The future of Margam Park is under the microscope

Neath Port Talbot Council is currently inviting potential developers to participate in a 'market sounding exercise' to scope the future use of the Park.

The historic 300 hectares attraction which has been part of Port Talbot's history for hundreds of years is now under the microscope, opening up opportunities for major developments.

As part of the exercise the council intend to attract organisations with a track record in delivering prestigious leisure developments. It is anticipated that they will come forward with ideas as to how the Park can be best taken forward as a national attraction.

The council believes that in addition to tourism that there are also untapped opportunities including Sport and Leisure, Education, Retail, Catering, Tourist Accommodation, Special Events and Corporate Hospitality.

Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Ali Thomas, said, "Margam Country Park is a much loved destination, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors a year. However, we recognise that there is potential within the Park that could further enhance its popularity and provide the county borough with one of the country's premier attractions and destinations. We are very excited by this and are confident that it will bring forward a developer that will realise the Park's full potential."

Information on the 'Market Sounding Exercise' can be found on the council's website www.npt.gov.uk/margammarketsounding. Potential developers will be able to submit their proposals until mid January 2010, after which the council will consider the submissions.