Brecon West Ward Councillor Matthew Dorrance has welcomed Powys County Council’s draft economic strategy, GROW, saying it sets out a “big win” for Brecon’s Promenade.

The strategy, which will be subject to public consultation, aims to increase prosperity, support the local economy, and improve Powys for future generations.

Cllr Dorrance, who has long campaigned for the regeneration of the Promenade, praised the plan for including a “Big Idea” for the redevelopment of the Brecon Boathouse and landing stage.

“The inclusion of the ‘Big Idea’ for the redevelopment of the Brecon Boathouse and landing stage in this plan is a big win for Brecon and one that I have been calling for over many years,” he said.

“It comes off the back of significant investment at the Prom, with a new Town Council-funded Multi Use Games Area, a Welsh Government-funded inclusive play park – the first of its kind in Wales – and work to improve footpaths and roads, funded by the UK Government.”

Cllr Dorrance, who is also deputy leader of Powys County Council, said: “The Prom is an important part of Brecon’s community, so I am delighted that it is a part of the county’s new economic strategy plans. I urge everyone to get involved with the consultation.”

The redevelopment idea aims to modernise the riverside facility with upgraded outdoor areas, improved café provision, and enhanced pedalo hire. The strategy says the plans will attract more visitors, encourage longer stays, and support local shops, hospitality businesses, and cultural venues.

The proposal in the ‘Big Ideas’ document states: “As a refreshed visitor destination, the Boathouse will attract more tourists exploring the riverside and wider Brecon area, strengthen links between the Promenade, the town centre, and nearby attractions, and provide improved facilities suited for year-round use. The redevelopment will also support community events and activities, helping create a more vibrant local economy and reinforcing Brecon’s role as an appealing and lively market town.”

Brecon Promenade gets another mention in the Big Ideas document, this time as a potential pilot site for Car Park Camping Aires. The initiative aims to create designated overnight parking and camping areas to support tourism while spreading visitors more evenly across the county.

The document states: “A pilot site at Brecon Promenade is already under consideration, based on learning from Gwynedd Council’s established approach. If implemented effectively, Car Park Camping Aires could enhance visitor experience, support sustainable tourism, and generate new income streams for communities across Powys.”

The big ideas in the plan are subject to securing funding but set the ambition and the direction for the council.

The council is inviting residents, businesses, and community organisations to give feedback on the draft strategy before it is finalised. The consultation begins on February 25 and runs until March 25, and is designed to be accessible and transparent.

People can contribute online via the council’s Engagement Hub, by email, or through printed surveys available at libraries and community hubs. A series of in-person drop-in sessions will also be held across towns in March.