AN AMBITIOUS plan to regenerate a former industrial factory in Torfaen into an arts centre aims to create "Wales' very own Tate Modern".

The Mamhilad Arts Project (MAP), which hopes to bring a number of artistic facilities, including a museum, theatre and cinema to the former British Nylon Spinners factory, has received support from the Prince of Wales’ charity – the Prince’s Regeneration Trust (PRT).

The collective of artists will receive mentoring support from PRT, who estimate that if the project were to come to life, it could create thousands of jobs and inward investment for the Pontypool area.

The owners of the Grade II* listed Mamhilad site however say they are yet to receive a formal approach from either the charity or MAP members.

“The support we’ve seen nationally and internationally from the arts and technology communities shows the incredible opportunity the factory presents for Wales,” said MAP secretary Robin Mitchell.

“Our vision is to bring the creative expertise of our members together with the owners and county council to make this factory a world-leading creative centre.

“We have the support and heritage expertise of The Prince’s Regeneration Trust behind us we are taking the next steps towards making this a reality,” he added.

The owners of the site at Mamhilad, Johnsey Estates say they have not received any formal approaches from the group or the trust about the prospective use of the former factory.

James Crawford, the chief executive of the Johnsey Estates, said: “While I am aware of the group under the name of the Mamhilad Arts Project, we have not received a formal proposals backed by the Prince’s Regeneration Trust.

“We would welcome an opportunity to have a meeting with both parties to discuss the matter further. As of yet, we have heard nothing from either party on the matter.”

If the project were to be approved, the charity and the team behind MAP would aim to create Wales’ very own Tate Modern or Guggenheim museums.

Ros Kerslake, chief executive of The Prince’s Regeneration Trust, says: “MAP has an amazing vision for the factory. Its connections internationally and in the arts world give it a great vantage point to make a scheme like this a real success.

“A centre like this would help conserve and maintain these important buildings long into the future, and showcase the heritage of the area.

“It would also be an incredible boost for job opportunities, education and industry in the Capital Region,” she added.