Bangor town centre is set for a major boost after Cyngor Gwynedd secured almost £1 million from the Welsh Government to bring empty properties back into use.

The funding forms part of a wider £19.6 million investment being rolled out across Wales through the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns and Placemaking programmes, aimed at revitalising high streets and strengthening local economies.

In Bangor, the Empty Property Initiative will focus on tackling long-term vacant buildings, improving the look and feel of the city centre, and creating new opportunities for businesses and communities.

Elsewhere in Wales, Ceredigion County Council will receive up to £2.3 million to develop a Culture and Community zone at Aberystwyth’s Old College, while Swansea Council has been awarded more than £650,000 towards the commercial and retail elements of the Biophilic Living development.

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government Jayne Bryant said town centres remain “the heart and soul of Welsh communities,” adding that the funding will help breathe new life into high streets, support local traders and create vibrant, welcoming places to live and work.