A three-year plan that will see playgrounds and woodlands developed in Aberaeron, along with improved harbour and Christmas lights, has been launched by town councillors.

Approved at a meeting in January, the Aberaeron Town Council Business Plan 2021-2024 officially began last week.

Among its priorities will be maintenance and upgrades of the Square Field and Parc-y-fro playgrounds, the development of Allt-y-graig woodland, and providing improved harbour lights and Christmas lights.

The council said that the aim of the business plan is to give Aberaeron’s residents a “clear understanding of what the town council is trying to achieve and how it intends to deliver this”.

To carry out the plan, the council decided to use some of its reserves to meet costs, instead of raising its council tax precept.

The whole plan will require the use of just over £23,000 of council reserved as councillors embark on needed projects throughout the town.

At Square Field and Parc-y-fro playgrounds, the council said it will cut the grass and hedges at regular periods, regularly inspect and maintain the park equipment, and improve the layout and safety of the park area.

At Allt-y-graig woodland, the council plans to use funds to cut back path foliage to maintain safe access, and carry out maintenance work on gates, benches and signs.

The council said it would also continue to organise litter picks, support town businesses and enterprises as well as continue to work with Dyfed-Powys Police on neighbourhood safety issues.

Councillors also outlined plans to “liaise with relevant partners to improve the signage, quality of public footpaths together with rights of way within the town” and work with Ceredigion council to introduce road and pedestrian safety schemes.

Aberaeron mayor Cllr Darryl Evans said: “Our business plan should give confidence that the town is being supported in an efficient, forward-thinking and effective way.

“However, the work of the town council is not limited by the aspirations and objectives of its business plan.

“We are always ready to consider new projects, take on new challenges and listen to ideas.

“The council understands that community engagement and involvement are key to our success, although the Covid-19 pandemic has admittedly made this difficult.

“We therefore welcome comments and suggestions as we move forward.”

A Planning Working Group was established in the summer of 2020 to help drive forward work during the Covid-19 pandemic.