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Barry placemaking plan 'lacks clarity' - Plaid

Tuesday, 24 June 2025 16:34

By Gareth Joy X @lookoutwales2

Plaid Cymru politicians have criticised a 'lack of clarity' over a placemaking plan for Barry.

Earlier this month, Vale of Glamorgan Council announced a new strategy for each of the county's four town centres.

It's understood the proposals for Barry are still at a draft stage, while the cabinet has approved plans for Cowbridge, Penarth and Llantwit Major.

But one local councillor said she was taken aback after a press release claimed that Barry Town Council would be responsible for the plan, which had been developed by officers and consultants at Vale of Glamorgan Council.

In response, the deputy leader of the county council accused Plaid of ''talking down'' Barry.

Cllr Shirley Hodges, who leads the Plaid group on the town council, said: "I was genuinely shocked to hear – from a local news radio bulletin - that Barry Town Council are expected to implement the Vale's plans."

"We have met with Vale officers and their consultants, but at no stage were we told that Barry Town Council would be responsible for delivering it—nor are we resourced to do so."

"We have our own Corporate Plan, based on the priorities of Barry Town Council and consulted upon in 2022. Why are the Vale trying to repeat this and then ask us to deliver it?"

Cllr Hodges said she was sceptical over the county council's claims that the placemaking plans would shape future spending by the local authority.

"Which council are they talking about? Barry Town Council hasn't committed funding. And I strongly suspect the Vale hasn't either. Making promises you can't afford helps no one."

She added that councillors from both Labour and Plaid Cymru had raised concerns at their most recent meeting with Vale officers on June 9th - including a lack of sporting provision and a "controversial" plan for an outdoor café by Barry's cenotaph.

"I made it very clear that I cannot support a plan that includes something so inappropriate," said Cllr Hodges.

"The Vale needs to meet with us again, urgently, and be honest about who is responsible and what they expect."

"I won't be held accountable for delivering a wish list drawn up without reference to Barry Town Council's own priorities—or budget."

Barry Town Council said it had been working alongside the county council - who are working with specialist consultants - to contribute to the placemaking plan.

A spokesperson told Bro Radio News: "The Placemaking Plan for Barry remains in draft form, with additional stakeholder consultations taking place this week and further public consultations scheduled for the autumn."

"The most recent draft of the plan has been shared with all town councillors. All elected members were also invited to attend a forum to share their views on the plan as it currently stands, and to contribute their ideas and priorities for the town as development of the plan continues."

"Barry Town Council will continue to work with those developing the placemaking plan for Barry, providing opportunities for our elected members to speak on behalf of their wards, and ensuring the best possible plan for Barry and its people."

Announcing the placemaking plan earlier this month, deputy council leader Bronwen Brooks said: "This is about putting our communities first – actively engaging with residents, local businesses and community stakeholders and asking them about their ideas, priorities and hopes for the future."

"Placemaking is about more than bricks and mortar. It’s about creating spaces that people feel proud of - places where you want to spend time, where businesses can grow, and where communities can thrive."

"Through countless conversations, events and surveys in Barry, Penarth, Llantwit Major and Cowbridge, we’ve listened carefully to what matters most to people in each town."

The deputy leader of the county council said Cllr Hodges and Plaid Cymru had been "fully aware" of the partnership approach taken towards creating the placemaking plan.

Cllr Bronwen Brooks said: "For clarification, the Vale of Glamorgan Council has supported, facilitated, and co-commissioned the development of these plans, with each respective town council. The plans reflect the unique character, priorities, and aspirations of each community."

"The Barry Plan remains in development in partnership with the town council. At the heart of these plans is a shared ambition to make sure our communities remain vibrant, resilient, and truly people-centred places for generations to come."

"The plan, when launched will be implemented jointly by the council, town councils, local businesses and communities."

"It is disappointing that Plaid Cymru and Cllr Hodges have decided to take this approach when they have been part of the process from the start and are fully aware of the partnership approach being taken and the roles of each respective organisation in that process."

"It would seem they would rather talk down Barry rather than recognise the steps being taken to improve this great town."

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