Regeneration of the former docks and Barry Island holiday resort


As part of a major urban regeneration initiative led by the Welsh Development Agency, the Barry project covers both the former docks area (once Britain’s foremost coal exporting port) and Barry Island holiday resort, immediately adjacent. An integral part of the regeneration initiative has been the setting up of a heritage steam attraction, the Vale of Glamorgan Railway, which supports the aims of the wider regeneration project by: providing a new visitor attraction for Barry Island; a public transport link within the regeneration area; a focus for skills training; and preserving an important part of the town’s heritage.

The Environmental Enhancement Strategy for Barry Island Railway Heritage Centre is concerned with the principal station and servicing facilities of the railway. Proposals are founded on a detailed understanding of the historic background, rigorous assessment of the site and technical constraints, together with consultation with stakeholder parties. An overall masterplan for the whole site is backed by detailed proposals for reorganisation of the station building, improvement of access and platform areas and options for the future development.