A community interest company is set to open its doors in one of Blaenavon's oldest buildings.

BB - Sustainable Tourism CIC plans to attract new visitors to the town centre by launching its second retail hub in the refurbished Blaenavon Market Tavern.

This comes as part of the £1.9 million Blaenavon Townscape Heritage Programme, which aims to preserve the town centre's heritage.

The investment has successfully brought five derelict buildings back into use, either as commercial, residential, or community facilities.

Helen Howarth, founder and executive director of BB - Sustainable Tourism CIC, said: "Our team is passionate about harnessing the power of tourism to uplift the local economy, enrich the lives of residents, and cherish our natural environment.

"We see Blaenavon as the perfect gateway to the breathtaking Bannau Brycheiniog/Brecon Beacons National Park, a welcoming starting point for the journeys of countless visitors.

"Our aim is to extend a heartfelt warm welcome, ‘croeso cynnes’ to everyone who steps through our doors."

The not-for-profit organisation is on a mission to boost tourism in the Bannau Brycheiniog/Brecon Beacons National Park.

The new hub will feature a collection of local and eco-conscious gifts, sustainable living products, and essential business supplies.

They also plan to offer a holiday apartment to encourage tourists to stay and explore the area.

Every purchase and booking will contribute to their "Profit for Purpose" mission.

Councillor Joanne Gauden, executive member for economy, skills & regeneration, said: "It was lovely meeting Helen and her fellow director Arianwen, they are keen to work with local businesses to attract visitors to the area and showcase what Blaenavon has on offer.

"They have lots of plans and passion, and I’m excited to follow their progress."

The Blaenavon Townscape Heritage Programme (THP) began in 2018, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Torfaen Council, Blaenavon Town Council, Cadw, and private sector applicants.

As part of the THP programme, 10 community projects have also been carried out, including the creation of a tapestry charting Blaenavon’s Broad Street history, which was later turned into a new digital and audio exhibition which can be viewed at the Blaenavon World Heritage Centre.

A "Hidden Histories of Blaenavon" film was also produced exploring and celebrating key and lesser-known figures who helped to shape Blaenavon town during the Victorian period, and Mynavon, a Youtube video was created by young people and supported by Blaenavon Male Voice Choir.

Through their retail, online, and wholesale channels, the new hub will feature a vibrant collection of local and eco-conscious gifts, sustainable living products, and essential supplies for businesses.

The company will also be welcoming tourists to a holiday apartment to encourage visitors to stay and explore the local region.

Every purchase and every booking made will contribute to their inspiring mission named "Profit For Purpose."

Councillor Joanne Gauden, Executive Member for Economy, Skills & Regeneration, said: "It was lovely meeting Helen and her fellow Director Arianwen, they are keen to work with local businesses to attract visitors to the area and showcase what Blaenavon has on offer.

"They are passionate about the environment and sustainability so they will fit in well.

"When I was visiting the shop, a few locals popped their heads in to ask about the business, and to wish them luck – it’s was lovely.

"They have lots of plans and passion, and I’m excited to follow their progress."