NEIL Hamilton, AM for Mid & West Wales, and Leader of UKIP Wales, is calling on residents in Llanelli, to have their say on new plans which could help boost the town centre. People living in the town are being asked for their views on a new Local Development Order, a first for Carmarthenshire, which would see a more streamlined planning process, making it easier for developers to take over empty shops or buildings.
Mr Hamilton said: “I am fully behind this move. It is vitally important that local authorities are supported as they try to attract more investment to the area and help existing businesses. “Anything which makes it easier for developers or applicants to take over empty buildings or shops will be a great boost for Llanelli town centre and should be supported. “I am a great believer in encouraging people to ‘Shop Local’ and, by easing planning restrictions, we should see more traders coming into the town, which will definitely help to boost the local economy.
“I would urge local people in Llanelli, to make their views known loud and clear during the consultation period and, in turn, help improve and regenerate their town.”
Consultation starts on December 18 and runs until February 9, and the views will help form the council’s decision on whether or not to adopt the LDO. Introducing the order into the centre would also remove the need for developers or applicants to make a formal planning application for specified types of change of use.
The survey is available online at i-Local, and hard copies are available from Llanelli Library.
The council’s executive board member responsible for planning, Cllr Mair Stephens said: “The development of this order has been in conjunction with the Llanelli Town Centre Taskforce as well as town and rural councils. Adopting this order would make it easier for developers to move forwards with their plans in Llanelli Town Centre.”
Bringing empty shops back into use is one of the key priorities set out by the Llanelli Town Centre Taskforce, led by Cllr Emlyn Dole, Leader of Carmarthenshire County Council. The Taskforce aims to stimulate growth and investment by supporting traders, boosting business and increasing footfall.
