Last week we were invited to the New Quay Place Plan discussion and workshop. This was run by Ceredigion County Council who want to know what people value about living and working in New Quay, and what they want to see in the future.

The ‘watery’ group’s ideas (well, just some of them!)

There was an open session for people to come and see the draft Place Plan, and boards to record their ideas about what works, what doesn’t, and what they want to see in New Quay. It was great to see that it was well attended by local folk and businesses.

Cardigan Bay Watersports Centre has been a (quite literally) central part of New Quay for 20 years now, and we are keen to look to the future. What can we do to widen participation on the water, which is the charity’s main objective? How can we make the Centre provide even better activities, coaching, service? We have plenty of ideas, and it was great to join in with the workshop and put a few of them forward.

Most people were in agreement that the pier is the main attraction in New Quay, as well as the beautiful terraces; this all needs protection and better presentation. The sea feeds into everything we do, and many felt New Quay could lead Wales in providing outdoor experiences and education. The community spirit and warm welcome is also paramount; we’re all passionate about ‘the village’. Dolphins is a big draw too! It was all about better use of the fabulous resources we have, and safeguarding them for the future.

Of course, the Centre already works in collaboration with others, especially New Quay Yacht Club. We’d love to see these relationships deepened to the benefit of all, and we hope to be a big part of it. Watch this space!

Thanks to Sarah at CCC and Will from Rural Office Wales (architects and author of the draft plan), and everyone else who took part.