Showcasing SPF impact in Gwynedd

A fund administered by Cyngor Gwynedd has invested more than £24 million in local businesses and initiatives, creating and safeguarding jobs and giving communities across the county a boost.

A special event was held in Porthmadog this week to mark the success of Cyngor Gwynedd Shared Prosperity Fund and the projects from across the county that have benefited. The event was an opportunity for businesses, organisations and local elected representatives to come together at Porthmadog Football Club to share experiences and celebrate the positive impact of the fund.

Councillor Medwyn Hughes, Cabinet Member for Economy and Community welcomed the efforts of partners and communities to ensure the fund’s success. He said: “Thanks to the fund and by working with our communities, Cyngor Gwynedd has been able to bring about positive change, improving places to live and work in and providing new opportunities for people.”

“We have worked with businesses, the voluntary sector, partners and community groups to ensure the funding has been allocated to the right places. I am confident that this will contribute to our aim to build pride in our areas and boost life opportunities here in Gwynedd.

"We are grateful to all council partners for working together on fund projects and for delivering real benefit to the residents and communities of the county."

Through activities supported by the fund 67 new jobs have been created and 103 safeguarded. A total of 1,795 volunteering opportunities have also been created and 964 community events held. The environment has also benefitted – with 12 tonnes of equivalent carbon reduction and almost 300 homes improved energy efficiency.

One of the businesses that attended the event and has received support is Always Aim High Events. Through the fund the business has been able to develop a new events hub in Llanberis creating a new community facility and headquarters for the business.

Nigel Kendrick, one of the company’s owners said: “The support of Cyngor Gwynedd and the fund has enabled us to move back to our roots in Eryri. By developing the new centre, we can continue to play a key role in promoting tourism and outdoor sports in the area as well as protecting jobs and supporting local businesses and suppliers. The development is also in keeping with our company vision of promoting health and wellbeing.”