Green space to be improved in Monmouth

Plans to enhance the riverside by the historic Monnow Bridge and improve basic infrastructure in Monmouth are under way. 

The project is a partnership between Monmouthshire County Council and Monmouth Town Council and is funded by the Welsh Government Brilliant Basics scheme. The scheme aims to enable small scale tourism infrastructure improvements designed to improve the attractiveness of towns for visitors.

The project includes tree and wildflower planting, new picnic and park benches to enjoy the lovely riverside spot with its view of the iconic bridge, signage and a sculpture to create a more visual separation of the green space from the car park. In addition to the improvements to the open space, new “smart” litter bins will be installed on Monnow Street and other key locations.

The popular green space on the old cattle market beside the Old Monnow Bridge was selected for funding as this is the first and last impression that many visitors get of Monmouth. 

The sculpture being created by Newport community mosaic artist Stephanie Roberts will represent the need to protect our precious rivers and wildlife.

Monmouthshire County Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, Cllr Catrin Maby, said: ” This spot near Monnow Bridge is a popular area to sit and enjoy the river, and I am looking forward to seeing the wildflowers and trees and the new benches and sculpture. I am pleased also that we are making it easier for people to recycle when they are out and about, as well as at home. We have already achieved a good domestic recycling rate in Monmouthshire, and this is a good next step.”

Monmouth Town Council councillor, Cllr Jane Lucas said: “I’m excited by the plans for Blestium Street, and really looking forward for residents to be part of the project. The scheme will undoubtedly improve existing public space with wildflowers and trees. Residents in this popular and historic part of Monmouth will welcome more recycling bins.”