One of the main benefits of operating or starting a business within one of our town centres is the area's unique character and appeal. With a mix of:
- historic buildings
- modern amenities
- culture
- vibrant atmosphere
The town centre is a destination in its own right.
Support network
Neath Port Talbot's town centres offer a strong sense of community and civic pride.
People care about their local businesses and support independent retailers and entrepreneurs.
This supportive network will help build strong relationships with:
- customers
- suppliers
- other business owners
There is always something happening in our thriving, cultural community. Our towns offer a range of cultural and entertainment opportunities, including:
- music venues
- theatres
- cinemas
Key resources
The Town Centre Management Team help promote and enhance the economic, social and cultural vitality of our town centres.
We help small and large businesses thrive and succeed in this exciting and dynamic location, offering guidance on:
- local regulations and policies
- marketing and promotion strategies
- finding retail premises
- connecting with businesses and stakeholders
The independent business community will benefit as a whole by allowing you to:
- build relationships
- share best practices
- collaborate on projects and initiatives
Other support
The team also provides practical support services, including:
- help setting up and maintaining your business
- access to training and development opportunities
- information support - related to managing your finances and cash flow
- up to date information and advice on issues affecting your business
- regular site visits to ensure that the town centre is a clean and safe environment
- organisation of events and promotions to encourage footfall
Training and workshops for town centre businesses
Online training for town centre businesses
Following feedback from local businesses, we have developed an online training platform to provide flexible learning opportunities that can be accessed at a time that suits your business. A range of courses are currently available to support:
- business growth
- staff development
- customer service skills
To ensure fair access for all eligible businesses and organisations within our town centre catchment areas, each business is entitled to one free course funded by the ‘Supporting Our Town Centres’ programme. Please see the list of available courses below. To book your chosen course or to find out more, please contact TownCentreSupport@npt.gov.uk
We will be happy to help you select the most suitable training opportunity for your business.
This project is supported by the Welsh Government through the UK Local Growth Fund in Wales.
Safeguarding
| Course | Link |
|---|---|
| Dementia awareness | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/dementia-training |
| LGBTQ+ awareness | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/lgbtq-training |
Health and safety
Business compliance
| Course | Link |
|---|---|
| Bullying and harassment in the workplace | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/bullying-harassment-training |
| Conflict resolution in the workplace | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/conflict-resolution-training |
| Cyber security awareness | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/cyber-security-awareness-training |
| Equality, diversity and inclusion for employees | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/equality-diversity-human-rights-training |
| Counter terrorism - Martyn's Law | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/martyns-law-training-course |
| Payment card industry - data security standard | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/payment-card-industry-training |
| The essentials of data protection (GDPR) | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/gdpr-data-protection-training |
| Misogyny awareness in the workplace | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/misogyny-in-the-workplace |
Food hygiene
| Course | Link |
|---|---|
| Barista training | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/barista-training |
| Customer service in hospitality | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/hospitality-customer-service-training |
| Food allergy awareness training | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/food-allergy-training |
| Home deliveries for food businesses | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/food-delivery-driver-training |
| Level 1 food safety and hygiene | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/level-1-food-hygiene-safety-training |
| Level 2 food safety and hygiene | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/level-2-food-hygiene-safety-training |
| Level 3 HACCP | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/level-3-haccp-training |
Personal and professional development
| Course | Link |
|---|---|
| Digital marketing training course | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/digital-marketing-training |
| Mental health awareness | https://www.virtual-college.co.uk/courses/mental-health-awareness-training |
Business Improvement District (BID)
The Business Improvement District (BID) is a key resource available to businesses in Port Talbot town centre.
BID brings businesses and community groups together to promote a vibrant and dynamic town centre, through:
- marketing and promotion
- events
- business training
- business mentoring
The Business Improvement District for Port Talbot is VIVA Port Talbot.
Business Crime Reduction Partnership
To help businesses stay safe and secure, Neath Port Talbot also supports initiatives like the Business Crime Reduction Partnership.
This partnership works to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour affecting local businesses, offering practical advice and collaborative solutions.
Contact us
For advice on an existing or new business in one of our town centres, please contact: