Welsh Government funding has been announced for improving public land in Bangor city centre.

Local Government Minister, Sian Gwenllian, also announced the launch of a new taskforce aimed at boosting Welsh town centres as she visited a series of regeneration projects in the cityon Tuesday.

Around £654,000 will be spent on public realm improvements in Bangor.

Two co-chairs have been appointed to develop practical recommendations for ministers alongside businesses, local government and communities by early next year.

The Welsh Government said the appointments delivered on a key commitment to establish the taskforce within its first 100 days.

Sian Gwenllian said: "Town centres remain at the heart of communities across Wales. They are places where people work, access services, spend time with family and friends and take part in civic and cultural life."

"However, they continue to face significant challenges as a result of changing consumer behaviour, economic pressures and the evolving role town centres play in everyday life."

"That's why we are establishing this taskforce to champion the future of Welsh town centres. It will identify actions to help challenge decline, encourage changes in use to increase footfall, support Welsh businesses, attract investment and strengthen the long-term vitality of towns and city centres."

Tamsin Ramasut, an experienced regeneration practitioner, said: “Town centres are central to thriving communities-places where people connect, local businesses grow and provide employment and create a sense of belonging."

Professor Simon Gibson CBE, founder of the graduation training firm Alacrity, added: "Our town centres are vital to communities and local economies across Wales, yet they face significant challenges that demand urgent action and fresh thinking."

"I am pleased to co-chair this taskforce, which brings together leaders from across sectors to develop innovative, practical solutions that remove barriers to growth, preserve presence and help create more vibrant, resilient town centres fit for the 21^st century."