A new grant to support tourism and hospitality businesses was launched in Blaenau Gwent on St David’s Day 2024.
Blaenau Gwent, one of Wales’s smallest local authorities, sits at the Heads of the Valleys on the fringe of Banna Brechieniog (Brecon Beacons). It is home to popular sites such as Parc Bryn Bach, Bedwellty House and Park, Guardian, Gwent Archives and Ebbw Vale Owl Sanctuary.
The grant scheme is open to new and existing businesses. It is funded by UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and managed by Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council. The grant is aimed at tourism and hospitality businesses such as B & B’s, Holiday Lets, Guest Houses, hotels, attractions, venues, guides, and activity providers. Projects should deliver new and better visitor facilities and experiences, this could include green energy and decarbonisation, innovative and new technology, increased or upgraded visitor accommodation.
Grants of between £1,000 - £50,000 are available for both revenue and capital expenditure.
Cllr John Morgan, Cabinet Member for Place & Regeneration and Economic Development said:
“It’s from here that Wales became the world first industrial nation, and we are the birthplace of the NHS. The area grew around coal and iron, but it is now a fabulous place to walk, enjoy a meal and explore our rich heritage. We hope that this grant will enable businesses to develop and upgrade visitor accommodation to encourage more people to enjoy what Blaenau Gwent has to offer.”
Helen Katranamos, owner of Vamos by the River in Abertillery, says:
‘It is a very challenging time for hospitality with high utility charges and ingredient costs, so we welcome any help there is to invest in our business.’
Full details of the grant scheme can be found on the Blaenau Gwent Business Hub website.
