A scheme to regenerate a key site within Neath town centre has taken a major step forward.  

Neath Port Talbot Council have signed a Development Agreement with Simons Developments to deliver the £80 million project.

A public consultation process will now be launched on Thursday 27th November for the local community and businesses to have their say on the exciting plans put forward by award winning Simons and Neath Port Talbot Council.

Simons will be sending consultation materials directly to identified representatives and organisations. The plans will also be on display at public exhibitions throughout the area.

Simons has also today launched a new dedicated website www.ntcproject.com to keep the local community informed during the public consultation on the Neath Town Centre Project.

Visitors to this website can sign up to receive email updates on the progress of the consultation.

The current list of direct consultees is available on the website and Simons is asking any groups who would like to be added to the list to let them know.

When consultation starts, members of the public will be able to click in and learn more about the plans for the regeneration of this key site within the town centre and send their feedback via an online form. For those who prefer other methods, a consultation document and feedback collection boxes will also be available at identified locations.

Derek Vaughan Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council said: "We want to know what the public and local businesses think about the proposals. No final decisions will be made until we've gathered everyone's views. I am really excited about these plans which will provide a tremendous boost to the town whilst retaining its unique historic character. So I would like as many people as possible to register in order to be kept fully informed of progress on this all important project."

Mark Newton, Simons Developments Director, said: "This is an exciting time for Neath town centre and we are confident that the people of Neath will share in our vision to regenerate this key site.

"What we are proposing is to bring a whole new shopping and leisure experience to the town centre, which in turn will attract more visitors from the surrounding areas."

He added: "We believe it is very important to keep the local community informed of our plans and we're looking forward to working with the people of Neath to deliver a scheme that everyone can be proud of."