Powys Wins £300,000 Funding for 16 Tourism Projects Under Brilliant Basics Scheme

Daniel Bevan - Senior Journalist

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Sixteen tourism projects across Powys are set to benefit from nearly £300,000 in funding aimed at improving visitor experiences and supporting local communities.

The funding, secured by Powys County Council through the Welsh Government’s Brilliant Basics programme, will cover 80% of project costs, with local organisations contributing the remaining 20% and investing £75,000. All projects must be completed by March 2027.

Initiatives range from walking trails and picnic areas to improved signage, access, and eco-friendly facilities. Highlights include a new 3.5-mile Dragon Trail in Rhayader, solar-powered upgrades to Machynlleth’s public toilets, and enhanced accessibility at Llanfyllin Wetlands and Presteigne’s Went’s Meadow. Newtown Town Council will redevelop Newtown Castle Motte, while Hay-on-Wye will receive new heritage signage and interactive QR code-linked guides.

Councillor James Gibson-Watt, Powys County Council’s Cabinet Member for a More Prosperous Powys, said: “Priority areas for this funding round included alleviating pressures at tourism ‘hot spots’, promoting environmentally sustainable destinations, enhancing accessibility, and improving the overall visitor experience, and we believe the projects we are supporting meet these aims. Tourism is very important to the Powys economy, and we are very grateful to Welsh Government for awarding us the maximum amount available: £300,000.”

The Welsh Government is investing £5 million in the Brilliant Basics programme over the next two years. The scheme is designed to support infrastructure improvements that make tourism more sustainable and accessible.

Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, said: “Tourism is a vital part of the Welsh economy, but we recognise that increased visitor numbers can sometimes put pressure on local infrastructure, particularly in popular destinations. This funding will help address these challenges while supporting our commitment to sustainable, inclusive tourism.

“By investing in these basic but essential facilities, we are not only enhancing the visitor experience but also supporting local communities and protecting our natural environment for generations to come.”