Newtown
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 about 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 markedly in the 18th and 19th centuries around the fabric and flannel sector, which was further stimulated by the conclusion 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 considerable population growth as companies and individuals have settled, changing the rural market town character. Resting on the River Severn, within the historic borders of Montgomeryshire, the town is best known as the birthplace 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 structure in Newtown. The two imposing structures housed the world's very first mail order service depot. Bear Lanes, the town's prime shopping centre, has a Tudor-style entryway. The structure was in times past a hotel, The Bear, which brings about the centre's appeal today. Newtown is also the home of Theatr Hafren and of Oriel Davies, a main public gallery, which shows national and international modern art and craft. Newtown hosted the National Eisteddfod in 1965. For all of your home refurbishments, make certain to find dependable specialists in Newtown to make certain of quality.