Town Councillors have endorsed plans for a physical heritage hub in Newtown to preserve and celebrate the legacy of Bernard and Laura Ashley in Mid Wales.

At Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn’s February Full Council meeting, Councillors welcomed Ms Ann Evans from Heritage Hub 4 Mid Wales (HH4MW) to hear of their quest to preserving and celebrating the legacy of Bernard and Laura Ashley in Mid Wales. During the presentation councillors heard of Heritage Hub for Mid-Wales proposals for a physical heritage hub in Newtown and other events happening during 2023.

Heritage Hub 4 Mid Wales mission is to enhance awareness and recognition of the pioneers of Newtown: Laura Ashley, David Davies, Robert Owen & Pryce Pryce Jones. HH4MW have worked to support the Peoples Collection Wales digital platform, the naming of the bypass roundabouts and the installation of Heritage trail plaques.

With 2023 being the 70^th Anniversary of the well-known home brand, with its iconic floral prints & products, HH4MW have great plans to celebrate all the things Laura Ashley. Councillors heard of HH4MW plans to celebrate the legacy of Laura Ashley, with plans of a Quilt Exhibition from 9^th March, Fashion Show in June and plans for a Garment Collection Exhibition at Powis Castle in September.

Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn Town Council resolved to support Heritage Hub for Mid Wales (HH4MW) application for a Place Making Grant for the Heritage Hub proposal and will provide a letter of endorsement.

Anyone wanting to find out more information regarding Heritage Hub 4 Mid Wales work is encouraged to visit their website: The Heritage Hub 4 Mid Wales - Sharing Wales' Pioneers with the World