Sioned Williams, Plaid Cymru Member of Senedd for South Wales West, has today welcomed news that the Friends of Talbot Memorial Park will finally be receiving financial support from Neath Port Talbot Council supplementing money from the Heritage Lottery Fund, to carry out necessary work on the bandstand.
Sioned Williams MS said:
“Talbot Memorial Park is a beautiful green space that is enjoyed by many residents in the local area and beyond, however for far too long the bandstand has been in a state of disrepair. Several months ago I had an opportunity to speak to members of the Friends group to discuss their work, exciting plans for the future and concerns over funding.”
“Over the last few months I have been in regular contact with representatives from the Council, pushing for an agreement to be made that would allow work to progress.”
“It is disappointing that it has taken so long to reach this agreement, but I am relieved that the new administration has recognised and appreciated the efforts of the Friends and importance of this project for the community. It is my hope that this will be a major step towards improving the entirety of this historic community park.”
Talbot Memorial Park is short distance from the centre of Port Talbot and is listed as Grade II on the Glamorgan Register of Historic Parks and Gardens in Wales. Aside from the bandstand, the park also contains a war memorial, a child’s play park, tennis courts, bowling green and a flower bed with signage dedicated to local boy turned Hollywood icon, Richard Burton.