24‑hour gym approved for former Wilko unit in Port Talbot’s Aberafan Shopping Centre

The first‑floor unit has been empty since Wilko collapsed in 2023. Now it’s been given a new lease of life, with planning officers signing off proposals from the Foundry Gym franchise.

Vacant Wilko space to become flagship Welsh site

The application, submitted last September, says the franchise wants to create a “thriving 24‑hour fitness facility” that boosts footfall and brings new life into the shopping centre.

Foundry Gym operates around 20 sites across the UK and describes the Port Talbot location as its flagship for Wales. Planning documents confirm the gym will operate entirely within the existing unit, with no external changes to the building.

Boost arrives as Aberafan Shopping Centre celebrates its 50th anniversary

The approval lands at a symbolic moment for Aberafan Shopping Centre, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

The centre — officially opened by Princess Anne in 1976 — remains a major community hub and the town’s main shopping destination. Anniversary celebrations run from 9 February to 30 September, with the official launch taking place on 20 February in Centre Square.

VIP guests, dignitaries, former managers and staff will gather to unveil a new exhibition charting the centre’s history, including photographs, memorabilia and a look at how the site has evolved over five decades. Elton John Tribute Wales will perform at 12.30pm and 2pm as part of the launch event.

The exhibition will continue to grow throughout the year, with new historic strands and interactive elements added over time.

A new chapter for a key town‑centre site

The arrival of a 24‑hour gym is expected to bring fresh activity into the centre as it marks its milestone year. The former Wilko unit has been one of the largest empty spaces in the building since the retailer’s collapse.

With the gym now approved, work is expected to begin on fitting out the unit ahead of opening later this year.

Major revamp planned for Sandfields and Aberavon as council unveils huge active travel upgrade

The £multi‑million scheme covers a 4.7km stretch linking the seafront with Afan Way, creating a continuous loop designed to make everyday journeys safer and easier without needing a car. Council officers say the project will tie directly into the wider Aberavon Seafront Masterplan, bringing long‑term improvements to some of the area’s busiest routes.

The plans include upgraded footways, new cycle lanes, safer crossings, resurfaced roads, better bus facilities and a series of public‑realm makeovers at key community hotspots. A consultation has now opened, with residents given until 11th March to give feedback.

The council says the work is vital in a community where official data shows fewer than half of households own a car, making safe walking and cycling routes essential for school runs, shopping trips and access to the beach.

Years in the making

The project has been in development since 2022, when a study identified ten Sandfields routes in need of upgrades. Early engagement followed in 2024, with residents helping shape the first designs for three priority corridors: Princess Margaret Way, Victoria Road and the Seaway Parade–Handel Avenue–Purcell Avenue loop.

By 2025, the scheme had expanded to include placemaking improvements around Memo Beach Café, the skate park, Tywyn Primary School and Purcell Avenue, with drop‑in sessions held last autumn to gather ideas. Detailed designs are now nearing completion, and the council is preparing a funding bid through the Regional Transport Fund to begin construction in 2026–27.

What’s planned on the ground

If approved, the scheme will deliver new and widened footways, resurfaced pavements and missing links such as the broken section near the Naval Club. Dedicated cycle lanes are proposed for Princess Margaret Way, with on‑road routes added to nearby residential streets to create a safer network.

Eight new Toucan crossings and five new Parallel crossings are planned for some of the area’s busiest junctions, alongside more than 50 upgraded uncontrolled crossings with dropped kerbs and tactile paving. Bus users would see new shelters and a relocated stop opposite Remo’s to support revised routes along the seafront.

Public spaces are also set for a facelift, with new seating, planting, surfacing and landscaping around Memo Beach, the skate park and Tywyn Primary School. Additional greenery and pocket planting would be added throughout the area to soften the streetscape.

Parking changes include new loading bays near Francos and Memo Café, extra disabled bays and a small net increase in overall parking along the seafront. Measures to stop pavement parking — including bollards, planting and double yellow lines — are also proposed.

Princess Margaret Way would be fully resurfaced as part of the works.

“A good balance of improvements for everyone”

Cllr Wyndham Griffiths, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Transport and Connectivity, said the plans strike the right balance for a community with low car ownership but high demand for safer routes.

“I strongly encourage anyone who lives in or visits these areas to have their say on the proposals which would offer improved safety and better‑connected routes, whilst also lifting the overall appearance,” he said.

How to take part

The consultation runs until 11th March 2026, with residents able to complete the survey at www.npt.gov.uk/activetravel.

