Newtown is the largest town in the county of Powys, Wales. It had a permanent resident population of 12783 in 2001, falling to 11357 at the 2011 census. Newtown is roughly 8 miles (13 km) from the Wales-England border, in the narrow valley of the river Severn which limits growth north and south of the town. Newtown is surrounded by small villages normally referenced as the Newtown region. The town grew most noticeably in the 18th and 19th centuries around the fabric and flannel sector, which was further promoted by the completion of the Montgomeryshire Canal. In 1838, the town saw Wales' first Chartist demonstration. The town was designated as a 'brand-new town' in 1967. It has actually seen a sizeable population growth as companies and individuals have settled, changing the rural market town character. Resting on the River Severn, within the historical borders of Montgomeryshire, the town is best known as the birth place of Robert Owen in 1771. His one-time house stood on what is now the site of the HSBC Bank. The Robert Owen Museum is across the road, inhabiting the ground floor of the council offices. Developed by Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones, the Pryce Jones Royal Welsh Warehouse remains the tallest building in Newtown. The 2 towering structures housed the world's very first mail order service depot. Bear Lanes, the town's principal shopping centre, has a Tudor-style entryway. The building was formerly a hotel, The Bear, which contributes to the centre's appearance today. Newtown is additionally the home of Theatr Hafren and of Oriel Davies, a huge public gallery, which shows national and overseas contemporary art and craft. Newtown hosted the National Eisteddfod in 1965. For all of your home improvements, make certain to identify reliable experts in Newtown to make certain of quality.