Brilliant Basics delivering memorable experiences

To help organisations plan ahead for future years, Brilliant Basics is a new Wales wide fund supporting public, third sector and not for profit organisations to deliver basic small scale tourism infrastructure improvements.  

26 projects have been successful in their funding applications for the £2.4 million fund for 2021-2022. 

Small scale tourism infrastructure projects were supported from local authorities, national parks and the third sector and - all helping to ensure that all visitors to Wales have a positive and memorable experience throughout their stay.

The projects include electric vehicle charging points, improved toilet and car parking facilities, accessible Changing Places facilities and improved signage and interpretation panels - and a waterfall swing.

Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething, said: “Following the busy summer we’ve had here in Wales, we’ve seen the important part that local tourism amenities have on making a trip a memorable one.  These facilities often go unnoticed but they are an important part of people’s experiences when they visit Wales and they also benefit those who live in the area.  I’m delighted that we’re able to support these organisations to improve the visitor experience in their areas.”

A modern ‘changing place’ with facilities for people with disabilities, refurbished public toilets and access improvements are on their way to the Aberavon Seafront’s popular Aqua Splash attraction.

Cllr Annette Wingrave, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Sustainable Development, said: “It is intended that once the works are complete, the public toilet provision and changing place at this location will not be subject to seasonal opening and will be open to the public all year. This will ensure the Aberavon Seafront remains a destination which is accessible to disabled visitors and their families all year round.”

A Changing Places Unit will also be a priority for Welsh Water as part of a project to develop a Cycle Hub at their Elan Valley Site. Welsh Water have also be awarded funding for the development of Waterfall Swing and water Artistry at Llyn Brenig.  The Waterfall Swing uses hundreds of downward jets of water to create a controllable waterfall effect which incorporates swings and can also be adapted to take users with limited mobility, including wheelchairs.  Welsh Water will also develop outdoor adventures for all at Lliw Reservoirs with access and car park improvements, activity station and nature trail sheets as well as installation of natural play equipment.

Welsh Water Chief Executive, Peter Perry said “Due to the popularity of this summer’s staycation, we have seen increased visitor pressures at a number of our visitor attractions and local beauty spots.  So we’re hugely grateful to Welsh Government for the valuable support, which will help us to improve facilities and provide more inclusive experiences for visitors of all ages and abilities.