Ystradgynlais has been mentioned in a report by independent research organisation, Centre for Towns.

They looked in depth at how the pandemic would effect towns and their residents, and what would need to be done by government’s to help them recover.

In their report, Ystradgynlais, was ranked 11 out of the top 20 for “absolute deprivation.”

This means that historic problems would be compounded by coronavirus.

Ystradgynlais County Councillor, Huw Williams (Labour) has asked Powys County Council what help the town will receive to recover from the pandemic?

Cllr Williams, said: “Ystradgynlais was already identified as the most deprived area in Powys, in the Wales Index of Multiple Deprivation report published in November 2019.

“This report, unfortunately, reinforces the findings.

“What is the council’s medium and long term strategy for Ystradgynlais, post-COVID19, to support business recovery and address this deprivation?”

Portfolio holder for economic development, housing and regulatory services, Councillor James Evans, said: “To help inform this work, the council has just completed a COVID19 Impact Assessment for Powys, comparing both nationally and internationally where possible. ”

Cllr Evans pointed out that there are groups being set up to provide a strategic approach to town centre recovery all across Powys.

These include the Mid Wales Town Centre Action Group which is supposed to link with the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns initiative.

This supports measures to improve environmental, economic, social and cultural well-being.

Also, The Mid Wales Growth Deal between Powys, Ceredigion County Council’s, the UK and Welsh Government’s is also seen as key to Covid-19 recovery.

This could see up to £165 million used to help boost the economy by helping business ideas over the next 15 years.

Cllr Evans added: “The impact of Covid-19 on local businesses and communities such as Ystradgynlais is still emerging and will be felt for many years to come.

“The council is committed to doing all it can to support the long-term recovery of the economy and will be actively engaging with local stakeholders as part of this work. ”

A campaign which has just been started to encourage people to buy local and shop in Powys town high streets is part of the council’s strategy.

In their report, the Centre for Towns has identified several issues to help recovery:

Develop a programme of financial support that targets the most at-risk sectors.

Help to support businesses plan their recovery.

Introduce skills retention and development programmes and the opportunity to up-skill the workforce during a period of enforced inactivity.

Engage with cultural, leisure and sporting clubs to understand their funding requirements.

Ensure adequate levels of health service provision to allow management of any flare ups in the virus.