Two face‑to‑face drop‑in events will be held at Aberavon Leisure Centre on Monday 2nd March (3pm–7pm) and Saturday 7th March (10am–1pm), where the project team will be available to answer questions.

Paper copies of the plans and survey are available at Sandfields, Port Talbot and Neath libraries.

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Bulldozers move in: Aberavon’s 1950s seafront flats set for dramatic revamp

Aberavon’s ageing seafront flats — built in the 1950s and long seen as a drab backdrop to the beach — are set for a major shake‑up. Housing association Tai Tarian has unveiled plans to bulldoze part of Carmarthen House and replace it with sleek new apartment blocks, delivering more than 100 fresh homes in the process.

Landmark new blocks on the seafront

At the heart of the scheme are two bold new buildings. A six‑storey block, known as Block G, will rise up facing the beach, bringing 33 modern flats with balconies overlooking the bay. Next to it, a stepped five‑storey block called Block H will add another 58 homes, including larger family‑sized apartments. Smaller infill blocks at the northern end of the site will create ten compact one‑bed flats, helping meet demand for affordable housing.

Old concrete given a new lease of life

The existing Cardigan House, Coronation House and the remaining section of Carmarthen House won’t be left behind. Each will be stripped back and given a full facelift, with new cladding, insulation, windows and eco‑friendly heating systems. Tai Tarian says the upgrades will transform the tired 1950s blocks into energy‑efficient homes fit for the future.

Greener living for residents

Gas boilers will be ripped out and replaced with air source heat pumps, while solar panels will be fitted to the new builds. Residents will benefit from cycle stores, scooter bays and landscaped green spaces, with trees, wildflower areas and nesting boxes for birds and bats turning the grey concrete estate into a greener, more welcoming place to live.

Affordable homes for local families

Every single unit will be let at social rent, managed by Tai Tarian. The association says the project will deliver modern, energy‑efficient homes while keeping rents affordable for local people.

The revamp follows the success of Phase I, which saw six blocks refurbished and extended. Together, the two phases represent one of the biggest housing investments in Port Talbot in decades — and a striking new look for Aberavon’s tired seafront skyline.

What happens next

The plans are currently out for statutory pre‑application consultation via Asbri Planning and will later go before Neath Port Talbot Council planners for formal approval.

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Senedd pays tribute to Richard Burton on centenary of his birth

Aberavon MS David Rees led the commemoration, describing Burton as a trailblazer for aspiring actors, an inspiration to people across Wales, and a global icon whose legacy continues to resonate.

“On 10 November, 1925, Richard Walter Jenkins Jr was born in his family home in Pontrhydyfen,” Mr Rees told Members. “His father was a miner. His mother worked in the local pub, the Miners Arms. As the 12th of 13 siblings, he grew up in a Welsh‑speaking household until his mother, Edith, died tragically when he was just two.”

Burton was raised by his sister Cecilia and her husband in Taibach, in a community shaped by coal, steel and chapel life. His talent was spotted at Port Talbot Secondary School by teacher Philip Burton, who became his mentor and whose surname Richard later adopted.

“Richard’s two passions were acting and rugby, and it was the former in which he truly excelled,” Mr Rees said. “Performing in local plays and eisteddfodau, he developed his acting skills and built a strong reputation. Following his time at Oxford University, he began a professional career on stage across the UK before moving into film, where the world became aware of his talent.”

Burton went on to become one of the most recognisable actors of his generation, nominated for an Oscar seven times and starring in films including Cleopatra, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and The Spy Who Came in from the Cold.

Despite his international fame, Mr Rees said Burton remained deeply connected to his roots.

“He retained strong links with Port Talbot, proudly promoting his Welsh identity internationally and returning regularly to Pontrhydyfen – the one place where he felt he truly belonged,” he said.

Marking the centenary, Mr Rees told the Senedd it was fitting to honour Burton’s achievements and his pride in being Welsh.

“Richard would have been 100 this week, but he sadly died well before his time at the age of just 58. A short life, but a great legacy. We will never forget that talent or that voice – and what a memorable voice. Thank you for everything, Richard.”

#aberavon #actor #davidReesMs #film #pontrhydyfen #portTalbot #richardBurton #richardBurtonCentenary #senedd #taibach

‘Mental Elf’ 5k fun run brings festive cheer to Aberavon Seafront

Festive fun with a serious purpose

The charity event takes place on Sunday 7 December, inviting people of all ages and abilities to walk, jog or run along the seafront.

Organisers say the Mental Elf run combines Christmas fancy dress with the importance of mental health, encouraging participants to don elf outfits, get active and support local services.

The event is part of a nationwide series of more than 50 Mental Elf runs organised by local Mind charities across England and Wales.

