Barry loos to become beachside restaurants
THE Grade II-listed toilet block on Barry Island will be turned into “a cluster of beachside restaurants”.
The disused public changing rooms at Nell’s Point – which boasts grand entrance columns – has been on the market for a number of years .
Developers Next Colour Ltd have 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 1930’s cinema at Oyster Wharf at Mumbles and the Council is optimistic a development of similar quality will be delivered in this instance.
The former convenience block is Grade II-listed, which means the new owners will be unable to modify the key structure, but the grand building can be utilised 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.
Cllr 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 first-class 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 CEO 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 to 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 Osyter 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, 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 development and are coming back on a regular basis.”.
Bert Bollom, who owns Mumbles Pier, said: “It was very divisive when it first started, and everyone was up in arms, but Mumbles beforehand was looking very tired,” he said.
“Now we have had investment in Mumbles, I am hoping it is the start of a run.”
Mr Morse expected to be able to deliver further news in the new year for a timeframe on the work and the tenants.