Natural Resources Minister announces £419,953 for local community projects

Natural Resources Minister Carl Sargeant has announced £419,953 capital funding for six local projects across Wales as part of the Aggregate Levy Fund.

The fund was established in 2002 as a consequence of the introduction of a levy on the commercial extraction of aggregate – defined as hard rock, sand and gravel. Some of the money raised through this levy is directed, via the Fund, to support capital projects in communities significantly affected by the industrial process of quarrying.

The six projects to receive a share of the £419,953 are:

Blaenrhonddan Community Council – £105,000 – to overhaul and restore an existing 2 acre play area located at Caewern, near Neath
Llanelli Wanderers Rugby Football Club – £105,000 –  to carry out Phase II works to existing club facilities at Llanelli Wanderers RFC’s ground
Alberbury Cricket Club – £19,953 – to replace and re-site the Club’s practice nets
Nelson Rugby Football Club – £55,000 –  to carry out essential repairs and improvements to the changing rooms and community facilities at Nelson RFC
Porthmadog Football Club – £85,000 –  to construct a 124m² extension to the Club’s existing social clubhouse in order to provide a skills development and learning centre for Porthmadog and surrounding communities
Tavernspite Village Hall Committee – £50,000 – to carry out essential repairs and improvements to Tavernspite Village hall.
Natural Resources Minister Carl Sargeant said:

“The projects receiving a share of this funding all make significant contributions to their communities who will benefit from the improved facilities.

“This fund puts important capital spending back into areas affected by the industrial process of quarrying.

“As a pro-business government we are working closely with companies to create growth and jobs in every part of Wales and I’m delighted that local contractors will benefit from the work.