Hundreds of thousands of pounds have been made available in Ceredigion and Powys for funding to “build better tourist destinations”.

Cash has been made available by the Welsh Government for four projects in the two counties, including smart bus display screens, car park access, and improved facilities.

Deputy minister for culture, sport and tourism, Lord Elis-Thomas announced the £2.2m fund being offered to 23 projects which will improve the experience visitors have throughout Wales.

Ceredigion council will oversee a fund of £128,000 which will be spent on the installation of smart CGI display screens on Traws Cymru T2 and T5 bus routes between Fishguard and Porthmadog.

The screens will show public information in seven strategic locations along the west Wales coastal corridor.

At Devil’s Bridge, the Vale of Rheidol Railway has also been given funding of £128,000 for the provision of a new 79 vehicle designated car park on land adjoining the station.

The scheme will improve access and visibility, and free the existing car park for use as coach parking.

Powys County Council will administer a fund of £128,000 to create new orientation facilities and welcome points along the Cambrian Way.

The scheme will incorporate local materials and will feature landscaping and interpretation highlighting cultural and heritage aspects of the area.

The Elan Valley Trust in Rhayader has been given £67,384.80 to improve facilities relating to the International Dark Sky Park status, including an exhibition and planetarium, measurement and observation equipment and a bespoke observation structure.

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition on Wednesday