A £500,000 scheme has been set up to help regeneration schemes in Aberystwyth.

The cash is being made available to the county council by the Welsh Government.

Developments included as part of the loan scheme could include plans to convert the former Swyddfa’r Sir council office into flats and a spa, the Vale of Rheidol’s plan to open a national narrow gauge museum, and a proposal to renovate the Old College into a public access exhibition area, gallery and performance space.

Carl Sargeant, the Cabinet secretary for communities and children, said the scheme was open to any development that would regenerate Aberystwyth town centre to bring empty sites back in to use.

He said: “This funding will help local authorities regenerate their town centres by helping them find sustainable uses for empty sites and premises such as affordable town centre homes or tourist and leisure attractions.

“As well as making town centres more attractive places to live this loan scheme will help encourage investment into these areas as well as support the local economy.”

Ceredigion council is one of 12 areas in Wales that will benefit from the Vibrant and Viable Places Town Centre Loans Fund.