A MOTION to try and turnaround the fortunes of one of Powys’ biggest towns was backed by councillors at a Powys County Council, full meeting.

In recent weeks Ystradgynlais was included in a report by the independent research organisation Centre for Towns.

A report published by them showed the town came 11th throughout the whole of England and Wales when it comes to absolute deprivation and economic wellbeing.

The report  looked at what could be done to help these towns recover from their past issues and coronavirus.

At the meeting Cllr Huw Williams (Labour) spoke for his home town. He said: “I recognise that all towns in Powys have suffered during the lockdown period.

“This motion is not asking for any disinvestment or less support or appreciation of the difficulties experienced by all communities in Powys.

“It does ask for a task and finish group to be set up of councillors, officers and local stakeholders to address specific issues.”

“These issues were highlighted in a recent report and focusses on where the impact of Covid-19 is most likely to be felt.”

Cllr Williams added: “Ystrad was already recognised in the Wales index for multiple deprivation, it’s a damning report and I’m a bit ashamed.

“It’s a proud former coal mining valley community, I’m proud of my roots, but  how have we got here?”

“There are inherent post-industrial issues in this area and we need to put in place clearly defined and measurable plans to tackle continued deprivation and health inequalities.”

Cllr Sandra Davies (Labour) who represents nearby Cwm-Twrch, said: “Ystradgynlais is a beautiful town that’s deeply entrenched in history, but it has been neglected.

“It’s about working proactively to pull the town back up by it’s roots.”

She pointed out that the community would pull together as it had done to for the Wales in Bloom competition, where Ystradgynlais won the town section in 2018.

“We need to put it back on the map and make it great again, said Cllr Davies.”

Cllr Ange Williams, (Knighton – Action for Powys), said: “Powys needs to prove we are the caring and great community we all like to think we are.”

Portfolio holder for Economic Development, Housing and Regulatory Services James Evans (Gwenryfed – Conservative) said: “I fully sympathise and I have had the chance to read this report and it’s deeply disappointing that there are 10 other towns across Wales on that list.

“It shows the massive amount of work needed across Wales to improve the economy.

“I’m happy to come down to Ystradgynlais and work with you, the town, community and businesses to try and improve things and see what we can do.”

The motion was approved by 35 votes for, seven against and five abstentions.