open newtown
Newtown
Where we came from Back in 2015, the town’s community plan identified our
environment and green spaces as important to keep, to make better and to make
more use of. In 2016, the opportunity arose for the community to take on the
stewardship of 130 acres of the towns parks, open spaces and river frontage.
With the support of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council this asset was
secured on a 99 year lease and subsequent sublease, from Powys County Council.
To take this land on – and to work with the community on new ideas and
activities – Going Green for a Living Community Land Trust Ltd was formed in
2017. We trade as Open Newtown. Much easier to remember. In 2018 Open Newtown
secured a £1.1 million grant from The National Lottery Community Fund Wales as
part of their Community Asset Transfer fund to enable it to develop the lands
assets and to establish the projects and partnerships that would allow Newtown’s
green spaces to be managed in perpetuity for the community. The majority of this
funding has been invested in our new community & visitor centre, Hafan Yr Afon.
The land is maintained through a Service Level Agreement contract between
ourselves and Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council, to maintain the land to
the standards set out in the lease agreement. We are uniquely placed to provide
the best value for money on behalf of the community and provide further services
in betterment of the agreement, through improved seating, reactive and planned
maintenance, Park Ranger services, clearing anti-social hot spots. supporting
and leading on new public events, securing 1000’s of volunteer hours, providing
training opportunities, all in partnership with local contractors and
organisations, along with establishing new relationships with national
organisations.
