural environment for generations to come."

The latest round of funding prioritised schemes aimed at alleviating presures at tourism hotspots, as well as promoting enviromentally sustainable destinations, improving accessibilty and the overall experience for visitors.

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