Abergavenny Town Council is delighted to celebrate the recognition of Monmouthshire County Council and its partner town councils following their success at the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Awards for Planning Excellence 2026.

The collaborative placemaking work undertaken across Monmouthshire has been awarded the prestigious Award for Excellence in Plan Making Practice, recognising an innovative approach to creating town plans that place communities at the heart of shaping their future.

The award acknowledges the strong partnership between Monmouthshire County Council and the town councils of Abergavenny, Magor with Undy and Monmouth, alongside extensive engagement with residents, businesses and community organisations. Together, they have developed plans that reflect local priorities while supporting sustainable growth, economic vitality and community wellbeing.

Abergavenny’s Placemaking Plan was shaped through a comprehensive programme of consultation and engagement, giving local people the opportunity to share their ideas, aspirations and ambitions for the future of the town. The resulting plan provides a framework to guide future investment and regeneration projects, helping to ensure Abergavenny continues to thrive as a vibrant and welcoming place to live, work and visit.

As part of the wider programme, several projects are now moving forward across Monmouthshire, including the delivery of new high-quality Changing Places and public toilet facilities in Abergavenny during 2026/27.

Councillor Bryony Nicholson, Mayor of Abergavenny, said:

“This award is fantastic recognition of what can be achieved when local communities are given a genuine opportunity to help shape the future of their towns. The Abergavenny Placemaking Plan was developed through conversations with residents, businesses and community groups, ensuring local voices were at the centre of the process.

“We are pleased to have worked alongside Monmouthshire County Council and our fellow town councils on this important piece of work, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact the plan will have on Abergavenny in the years ahead.”

Abergavenny Town Council would like to thank everyone who contributed their views and ideas throughout the placemaking process. This national recognition highlights the value of community-led planning and the importance of working together to create places that meet the needs of current and future generations.

Residents can find out more about the placemaking and regeneration programme by visiting: www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/placemaking-and-regeneration/