Case study

£17.7 million for the Vale of Neath (Levelling Up Fund 2)

£17.7 million from the Levelling Up Fund will be used by Neath Port Talbot Council to establish the Vale of Neath as a major visitor destination.

The funding will support development of the key heritage destinations in the Vale of Neath. It will help deliver 2 major projects.

The Gnoll Estate Country Park

The Gnoll Estate is famed for its natural beauty. Funding will enhance the appeal of the park as a visitor destination. Improvements include:

  • opening-up access to important heritage features, including Gnoll House cellars and cascades Through restoration and improvement development of on-site accommodation
  • modernisation of the visitor centre and cafe
  • better parking facilities and electric charging
  • better links with the neighbouring Woodland Trust site

Find out more about the Gnoll Estate

The Waterfall Country Pontneddfechan

Waterfall Country is one of the most beautiful and popular parts of the Brecon Beacons National Park and the Fforest Fawr Geopark. Currently, the area struggles to accommodate visitors at peak times. Plans for the funding will improve infrastructure for visitors and reduce pressure on the village.

This includes:

  • creation of a visitor hub building with public toilets, a farm and shop
  • bunk house visitor accommodation
  • permanent coach and minibus parking and electrical vehicle charging facilities
  • improvements to the entrance of the village with a village square

The project will allow the area to accommodate existing visitors during peak times and attract new visitors.

Find out more about Waterfall Country

Find out more about Levelling Up

Published 1 November 2023