Community Spirit Shines as Blaenavon Celebrates 25 Years as a World Heritage Site

Community pride was on full display as more than 1,000 people turned out for Blaenavon’s World Heritage Day 2025—an event that marked the 25th anniversary of the town’s inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The milestone celebration, held on Saturday, June 28, was the result of months of hard work by volunteers, supported by crucial funding from Torfaen County Borough Council. With £10,000 from the council’s adults and communities reserve fund and additional backing from Blaenavon Town Council, the event brought the historic town to life with a vibrant parade, home-grown entertainment, and dozens of community-run stalls.

Chair of the Blaenavon World Heritage Day Team, Ashleigh Taylor, reflected on the success of the event:

“It was a joy to see our community come together and connect in celebration of our shared heritage. Almost every organisation in the town played a part—businesses opened their doors, community groups joined the parade, and all the entertainment was home-grown. This is a truly community-led event, and it shows the pride we have in Blaenavon’s World Heritage Site status.”

Held in the heart of the town, the event not only celebrated Blaenavon’s industrial legacy but also served as a rallying point for local resilience and regeneration. Organisers had previously warned that without financial support; the celebration was at risk of cancellation—prompting a vital intervention from the council.

Tim Monckton, the council’s foundational economy officer, explained ahead of the event:

“Without this funding, it is unlikely that World Heritage Day will be able to go ahead this year.”

Thankfully, the funding was secured—and its impact was evident. New and established businesses on Broad Street benefited from increased footfall, including a deli, a florist, a tourism shop, and a newly reopened Post Office.

Beyond the festivities, the day fulfilled key UNESCO criteria for community engagement and education, aligning with the goals of the World Heritage Management Plan.

With live performances, heritage activities, and a strong turnout from residents and visitors alike, the event highlighted not just the importance of Blaenavon’s history, but its vibrant and active community spirit.

As Ashleigh concluded,

“This year’s celebration highlighted not only the historic significance of the Blaenavon Industrial Landscape but the strength of collaboration in our town. It’s a powerful reminder that our heritage is not just about the past—it’s part of our future.”