PLANS to rejuvenate Caldicot town centre have been given a boost after two initiatives were granted £12,000 by Monmouthshire County Council.

A pop-up shop project called 'Caldicot Goes Pop!' and a new market scheme were given £4,446 and £8097.50 respectively.

The funds will be released from the contributions received from Asda as part of its planning permission for community and social infrastructure.

Both schemes were put forward by the Caldicot Town Team, a community interest company established in 2013.

The town team has been striving to improve the "vitality and vibrancy of the town centre" through various initiatives since its inception.

Aaron Reeks, one of the team's directors, said: "We are positive the action plan we have put together will begin to sow the seeds of change and help make Caldicot a better place to work, live and play.

"Working together is the key to making the changes needed, and we are always looking for more help and support from volunteers, be that from members of the public, local businesses and even town or county council."

The premise of the 'Caldicot Goes Pop!' is to let local businesses set up in the town centre for a short period to test if their business is viable.

Caldicot Town Team, with local landlords, will offer business owners a discounted rent rate with no initial set up costs.

A complete advertisement package will also be created to help maximise the potential of the business.

Councillor Phil Hobson described it as a "win win situation", saying: "They've found a very low risk way for somebody that may be wanting to start a business to test run it to see if it's going to work.

"This is a really good initiative and they've really though about it. If successful I can very well see other areas taking on this model."

The new market scheme looks to expand the number of specialist markets in the town to become regular events.

According to Mr Reeks, around 750 people attended their Welsh market this year while last year's Christmas market drew in around 1,100 people.

Many residents have noted the vacant properties and have lamented the apparent "deterioration" of the town centre.

Nearly 10 per cent of the buildings are vacant, with many claiming out-of-town visitors come to Caldicot solely for the Asda.

Debbie McCarty, from the council, said: "We support the work of the town team and encourage projects that help gain a greater footfall in the town centre."