THE man who co-founded insurance giant Admiral will chair a ‘partnership’ that will determine priorities in the regeneration of Barry.

David Stevens co-founded Admiral in 1991 before retiring as CEO in March 2020.

Last Autumn, it was announced that Barry would receive £2m a year for the next 10 years in funding from the UK Government as part of its Levelling Up grant.

The Government has asked each town receiving this grant to highlight their local priorities associated with regeneration, high streets and heritage; tackling anti-social behaviour, improving safety and security; and improving connectivity – walking/cycling/transport.

A key element of the scheme will be involvement from residents to highlight what matters most in your local area.

Made up of local residents, businesses and community groups, the Barry Partnership has been established to determine the priorities for how the funding should be spent.

On the project, Mr Stevens said: “The goal of the £2m a year spend over the next 10 years is to make a positive difference to Barry, not just as a one-off but for the long-term.

“To achieve that we need your help, your best ideas, on how to make the most of the money.”

Speaking about the project, Vale Council Leader Cllr Lis Burnett, said: “Barry and its people have no shortage of talent or ambition.

“At a time when the Council’s budgets are under significant strain, this additional funding will provide money for the longer-term achievement of that ambition and to deliver improvements that otherwise we simply could not afford.”

Barry And District News: David Stevens co-founded Admiral in 1991 before retiring as CEO in March 2020David Stevens co-founded Admiral in 1991 before retiring as CEO in March 2020 (Image: Admiral)

Alun Cairns MP, who is a member of the partnership, said: “The Barry Partnership has now been established and it is a privilege to be part of the body that will spend £20million in UK Government Levelling Up funding to regenerate the town centre.

“Mr Stevens is a great addition as chairman.

“We have much to look forward to and we will be busy over the coming weeks to ensure our plan is established by August.”

Vale Council is looking for representatives who would like to join the partnership, as well as those who would like to share their views at future engagement events.

If you would like to get involved in shaping Barry’s future, for more information and to register your interest, visit https://participate.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/plan-for-barry.