TORFAEN is fortunate to be located in an Objective One area which has benefited many local businesses which have received financial assistance through grant aid or business support from one of the advisers in the economic development team at Torfaen council.

The council's grant schemes can help companies with a range of activities including preparing business plans, buying new machinery and marketing.

The section continues to assist in the creation of new jobs through grant assistance and regularly creates between 300 and 400 new jobs each year.

The substantial levels of investments throughout Torfaen, along with high levels of occupancy, demonstrate the commitment of local business to the area. This also highlights the attractiveness of Torfaen in terms of its location, workforce and industrial heritage.

For the full range of Torfaen council grants covering start-up and growth, visit www.torfaen.org

The estates team's portfolio covers a range of industrial, office and retail accommodation in Cwm-bran, Pontypool and Blaenavon.

Occupancy rates are high and new developments are becoming available soon. Victoria House, Blaenavon, is the newest development, providing high quality B1 office/ workshop space at £5.50/sq ft.

The Innovation Centre currently under construction at Llantarnam Park (anticipated completion, September 2005) will provide fully-equipped, superior managed office space.

Contact Torfaen estates team on 01633 648077.

Torfaen Business Voice meets quarterly at venues throughout area. Each meeting has a keynote speaker. The aim of the club is to promote networking, to inform and to entertain.

Contact Molly Carey on 01633 648083.