Who we are

Who We Are

Open Newtown is a not-for-profit social enterprise and community land trust, registered as Going Green for a Living Community Land Trust Ltd and trading as Open Newtown. Founded in 2017, we are dedicated to the sustainable management of approximately 130 acres of public green space in Newtown, Powys. Our mission is to create opportunities for people and enterprises through nature, ensuring environmental, social, and economic benefits for the community.

The parklands under our stewardship include:

• Town Hall Grounds
• Dolerw Park
• Trehafren Fields
• Trehafren Hill
• Vaynor Fields
• The green belt between Maesydail and Mochre Industrial Estate

Our primary responsibilities involve grass cutting, tree maintenance, and waste management across these areas. While we enhance and care for these natural spaces, we are not responsible for infrastructure such as bridges or play parks.

To view a map of Open Newtown’s boundaries please click here (opens in a new window).

Our Story

Our journey began with the 2015 Newtown Community Led Action Plan, which highlighted the importance of protecting and enhancing the town’s green spaces. Building on this foundation, Open Newtown was formed to ensure these spaces are sustainably managed for public benefit. This effort was made possible through a 99-year lease agreement with Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council in 2019, and a grant from The National Lottery Community Fund Wales.

Over the years, we have transformed Newtown’s green spaces into a hub of community engagement, well-being, and recreation, with landmark developments like Hafan Yr Afon, our community and visitor centre. This award-winning Passivhaus-standard building stands as a symbol of our commitment to sustainability and innovation.

What We Do

Managing Green Spaces

We maintain parklands to high standards through a Service Level Agreement with the Town Council, ensuring accessibility, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities. Our work includes:

• Park improvements: Regular grass cutting, tree maintenance, waste management, and accessibility enhancements.
• Community amenities: Benches, picnic areas, and clear signage.
• Environmental stewardship: Planting wildflower meadows, establishing orchards, and installing bat and bird boxes.

Creating Opportunities

By leveraging the natural assets of Newtown, we have developed recreation and tourism infrastructure, including a BMX Pump Track, a mountain bike trail, and river access points for canoeing and paddleboarding. These projects, made possible with funding from partners like Sport Wales and Natural Resources Wales, support local enterprises and encourage tourism.

Hafan Yr Afon: A Community Hub

Opened in 2022, Hafan Yr Afon offers:

• A café serving locally sourced homemade food.
• A function room overlooking the River Severn, available for hire.
• Tourist Information Services and retail space.
• Disability- and dog-friendly facilities.
• Weekly Youth Club in partnership with Feathers Charity and monthly Youth Cafe in partnership with PCC
• Weekly Day Opportunities in partnership with PCC

This centre has become a vital space for community groups, events, workshops, and activities.

Our Vision

Open Newtown operates with the guiding principle of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Our aim is to foster a vibrant, sustainable Newtown where:

• Biodiversity thrives through well-managed green spaces.
• Community well-being is supported by outdoor activities, events, and recreational spaces.
• Economic resilience is achieved by creating tourism and enterprise opportunities.

Our Achievements

Since 2017, Open Newtown has delivered numerous benefits, including:

• Enhanced community spaces: New play park and improved access to green spaces.
• Biodiversity projects: Wildflower meadows, fruit orchards, and wildlife habitats.
• Major events: Hosting activities like the Welsh Athletics Cross Country meets and supporting 20+ outdoor event days throughout the year
• Job creation: Employing 20 local residents in part- and full-time roles.

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2025, Open Newtown is committed to:

• Expanding partnerships to develop more sustainable projects.
• Continuing to support local events and outdoor activities.
• Engaging the community through surveys, dialogue, and initiatives that reflect their aspirations.
• Promoting Newtown as a must-visit destination in Wales.

Join Us

We invite residents, organisations, and visitors to collaborate with us. Let’s work together to shape a greener, more vibrant Newtown.

Contact us:
📧 contact@opennewtown.org.uk
🌐 www.opennewtown.org.uk