Exciting times ahead for regenerated Bangor

Oct 8 2008 By Daniel Bissett

Bangor

BANGOR could be set to undergo a regeneration with a number of new "exciting ventures" planned for the city.

The proposed changes by Bangor City Council include a state-of-the-art information centre, more and improved footpaths and cycle tracks, new bus routes and the restoration of the town clock.

It is thought the improvements will complement the Môn-Menai scheme, an economic development plan for the area established in light of the closure of Wylfa power station, which has promoted the benefits of walking and cycling, commercial activity partnerships, environmental attractions, accommodation, heritage and cultural attractions as well as transport.

Speaking at a recent meeting of Bangor City Council’s finance and general purposes committee, town clerk Gwyn Hughes outlined the proposals, which could happen in the next five years.

"There are a number of very exciting ventures and developments that could happen in Bangor in the near future.

"If we get the support, then it could happen very soon and there would be a sustainable transport system which would offer different ways of moving about Bangor.

"There would be more footpaths for pedestrians, cycle lanes, new bus routes, a kind of regeneration that has been happening in towns and cities in England for some time, and is now beginning in Wales.

"Public transport is important because we should be using fewer cars, so it would be beneficial to the environment too."

He said due to the Bangor Pride initiative, a partnership which promotes cleaning-up the city, the High Street, bus station, parks, bowling greens, are all improving, but the footpaths and roads are still in a "terrible state" and something needs to be done.

One possible development would be a new information centre which would be used by residents and tourists alike.

"We were considering building an information centre near the bus station, but I think this facility would have to be a reasonable size and with up-to-date facilities for visitors and bus users, so we’ll need to consider our options and choose carefully," said Mr Hughes.

The town clock has been an issue for the city council for a number of years and would be part of any regeneration plan.

He said: "It’s time to restore the clock to its former glory because it clearly needs to be cleaned and painted."

Bangor City Council will invite Dafydd Hughes, the Assembly officer leading the Môn-Menai scheme, to give a talk at the next meeting to explain how the scheme will benefit the city.

The issue of finances may be a stumbling block for any regeneration process with the city council looking to secure grants that would go some way towards meeting any costs.

"We would looking for various grants from the Assembly Government and other authorities," said Mr Hughes.