Newtown's new £1.5 million riverside venue official opening date set

Friday (October 21) marks the start of the building being open seven days a week and there's plenty of events planned for residents and visitors to enjoy in the weeks ahead including Rory Evans' ghost talk on Halloween (Monday, October 31)

The community and visitor centre, which is built on the site of the former Radio Hafren building near the Dolerw Park bridge, has been in regular use since the Newtown Food Festival in early September for creative workshops, music groups and private gatherings. First Minister Mark Drakeford was one of the building's first visitors when he stopped to visit Newtown in early August to see Welsh Government-funded projects.

Hafan yr Afon manager Mollie George explained that there have delays to get the £1.5 million building ready for its full opening which has seen setbacks since work began in early 2021.

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“The original building contract didn’t include for the kitchen fit out, shelving areas and stores, which is what we’ve been working on recently," Mollie said.

"We must give thanks to some great local contractors who have done a fantastic job working with our new caterer Bubbling Stove Bistro.

"Shout out to the team at Philip Jones Builders, JJC Decorating, Hywel Jones Carpentry, Andrew Evans Landscapes and Craig Beckerleg Plastering who came in at short notice to complete the work required inside and out.”

Open Newtown, who is in charge of the building, said the two-storey Hafan yr Afon will be used to host regular events and bookable activities. There is also a dog-friendly cafe, retail area, tourist information area, and a function room that can accommodate up to 100 people which is available to hire with a full media suite.

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People looking to enjoy Newtown's cycle paths will be able to hire a bike from the centre, and there are plans for forest and river school activities for children and adults. Open Newtown added that it will be working with community groups to create a "safe space"for the town's young people.

The project has been enabled by the support of Welsh Government, National Lottery Community Fund Wales, Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn Town Council, and Powys County Council, constructed by local contractor Pave Aways, after a public competitive tender process.

Speaking earlier this year, Councillor David Selby, Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys at Powys County Council, said: “This iconic building is a major development for Newtown and surrounding area to serve both residents and visitors alike. It will be a gateway to the open spaces and to the town providing advice, activities, community spaces and refreshment."