The first glimpses of the transformative £21.7 million Elan Valley Lakes project are soon to be unveiled to Powys locals by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water.

The huge project is seeking funding from the Mid Wales Growth Deal. to support the five year development.

It is in line with the Growth Deal strategic growth priorities in delivering sustainable tourism, and it could make mid-Wales one of the must visit destinations in the country.

April saw the Growing Mid Wales Board grant approval for the Outline Business Case of the project, which was a significant milestone for the project.

The project's progress to Full Business Case, the final stage of the bid, means that the project's first phase has been set into motion: the redevelopment of the visitor centre.

Dŵr Cymru has announced their partnership with the well known architectural firm, Ray Hole Associates, chosen for their ability to translate the development's vision into a concrete plan.

 Elan Valley Visitor Centre  (Image: Dŵr Cymru)

As a result, on Saturday, August 3, from 10am to 3.30pm, Ray Hole and other project stakeholders will at the Elan Valley site.

They will have the draft plans for people to look at and visitors will have the chance to provide feedback, before they apply for planning permission.

The visitor centre redesign includes panoramic views of the Caban Coch Dam from the café, a roomy reception area, and a retail space intended to be inviting.

It would also feature a planetarium and exhibition area and a teaching kitchen for apprenticeship programmes.

The Centre is located at Elan Valley, Rhayader, Powys, LD6 5HP.

Residents are invited to inspect the plans, engage in discussions with Mr Hole and Elan Valley employees, and provide vital feedback before the team proceeds to the subsequent planning permission application stage with the Powys Council.

Part of the project's remit includes safeguarding the environment through renewable energy use and low-carbon development, thereby contributing to Dŵr Cymru's journey towards net-zero emissions.

The project is also focusing on enhancing biodiversity by expanding and reinstating the Elan Valley's rare Celtic Rainforest, in an attempt to reassemble fragmented regions into an improved biodiversity hotspot.

For more information about the event you can call 01597 810880, or email rangers.elan@dwrcymru.com.

You can also find out more by visiting https://elan-valley.co.uk/.