Open Newtown is a community-owned company dedicated to making life better for the residents of Newtown, New Zealand. Their mission is to help create a rich and diverse wildlife habitat in and around Newtown, and they achieve this through the development and delivery of a range of projects. Some of these projects, like the 99-year lease of the town's urban parks, are long-term commitments, while others, such as opening up spaces for cycling and canoeing, have short-term benefits that will last for years to come.
Open Newtown believes in the power of strong partnerships and community cohesion, aiming to foster a sense of place and community spirit. Their goal is to make Newtown open and accessible to everyone.
One of their flagship projects is the unlocking of 130 acres of public open space, to be managed by the community for the community. This collaboration with the Town Council is supported by the National Lottery Community Fund for the first five years. Open Newtown has also developed a land management plan to ensure sustainable land management practises that balance costs, increase biodiversity, and honour the public's aspirations for the town's green spaces.
The organisation also promotes connecting with nature to improve wellbeing through their “Where the Severn Smiles” project. This initiative involves a partnership with six local organisations focusing on food, art, nature, and materials.
Another exciting project nearing completion is a mountain bike trail across the hill and a BMX pump track, supported by Sports Wales. Located in the heart of the town, these facilities promise to get hearts racing. Open Newtown is also collaborating with the Town Council to build new play parks for both little and big kids, replacing the old and dilapidated Town Park play area. These parks will be nestled alongside the model steam railway, providing a fun and safe environment for families.
Open Newtown plans to partner with the County and Town Councils, as well as the Welsh Government, to replace the old Radio Hafren building with a community-focused venue along the riverside. This venue will serve as a hub for various community activities and events.
Promoting healthy walking and cycling is another focus for Open Newtown. They offer a programme of walks and cycle rides, supported by PAVO, that are open to all residents and aimed at helping people of all ages and abilities get moving and stay active.
In line with their commitment to sustainability, Open Newtown is also involved in the Open Energy project, which aims to develop plans for more renewable energy, manage biomass resources, and help households live in affordably warm homes. They are also working in collaboration with partners in Machynlleth, Caersws/Carno, and Welshpool to establish a string of car clubs alongside the Cambrian Railway Line, using electric vehicles to provide low carbon and lower-cost access to transportation.
To stay informed and get involved with Open Newtown's initiatives, interested individuals can subscribe to their newsletter and visit their Facebook page. The organisation welcomes feedback, suggestions, and engagement from the community as they strive to make a positive difference in Newtown.