Money is to be sunk into part of Aberavon beach to make it more attractive to visitors.
Aberavon Beach
Close-on £500,000 will be spent on the sunken gardens, with the first phase starting this autumn after the council secured a £135,368 European grant.
The gardens will be upgraded with new paths, ramps and steps as well as walls, benches, waste bins and landscaping.
A highlight will be a shingle beach garden feature, complete with grass terracing.
The scheme has been designed by Anthony Jellard Associates and work is expected to be completed by next spring.
Council leader Ali Thomas said: "The council is delighted to receive this cash boost for Aberavon seafront.
"Thanks must go to Visit Wales and the Welsh Government for their support.
"Aberavon beach has recently retained the Blue Flag Award and this grant will pave the way for the next phase of regeneration.
"There are plans in the pipeline for a toddler's play area, a seafront shelter, additional lighting and more public toilets when funds become available.
"The seafront gardens have been in existence since the 1950s and are in need of an upgrade. We want to turn this area into one of the finest seafront garden areas in South Wales.
"These improvements will not only bring more visitors to Aberavon beach but draw in more investment as well.
"Regeneration opportunities make a big difference to the local economy and bring new employment to the area."
The overall cost is £450,000, with the council looking for funds for future phases.
Deputy minister for European programmes Alun Davies said: "The plans for the sunken gardens at Aberavon beach are very exciting and I'm delighted that European funding is helping to give this attraction a new lease of life.
"Once completed, the gardens will add to the appeal of the area for visitors and residents alike.
"This is a part of the Green Sea programme for South West Wales which supports the development of coastal infrastructure to enhance visitor experiences and facilities."
South Wales Evening Post - Friday, 5 August ,2011
