Bargoed's big idea is still a reality

Caerphilly county borough council is keen to assure traders and shoppers in Bargoed that negotiations are still underway to secure an anchor store to front an exciting new retail development that will help regenerate the whole town centre.

News emerged last week that that the town had been unsuccessful in its bid to attract Welsh Assembly money to help kick start the scheme, but the council is keen to stress that hopes are still very much alive for the development to proceed.

The council is working with developer Simons to get a major supermarket on board.

Cllr Ron Davies, CCBC Cabinet Member for regeneration added, "Traders in Bargoed can be assured that we are working hard to drive this ambitious scheme forward. We recognise that this development is key to Bargoed's future success and we are hopeful that we can secure a major name in the near future."

Chris Newsome, Development Director of Simons Developments said, "Despite the recession Simons is delivering on town centre developments, such as Carmarthen, where construction is well under way. The credit crunch has created problems for all town centre developments, however, the financial climate does appear to be improving and there is still strong interest from several foodstore operators in Bargoed. "

The company will present its proposals for moving the development forward to the council and Welsh Assembly Government before the end of the year.