Carmarthenshire County Council is calling on property owners and businesses to apply for financial support aimed at converting vacant town centre buildings into vibrant commercial spaces. Two distinct schemes are available to revitalise local high streets across the region.
Two Funding Schemes Available
The Capital Development Fund supports projects within the Ten Towns areas, while the Town Centre Vibrancy Fund focuses on the primary towns of Ammanford, Carmarthen, and Llanelli. Both schemes are backed by the Welsh Government through the UK Local Growth Fund in Wales. The Town Centre Vibrancy Fund, specifically funded by the UK Government Local Growth Fund and the local council, targets bringing ground-floor empty properties back into use.
Eligibility and Requirements
Funding can be claimed by property owners and leaseholders who have a minimum lease requirement of seven years from the date of final payment. Landlords wishing to let out a building must have a pre-let agreement with a commercial tenant in place before submitting a full application. Applicants seeking funding for council-owned buildings must agree to a minimum seven-year lease and consult the property department first.
No Fixed Deadline but Urgency Advised
There is no fixed deadline to apply, but applicants are urged to come forward quickly so projects can be completed within the current financial year. The funds have already supported several successful projects, including the transformation of Ty Glo in Laugharne. Developments have also been completed in Newcastle Emlyn, such as the Emlyn Kitchens project, finished around 18 months ago.
Expected Impact and Council Support
The council hopes the schemes will increase footfall, support local independent businesses, and improve the overall appeal of the high street. Carmarthenshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, Councillor Hazel Evans, said: "Bringing empty buildings back into use is vital for the future of our town centres. These funding opportunities provide a valuable chance for property owners and businesses to invest in their communities while supporting economic growth across Carmarthenshire. We’ve already seen some excellent examples of what can be achieved through these funds, and we would encourage anyone with a suitable project to come forward as soon as possible."
For more information, visit the Carmarthenshire County Council website.
