VALE Council say a transformative plan for Barry is ready to be submitted, but when that plan can actually be handed over is unclear after the UK Government suspended its decision to release millions of pounds of funding to the town.

On August 29, it was revealed the new Labour Government at Westminster is to review the 'Long-Term Plan For Towns Fund' which was announced by Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives when they were in government. 

The long-term plan for towns fund which Barry looked set to gain would have seen £20m staggered in £2m payments over a 10-year period.

This funding would be invested into improvements including regenerating the high street, tackling anti-social behaviour and improving connectivity.

However, the UK Government has chosen to suspend the decision-making process on the plan out so that ministers can consider their approach after the election.

A Vale of Glamorgan Council spokesperson said from their end, they are ready to go.

“The council is aware that the new UK Government has suspended its decision-making process on the Long-Term Plan For Towns Fund so Minsters can consider their approach.

“The Barry Partnership that was set up earlier in the year to prepare for this funding has worked tirelessly to develop a clear, community-led vision for Barry.

"That plan is ready for submission whenever it is requested and has met all the required deadlines set by government to access the funding to this point.”

The UK Government has told the B&D: "The government has outlined further details will be released in due course."

The funding could help the high streetThe funding could help the high street (Image: Newsquest)

The Welsh Government emphasised that Barry is still to receive a package of support through the 'Transforming Towns fund'.

Transforming Towns is a package of support, which provides the Welsh Government’s core regeneration investment in town centres. 

The Barry projects that have benefitted include £1.68m towards the Barry Western Gateway project, which will help enable the development of 80 affordable homes and the wider regeneration of the Barry Western Gateway area. 

Other investments in Barry include tackling empty properties in Holton Road, Wayfinding improvements and improved public realm and green infrastructure. 

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We are investing £125 million of Transforming Towns funding over three years (2022-25) to support our town and city centres.

“Vale of Glamorgan Council has received more than £5.3m of support through Transforming Towns grant and loan funding since January 2020 with the majority allocated to projects in Barry town centre.

“We look forward to detailed discussions with the UK Government on new arrangements for post-EU funds.”