Funding secured for Cynon Valley Development Trust study

Cynon Valley MP Beth Winter has announced that funding has been secured for a study into the idea of a Development Trust in the valley.

The idea of a Development Trust ‘to stimulate community-based enterprises’ was a recommendation in the research into the Cynon Valley economy commissioned by Beth Winter and delivered by the Bevan Foundation.

That recommendation has now moved a step closer to reality as Welsh Government are funding a feasibility study into the Development Trust.

The Trust would be tasked with exploring ways of building community wealth in the Cynon Valley.

Speaking about the news, Winter said, “The Cynon Valley Economy research I commissioned from the Bevan Foundation was full of useful recommendations, but there is no point having lots of brilliant recommendations sitting on a shelf.”

“The hard work has started since we received the report back, as we work to turn recommendations into action.”

Chair of the Cynon Development Trust Task & Finish group Barbara Castle said, “I am delighted that the recommendation to set up a Development Trust has taken a huge step forward here, with Welsh Government agreeing to fund the feasibility study.”

“There are lots of amazing social enterprises in Cynon Valley, and much more could be achieved with active support from a development trust.”