How a planned revamp could transform town hall
First pictures of Maesteg landmark’s new look:
THIS is how Maesteg Town Hall could look in future if a proposed revamp goes ahead.
The glass atrium featured in an artist’s impression released by Bridgend council is just one of the changes that could be made under what the authority has called a “new vision”.
Residents of the Llynfi Valley are now being asked to give their views on the proposals, which the council said could see a wide range of new community facilities introduced.
But the plan has already proved controversial after it was revealed the changes would not include the indoor market, which has been there for 133 years.
Information sessions are being arranged by Awen Cultural Trust and Bridgend County Borough Council along with an online survey and public displays for people to view the artist’s impressions, look at the potential new facilities that could be introduced and consider how they would like to use the town hall as a future community space.
Bridgend council has said that feedback gained through the sessions and survey will be used in the development of the proposals, which form part of a new vision that seeks to ensure the town hall remains firmly at the heart of the community while also addressing structural issues at the historic 135 year old Grade II-listed build- ing. A council spokesman said that among the examples demonstrating what could be introduced are:
a studio theatre space suitable for intimate live performances and digital cinema screenings
a new glass atrium and enhanced front-of-house space with a café and bar
improved dressing room and backstage facilities capable of hosting a broader range of professional arts companies while better accommodating the needs of local choirs, bands and amateur dramatics groups
a dedicated ‘play, read and make’ children’s area featuring 3D printers, iPads and other IT facilities
a performance area for storytelling events and bounce and rhyme parent and toddler sessions
enhanced meeting and conference space
quiet study and work areas featuring free access to wifi, heritage and local history resources.
Councillor Charles Smith, cabinet member for regeneration and education, said: “These exciting and ambitious plans fol- low the re-launch of the outdoor market area and form a key part of establishing Maesteg as a regenerated market town.
“They demonstrate that the council and Awen are committed towards securing a future for Maesteg Town Hall, and providing fresh and new facilities capable of ensuring that it can continue to serve as the heart of the local community.”
Originally opened in 1881, Maesteg Town Hall was funded by local miners and designed by Henry Harris of Cardiff. It houses a collection of work by celebrated painter Christopher Williams and features a landmark clock tower that is recognised throughout the Llynfi Valley.
Richard Hughes, chief executive of Awen Cultural Trust, said: “We want to respect the great heritage of Maesteg Town Hall while also revitalising, regenerating and re-imagining its potential to ultimately create something special – a place that balances historical relevance with modern facilities, and which the people of the Llynfi Valley can continue to enjoy for decades to come.”
Bridgend council said the information sessions are currently being arranged. In the meantime, public displays are being set up at Maesteg Town Hall, Maesteg Sports Centre and Maesteg Library while the online survey is available at www.surveymonkey. co. uk/ r/ MTHredevelopment