Chris Elmore, MP for Ogmore, visited the Maesteg Town Hall restoration project last week to see how work was progressing and to thank all those preserving the historic building for future generations.
Maesteg Town Hall is a Grade II listed building which is being lovingly restored and refurbished. Not only is the building getting much needed TLC it is getting a new lease of life with a new glass atrium, studio theatre, cinema space, café, mezzanine bar, heritage centre and modern library.
The building, once completed, will have a new natural slate roof installed, with the porch and main entrance steps being removed to make way for a new stairway and lift which will ensure that the hall is accessible for all.
The 1970s laminate cladding has been removed to uncovered the buildings original timber wall boards, which are now being repaired by expert craftspeople. This will ensure they are reinstated to their former glory.
Two ornate cast-iron columns have been redecorated, while the lowering of the stage to its historic level has uncovered the original timber floorboards, skirting boards and radiators.
Bridgend County Borough Council is working in partnership with Awen Cultural Trust and a number of other key funders on the £7.9m project. The Welsh Government are also supporting the scheme alongside the European Regional Development Fund as part of its final investments into Ogmore before Wales loses access to it.
Chris Elmore, MP for Ogmore, said:
“Making Maesteg Town Hall a true hub of the community is no small task. The building was in much need of restoration and renewal, but the team of builders, architects and volunteers working on it are making a tremendous amount of progress.
“I cannot understate how amazing it is to see such a beloved building being returned to its former glory. I have many happy memories of Maesteg Town Hall and am delighted that future generations will also benefit from this brilliant building. But the town hall is more than just a building, it’s the hub of the community. Somewhere where we can all come together and share in what our town can achieve.
“So once again, a massive congratulations from me to all involved and a big thank you to the Welsh Government, Bridgend County Borough Council and other funders for making this refurbishment happen.”