00:01Barry's waterfront regeneration plans have taken a hit, with confirmation that the proposed marina, originally a key part of the Making Waves project, looks in doubt after major funding partners pull out.
00:12The Making Waves scheme is a multi-million pound plan to transform Barry Docks and the surrounding area, part funded by the UK Government's Leveling Up initiative.
00:20It aims to revitalise the town's waterfront, create new opportunities for leisure, housing and business, and support long-term economic growth.
00:28But this week, Associated British Ports ABP, who own the site, said the marina element is no longer financially viable due to rising operational costs.
00:37Despite the setback, the Vale of Glamorgan Council say that the project remains deliverable, just in a slightly different form.
00:43They're now seeking an agreement from the UK Government to proceed without the marina.
00:47Council leader Liz Burnett described the news as a setback, but says that there's still plenty to be optimistic about and will continue the plans without the marina component.
00:56The revised plans will still include a new water sports centre at the Mole, run jointly by the Ocean Water Sports Trust and Cardiff and Bale College.
01:04Leisure use on the water will continue to be a central part of the plans moving forward.
01:08A new public park is also planned, along with new homes and the redevelopment of the historic dock office into a business space for start-ups and small enterprises.
01:17Also, the council says wider regeneration across Barrie is gathering pace, with a new college campus planned for the waterfront, a restaurant development at Nels Point and the final stage of secondary school redevelopment now underway at St. Richard Gwynne High School.
01:31Despite losing the marina, the council says its ambitions for Barrie remain unchanged and that making waves will still deliver major improvements for residents, visitors and the local economy.
01:41Jane Peach Watkins reporting for Local TV.
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