‘Exercise is a natural stress‑buster’

Will Price, NPT Mind’s Physical Activity Lead, said:

“Running or walking can help us switch off from everyday pressures, relieve stress and give us time to clear our heads. When you exercise, you release ‘feel good’ hormones which can help reduce negative feelings and improve your mood.”

He added that the festive 5k was “a great opportunity to boost your mental and physical health while also raising vital funds to make sure everyone in Neath Port Talbot with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.”

Call for sponsors and volunteers

NPT Mind is also appealing for local businesses to sponsor the event and for volunteers to help on the day.

Tickets are available online at npt‑mental‑elf‑2025.raiselysite.com.

#5kRun #Aberavon #AberavonSeafront #Charity #funRun #fundraising #MentalElf #mentalHealth #MindCymru

Sixteen Neath Port Talbot playgrounds branded unsafe and set for £2.5m overhaul

An independent inspection of all 48 council‑run play areas found 16 sites in the worst two categories, with equipment described as “generally poor” or “end of life”. Councillors were told that without investment, some of the playgrounds would have to close.

The findings prompted Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet to approve a £2.5 million, three‑year programme to replace or repair the sites.

From climbing frames to closure risk

The inspection, carried out by the Play Inspection Company, graded each playground from “new” to “end of life”. While many were found to be in good condition, others were described as requiring full refurbishment.

Among those in the worst shape are Aberavon Toddler Play Area, Grahams Terrace and Jersey Park, all placed in Group 4 — older sites where most of the equipment is in poor condition. A further five sites, including Sunny Crescent, Victoria Park and Vivian Park, were classed as Group 5 — at the end of their life and in need of complete replacement.

Eight more, such as Baglan Park, Bryn Park and Pen y Dre in Neath, were flagged as ageing with significant repair needs.

🛝 Playgrounds flagged as needing urgent work

Group 5 – End of life, full refurbishment required
• Coed Hirwaun MUGA
• Sunny Crescent
• Victoria Park
• Vivian Park Play Area, MUGA & Goal Posts
• Ynyscorrwg Goal Posts

Group 4 – Older sites, generally poor condition
• Aberavon Toddler Play Area
• Grahams Terrace
• Jersey Park

Group 3 – Ageing sites with significant repair needs
• Baglan Park Play Area, Trim Trail & MUGA
• Bowen Street
• Bryn Park Play Area, Skate & MUGA
• Cross Street
• Evans Road
• Fire Station / The Refresh
• Ger yr Afon
• Heol y Coed Cae
• Llwyn Road
• Oakwood (Pontrhydyfen)
• Parc y Werin Play Area & MUGA
• Pen y Dre (Neath)
• Wellfield Square

Refurbished yesterday, condemned today

What will surprise many residents is that some of the playgrounds now deemed “poor” have only recently been refurbished. Vivian Park in Sandfields, for example, had upgrades in 2019 and again in 2022, yet inspectors now say the site is at the end of its life. Victoria Gardens in Neath town centre also received a £22,000 upgrade in 2023, but still appears in the council’s list of sites needing urgent work.

The findings raise questions about the durability of past refurbishments and whether some upgrades were only partial, leaving equipment still vulnerable to wear and tear.

“We cannot allow closures”

Cllr Simon Knoyle, cabinet member for finance, said the council had little choice but to act:

“These 16 playgrounds require significant repair or full refurbishment in the next 12 to 36 months. Without investment, these facilities risk closure on safety grounds — this is simply something we cannot allow to happen.”

Cllr Scott Jones, who oversees streetscene services, said the programme was about more than just new swings and slides:

“Playgrounds are essential community resources. This programme will make sure families have safe, modern places for children to play.”

What families can expect

The £2.5m programme will be rolled out over three years, with the worst‑affected sites prioritised first. The decision is subject to a short call‑in period before contracts can be awarded.

For families, it means some playgrounds could be fenced off while work takes place — but the council insists the long‑term result will be safer, modern play areas across the county.

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Revamped sports courts boost community access across South West Wales

A Welsh Government-backed initiative is transforming outdated tennis courts into modern basketball and netball spaces across South West Wales, with new facilities already open in Maesteg, Port Talbot, Cwmafan and Haverfordwest.

The upgrades are part of Sport Wales’s Court Collaboration Fund, which has invested over £1.4 million since 2022 to improve sports infrastructure in 12 local authorities. The fund supports the Welsh Government’s wider £41 million commitment to community and elite sports facilities, including £10.1 million earmarked for 2025–26.

