At this month’s full council meeting, Cllr. Freya Bletsoe (Ind, Oldcastle) asked whether – in light of ongoing and future investment in Maesteg Town Hall and Porthcawl Grand Pavilion – there will be “full and equitable investment” in other parts of the borough’s cultural heritage.
She focused on Bridgend’s musical talent and asked what support Bridgend Council to support the growing music scene in the county.
There was no answer from the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Cllr. Neelo Far (Lab, Porthcawl East Central), who promised a detailed written response instead.
However, Council Leader, Cllr. Huw David (Lab, Kenfig Hill, Pyle & Cefn Cribwr), said Awen Cultural Trust was specifically created by the council to take the lead on supporting the arts and culture on the council’s behalf.
The new Bridgend College campus at Cheapside will include space that can be used for arts and cultural events
Investment in Maesteg sports facilities welcomed
Cllr. Richard Collins (Lab, Maesteg West), welcomed the ongoing investment to upgrade facilities at Maesteg Sports Centre.
He also believed the proposed £300,000+ investment by the Lawn Tennis Association in tennis facilities across the county – including courts at Maesteg Welfare Park – would serve future generations well.
Cllr. Collins asked for reassurance that the council will continue to seek opportunities for external investment in leisure facilities for all ages. Cllr. Martin Hughes (Lab, Maesteg East) stressed the need for investment across the Ogmore and Garw valleys too.
The Council Leader said BCBC’s rolling programme of investment would continue and BCBC would seek opportunities for additional investment where possible.
As for investment in other valleys, the co-location of a library with the Garw Valley Leisure Centre in Pontycymer has proven popular locally. Discussions are ongoing on investment in youth services at that centre.
