Development work to start in Neath

Kier Construction is to carry out the ambitious retail scheme which will see new shop units on the site of Neath’s now demolished former multi-storey car park to provide space for new independent and national retailers to complement those already trading in the town.

The alterations starting on Monday are enabling works which have to be carried out in advance of the retail development which will extend onto the recently constructed Wilko store.

At the moment, Water Street and Fairfield Way in Neath form a one way traffic route. 

The retail development will necessitate the stopping up of Fairfield way and alterations to Water Street to allow two way traffic.  A formal application to close Fairfield way has been submitted to the Welsh Government.

The highway alterations will include widening Water Street to accommodate two way traffic, the creation of a turning area on Water Street and the installation of traffic signals on the junction of Gnoll Park Road, Water Street and St David’s Street.    

The works will mean alterations to the existing parking arrangement on Water Street leading to the removal of the surface car park with alternative parking being available in the multi-storey carpark (the shopmobility unit within the carpark hires mobility scooters).

Access to residential properties and businesses on Water Street will be maintained.

Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd have been awarded the contract for the highway enabling works under the South West Wales Regional Civil Engineering Framework.  The works are due to commence on Monday 24th September 2018 and will last for 18 weeks.

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Streetscene and Engineering, Councillor Ted Latham said: “We apologise for any inconvenience which may be caused by these works but they are essential to prepare the way for the further re-development of Neath town centre.”

....... A copy and paste report from 'The Wave website' sent in by a reader: https://www.thewave.co.uk/news/local/neath-town-centre-road-works-due-to-start/

 Wales Online also report on this development.