Barry Island toilets set for grand revamp

A GRADE-II listed toilet block on Barry Island is set to be turned into a “cluster” of beachside restaurants.

The disused public lavatories and cloakrooms at Nell’s Point – completed with grand entrance columns – have been on the market for a number of years.

But developer Next Colour Ltd has now been chosen to deliver a project that will see the premises converted into a number of high-quality restaurants.

Next Colour recently completed the refurbishment of the 1930s cinema at Oyster Wharf, Mumbles. The Vale of Glamorgan council is optimistic a development of similar quality will be delivered in Barry.

The former convenience block is Grade II-listed, which means the new owners will be unable to modify the key structure, but the surprisingly grand building can be used in a number of ways.

While tenants for the renovation have not yet been confirmed, the restaurants Prezzo, Le Bistrot Pierre and the cafe bar Loungers are part of the development in Mumbles.

Councillor John Thomas, leader of the Vale of Glamorgan council, said: “The council is pleased to announce this exciting new proposal. Bringing new high calibre restaurants to Barry Island will further boost the area and help cement its reputation as a firstclass seaside resort.

“We hope it will make the location even more appealing to residents and visitors alike.

“The council has committed significant resources to upgrading the Island over the last few years and it’s encouraging to see that commitment lead to private investment in the area.”

Next Colour chief executive James Morse said: “We are delighted to have been appointed by the Vale of Glamorgan council to redevelop the former changing rooms above the beach at Nell’s Point. It’s a fantastic site on one of Wales’ best Blue Flag beaches.

“We intend to develop a cluster of beachside restaurants with stunning views over the bay.

“Barry has seen huge regeneration over the last few years and we intend to deliver something special for the seafront.

“The aim is to further Barry Island’s appeal as a year-round destination and more detailed plans will be unveiled in the new year.”

The Oyster Wharf project resulted in the restoration of the Tivoli Arcade and new Georgian sandstone-type buildings on the seafront in Mumbles.

Tenants started moving into the site a few months ago and the development was well received in the seaside village.

Prezzo, Le Bistrot Pierre, Loungers and Mediterranean eaterie La Parilla all operate at the venue.

There had been worries from independent traders about the arrival of big chains to the sea front.

“People were a bit wary of the bigger names and chains coming in,” Mumbles Traders Association chairman, Paul Whittaker, said at the time.

“But we need something to drag the extra people in. It’s definitely increased footfall.

“A lot of people were panicking, saying it was going to affect their businesses, but a lot of people have upped their game.

“People who have not been to Mumbles for years have come to have a look at the new development and are coming back on a regular basis.”

Mr Morse expected to be able to give further details of timescales and tenants in the new year.