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 around 8 miles (13 kilometres) from the Wales-England border, in the narrow valley of the river Severn which limits development north and south of the town. Newtown is surrounded by small villages normally referenced as the Newtown area. The town grew most noticeably in the 18th and 19th centuries around the fabric and flannel sector, which was further stimulated by the completion of the Montgomeryshire Canal. In 1838, the town saw Wales' very first Chartist demonstration. The town was designated as a 'brand-new town' in 1967. It has actually seen a significant population growth as companies and individuals have settled, altering the rural market town character. Lying on the River Severn, within the historic boundaries of Montgomeryshire, the town is best known as the birthplace of Robert Owen in 1771. His previous house stood on what is now the site of the HSBC Bank. The Robert Owen Museum is over the road, inhabiting the ground floor of the council offices. Constructed by Sir Pryce Pryce-Jones, the Pryce Jones Royal Welsh Warehouse continues to be the tallest structure in Newtown. The 2 towering structures housed the world's very first mail order service depot. Bear Lanes, the town's main shopping centre, has a Tudor-style entry. The building was formerly a hotel, The Bear, which contributes to the centre's aesthetics today. Newtown is additionally the home of Theatr Hafren and of Oriel Davies, a notable public gallery, which shows national and international modern art and craft. Newtown hosted the National Eisteddfod in 1965. For all your home enhancements, make sure to find respected professionals in Newtown to make certain of quality.