PLANS are being drawn up that will see Welshpool's Y Lanfa rejuvenated as part of a £14 million project to boost the area's canal network.

Powys Council announced on Wednesday (January 4) that the Y Lanfa building, which houses Welshpool Library and Powysland Museum, its wharf and the associated listed Canal side cottages will be rejuvenated, with full plans set to be revealed soon.

The work will be part of the Powys’ Levelling Up funded project to rejuvenate the local canal network in Montgomeryshire by opening up previously un-navigable sections of the canal to attract more tourists to the region.

The drawings and plans for the scheme are currently being worked on, with further details set to follow as the project unfolds and an application for planning permission set to be submitted later this year.

Powys County Council says that the aim of this part of the project is to improve multi-functional use of Y Lanfa and try and create adaptable floor space which will ultimately improve the community and cultural services being offered from it.

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The council has also stated that their main two aims for the project are to make the waterways of the region more navigable, moving closer to the continuous connection of the national canal network, and refurbishment of the Y Lanfa hub.

Councillor David Selby, cabinet member for a more prosperous Powys, said: "This is an exciting opportunity to not only safeguard the future of an important landmark building but to improve the service for both the local community and tourists alike."

Announced by the Chancellor in the 2021 Autumn Budget, the £4.8billion Levelling Up Fund invests in infrastructure to improve everyday life across the UK including regenerating town centre and high streets, upgrading local transport, and investing in cultural and heritage assets.

Powys County Council secured £14 million from the Levelling Up Fund for its own projects.

As part of this project, Miller Research are gathering information through an online survey focused on understanding the needs of different users of the canal and surrounding area, and of visitors to the canal.

Powys County Council is also interested in hearing feedback from residents via filling out a quick survey which can be found here; https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/YLanfaEng/

The project is expected to be completed in March 2024.