I would like to take the opportunity to respond to Mr Flounders’ letter regarding the state of Longbridge in Newtown.

Indeed I share his frustrations and that of many of our residents that we face such difficulties in seeking to renovate our bridge especially as it approaches an historic anniversary. 

It was with this anniversary in mind as a focal point that i took on the role of lead councillor for this project for the Town Council.

Firstly, I would like to make clear that the bridge is maintained by Powys County Council who when I approached them about “repair and renovation” advised that the bridge was in a good state of repair and that no funds were available for renovation. 

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Secondly the town council has an on-going project entitled “ discuss with Powys CC and investigate additional funding for the repair and renovation of Long Bridge”.

I am the lead councillor for this project which is overseen by the Strategy and Corporate Projects committee where progress is monitored and discussed.

Members of the public are able to attend and participate at the monthly committee meetings if they so wish or can follow progress through the published minutes together with relevant papers.

From the Town Council perspective, the role is very much one of trying to influence and investigate funding because as i said the bridge is maintained by Powys County Council.

In summary we have discussed the project with the relevant officers from PCC only to be told that the bridge is safe and there are no funds available for renovation. 

Following this we discussed the renovation element of this project with the National Lottery Community Fund and are now seeking to enter further discussions with the National Lottery Heritage Fund which may be a more appropriate fit for the project to establish if there are opportunities for funding available to us.

Hopefully I have been able to explain the distinction between Town and County Council responsibilities and provide a summary of the current position. 
I would like to assure Mr Flounders and all our residents that work has been and continues to be undertaken at town council and Long Bridge has not been forgotten. 

I cannot make any promises on outcomes but I can assure residents that we will continue to pursue opportunities for funding as well as continually reminding PCC of the need to at least keep the bridge weed free and tidy as that’s the minimum our town deserves.
Councillor Pete Lewington
Newtown West Ward