Latest press release

• Town’s residents urged to join action groups and contribute ideas on how £2 million a year fund will be spent
• Successful local business people and public servants lead the Barry Plan for Neighbourhoods with a mission to make long-term positive improvements to the town

A motivated team of local leaders are the driving force behind the Barry Plan for Neighbourhoods initiative, a £2 million a year investment over 10 years funded by the UK Government to improve the town.

Led by one of the most successful business people in Wales, resident and former Admiral CEO David Stevens CBE, the Barry Plan for Neighbourhoods Board brings together some familiar local faces all with a track record of making a positive difference in Barry.

And now they are on the hunt for more local doers to join one of five action groups that will shape how the funding can be spent to tackle the issues that matter most to people: improving public safety, increasing opportunities for young people, helping local businesses to thrive, supporting better health and wellbeing, and bringing communities together.

Local business owner and branding expert, Fay Blakeley, is leading the Vibrant Barry action group, with a mission to breathe new life into Barry’s shopping areas and leisure spaces. Fay, who has provided branding and marketing advice to some of the UK’s leading organisations during her distinguished design career, said:

“This funding is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I am so proud of our town, and I just know that we can come up with clever, creative and practical ways to spend this money to make Barry even better. I hope my fellow residents will respond to this call to action and join an action group to help shape a brighter future for us all.”

Another familiar face, and someone who can deliver entertainment on a grand scale, is Matt Blumberg, the founder of Mack Events which runs GlastonBARRY. Matt is leading the Barry Together action group which will explore how the town’s events spaces can be better used to support local talent and cement Barry’s reputation in arts and entertainment. He said:

“As a lifelong Barry resident with a background in youth work, teaching and events, I’m passionate about supporting young musicians, performers, and entrepreneurs, and committed to creating opportunities and promoting the town through this exciting initiative.”

A key aim of the Barry Plan for Neighbourhoods is to tackle anti-social behaviour. Chief Superintendent Marc Attwell is leading the Safer Barry action group aimed at making the town a safer place for residents and visitors.

Innes Robinson, Executive Headteacher of Whitmore High School and Pencoedtre High School will lead the Barry Futures action group to equip young people and those looking for work with the skills and training they need to get rewarding jobs.

Finally, Senior Community Development Officer Sarah Cutting, will lead the health, wellbeing, and community action group, Barry Thriving Communities.

To apply to join a Barry Plan for Neighbourhoods action group, or for more information, visit www.barry.cymru or email [email protected].

Applications to join the action groups should be submitted by 12 noon on Friday 12 September, while comments and ideas from individuals, businesses, or organisations in Barry are welcome at any time.