Seven Welsh ‘community treasures’ saved through UK Government funding

Seven much-loved community spaces across Wales are set to be refurbished and secured for future generations, thanks to over £2 million in UK Government funding. The Community Ownership Fund will allow these spaces to continue serving as vital hubs for local residents, offering a range of cultural, social, and educational activities.

This funding forms part of the government’s Plan for Change, which aims to boost economic growth and raise living standards by supporting thriving communities. Among the recipients are pubs, music venues, and sports facilities, all of which play a crucial role in fostering local connections and community spirit.

A Boost for Local Hubs

A significant portion of the funding, £1 million, will support the refurbishment of four spaces in Wales, including:

• Tafarn y Plu pub in Gwynedd: A beloved local venue that will undergo renovation to ensure it remains a cornerstone of the community.
• The Bunkhouse music venue in Swansea: Renovation will allow the venue to expand its offerings, including live music and educational programmes.
• A community shop in Gwynedd and a museum in Powys: Both will benefit from upgrades to improve their services and broaden their activities.

The largest single award, £400,000, has been allocated to the Llanfair Light Railway station and Cloverlands car model museum. This project will transform the site into a shared community space with a visitor centre, providing tours that highlight the railway’s historical and operational context.

Minister for Local Growth Alex Norris celebrated the projects, saying:
“These are all multi-functional spaces that do so much for local people, and most of us will have fond memories in treasured places like these. We’ve prioritised these grants to help preserve and upgrade what these vital places offer to their communities.”

More Projects Across Wales

Other projects receiving funding include:

• Eveswell Community Centre, Newport (£300,000): Renovations will improve facilities, enabling more activities such as family groups, craft classes, and youth clubs.
• Pentre Comrades Club (£300,000): A refurbishment will create a central hub for socialising and learning, with new facilities including a cafe, shop, and community garden.
• Caerphilly Rugby Football Club (£299,000): Funding will improve facilities for rugby development and provide a space for local events such as fundraisers and festivals.

Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens commended the initiative, saying:
“Congratulations to these fantastic community projects in Wales. Over £2 million is being spent by the UK Government to make sure that these special places are refurbished and improved so they can provide facilities for local people to come together.”