Local impact: Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot and Pembrokeshire

Two newly refurbished courts opened this week at Maesteg Welfare Park in Bridgend County, converting former tennis courts into vibrant basketball and netball zones with multi-coloured surfacing, line markings and new court furniture.

In Neath Port Talbot, recent investments have upgraded courts at Port Talbot Memorial Park (£73,745), Parc y Llyn in Cwmafan (£77,384), and Ystalyfera (£121,182), creating inclusive spaces for team sports and youth engagement.

Pembrokeshire has also benefited, with £12,501 allocated to Ysgol Caer Elen in Haverfordwest to support court transformation and expand local access to basketball and netball.

Jack Sargeant, Minister for Sport, said: “The Court Collaboration Fund exemplifies how working together strategically to invest in the right facilities in the right places can maximise the impact for local communities. They’re more than courts — they’re catalysts for community cohesion, youth development and improved wellbeing.”

He added: “With the £10 million allocated for sports infrastructure, we’re building the foundation for a healthier, more active Wales where geography and background are no barrier to sporting participation.”

Supporting grassroots sport

The refurbished courts are designed to increase participation, enable coaching programmes, and support new teams. Governing bodies are working with schools and community groups to embed sport into daily life and ensure facilities are accessible to all.

Other funded sites include Caedu Park in Ogmore Vale (£84,750), further strengthening Bridgend’s multi-sport offering, and several locations across Monmouthshire, Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent.

The Court Collaboration Fund continues to support projects that repurpose underused spaces and promote inclusive, team-based physical activity across Wales.

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Port Talbot men banned from handling waste after repeated fly‑tipping offences

Swansea Magistrates’ Court imposed Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBOs) on Michael Joseph Quilligan, 22, of Western Avenue, Sandfields, and Steven Gilheaney, 26, of Radnor House, Sandfields, when they appeared in court on Thursday, 18 September.

Both men were handed 16‑week jail terms, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay £1,465 in prosecution costs each, along with a £154 victim surcharge. They must also complete a 15‑day rehabilitation programme under the Probation Service.

Pattern of dumping

The court heard the pair had been linked to several incidents of illegal dumping, including large amounts of household, construction and garden waste abandoned at sites in Sandfields, Margam and Aberavon between 2023 and early 2025.

Investigations by Neath Port Talbot Council’s Waste Enforcement Team found the men had been paid to remove waste from businesses and private addresses, but instead of disposing of it legally, they dumped it on disused land.

Court order

The two‑year CBO prevents Quilligan and Gilheaney from collecting or transporting waste anywhere in Neath Port Talbot, unless employed by a licensed scrap metal business. Breaching the order could result in further prosecution and prison sentences.

Council response

Cllr Scott Jones, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Streetscene, said:

“I want to congratulate our Waste Enforcement Team for yet again bringing before the courts those who seriously damage our environment by dumping waste. It’s clear the courts are taking these offences seriously with the sentences, fines and Criminal Behaviour Order imposed in this case.”

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Headteacher who attacked deputy with wrench released from prison after four months

The Prison Service confirmed that 54-year-old Anthony John Felton from Gorseinon, was freed this month under the Home Detention Curfew Scheme, meaning he will be subject to strict licence conditions and an electronically monitored curfew.

Felton was sentenced at Swansea Crown Court in April to two years and four months in prison after admitting attempted grievous bodily harm with intent. The attack on Deputy Headteacher Richard Pyke at St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Comprehensive School in Aberavon was captured on CCTV and described in court as a sustained assault from behind.

The incident happened on 5 March this year in Mr Pyke’s office. Felton, who had been appointed headteacher of the 900‑pupil school in March 2023 after more than two decades on staff, brought a wrench into the room and struck his colleague several times while he was seated at his desk.

The court heard Felton had recently discovered he was the father of a fellow teacher’s child and had learned Mr Pyke was in a relationship with the same teacher. In a victim impact statement, Mr Pyke said he had trusted Felton completely before the attack, which left him with minor injuries requiring hospital treatment.

Following the assault, Felton threw the wrench away, drove off, and emailed all staff apologising “for the problems and distress” his actions would cause. Police later released CCTV footage showing the moment of the attack.

At sentencing, Judge Paul Thomas KC said the seriousness of the offence, particularly in a school setting, meant only a custodial sentence was appropriate. Detective Sergeant Simon Davies described the incident as “an alarming ordeal” for staff, pupils, and the wider school community3.

A Prison Service spokesperson said:

“Offenders released on Home Detention Curfew are subject to strict conditions and must be tagged. If they break the rules they will be sent back to prison.”

It is understood the decision to release Felton early was made by the prison governor.

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