£300k Boost for Dylan Thomas’ Favourite Pub
A historic Welsh pub once frequented by legendary poet Dylan Thomas is set for a £300,000 government cash injection. The Vale of Aeron in Ceredigion will get the funding to secure its future and keep serving the local community for years to come.
Saving Valued Community Gems Across Wales
The funding comes from the Community Ownership Fund, a scheme aimed at helping local groups take charge of treasured places like pubs, museums, and sports clubs. Alongside the Vale of Aeron, £187,557 will help the Judge’s Lodging Museum in Powys maintain its old court building and stay financially stable.
So far, the fund has handed out £770,057 to three Welsh projects, part of a wider effort supporting 195 initiatives across the UK. This year marks a change, allowing projects to apply for up to £1 million with less stringent matching fund rules.
Government Voices Strong Support for Community Revival
“We are proud to support people taking control of their local assets,” said Welsh Secretary David TC Davies. “Levelling up is at the heart of the government’s ambitions. Communities across Wales will be transformed with this funding.”
Jacob Young, Minister for Levelling Up, called these spaces the “pride and joy” of many communities, highlighting their vital role in bringing people together.
More Funding Up for Grabs Until October
Local groups can still apply for up to £2 million through the fund until October 11, 2023. The scheme even offers expert help to develop strong business plans and applications, encouraging communities to save their local treasures. This move aims to halt the wave of pub closures and community venue losses knocking at Britain’s door.
