The following is a press release from the Vale of Glamorgan Council

The Vale of Glamorgan Council is preparing a bid of up to £20 million to the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund in an attempt to secure major investment for Barry.

The Council's proposal is still being finalised but it will aim to supercharge the further regeneration of Barry Waterfront.

Cllr Neil Moore, Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: "We are throwing everything we can at our bid for this funding as we intend for it to be as robust and compelling as possible. I am hopeful that the UK Government shares our confidence in future of Barry.

"Over the last 20 years, The Waterfront has seen the development of shops and restaurants as well as substantial housing investment. As a Council we now want to take the area to the next level by better linking it with the communities of Barry and unlocking the potential of employment land and leisure.

"I believe that Barry has a strong case for access to this fund and we will be making that point loud and clear. Discussions have taken place with our local MP who is supportive of our decision to submit a bid on Barry Waterfront and the surrounding areas. We want to ensure that the communities of Barry are better connected to the waterfront and that employment land is unlocked for future use. Most importantly this will be a proposal for an investment in jobs."

The Levelling Up Fund is designed to ensure that opportunities are more consistent across the Country by offering support to areas that are currently at a disadvantage. The UK Government is seeking single large-scale bids from Local Authorities at short notice in order to support its Levelling up agenda.

Money from it can be used to finance local schemes, including town centre and high street regeneration, improving transport systems or on projects relating to culture and heritage. The scheme represents a major opportunity to further invest in the area.

It is anticipated that the Council's bid will be submitted in the coming weeks, with a decision on whether it has been successful expected in the autumn.