Delivering Social Value Through the Pontneddfechan Visitor Infrastructure Project
At Neath Port Talbot Council, we are committed to ensuring that public sector investment delivers lasting benefits for our communities. Through our procurement processes, we work with contractors to create social value by supporting local businesses, developing skills, creating employment opportunities and contributing to community well-being.
A great example of this is the £7.5 million visitor infrastructure project at the gateway to the Pontneddfechan Waterfall Trails, delivered by Andrew Scott Ltd.
Funded through the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, the project was designed to enhance visitor facilities, improve the tourism offer and help manage rural visitor congestion. Alongside these physical improvements, the project generated a wide range of community benefits across Neath Port Talbot.
Investing in Jobs and Skills
The project delivered significant employment and training opportunities, including:
- 531 training weeks delivered throughout the contract
- 19 apprenticeships supported
- 4 new entrant starters, including 3 individuals previously experiencing long-term unemployment
- 14 work experience placements for local residents
- Support for 2 graduates and 6 trainees
Supporting the Welsh Supply Chain
The project also provided opportunities for local businesses, with:
- 97% of contracts awarded to businesses based in Wales
Inspiring Future Careers
A strong focus was placed on engaging young people and promoting careers in construction, engineering and related industries.
- 1,125 pupils participated in STEM activities across Neath Port Talbot.
- Engagement activities were delivered with a number of local schools and organisations, including Dŵr y Felin School, Ysgol Gymraeg Cwm Nedd, Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera, Cwmtawe Community School, Tyle’r Ynn Primary School, Alderman Davies Church in Wales Primary School, NPT College and NPT Employability.
Activities included careers fairs, STEM workshops, enrichment events and mock interviews, helping young people develop skills and gain insight into future career opportunities.
Supporting Local Communities
The project team also made a positive contribution to community organisations and local facilities, including:
- Providing the use of a generator for Resolven Carnival
- Donating and installing a replacement polytunnel at Ysgol Gymraeg Cwm Nedd
- Supplying and installing planters for the school
- Supporting Pontneddfechan Village Hall through labour and materials to improve the car park, as well as providing refreshments for community groups
- Donating 10 balance bikes to local pupils
Sustainable Construction in Practice
Environmental sustainability was another key outcome of the project, with 260 tonnes of waste diverted from landfill through reuse and recycling initiatives
Creating Lasting Benefits
The Pontneddfechan Visitor Infrastructure Project demonstrates how investment in infrastructure can deliver benefits that extend far beyond the construction phase. Through skills development, employment opportunities, support for local businesses, community engagement and environmental improvements, the project has helped create a positive and lasting impact for residents, businesses and communities across Neath Port Talbot.
