An exciting project that has seen the transformation of Llangefni Town Hall into a sustainable hub for start-up companies and social enterprises is almost complete.
The Town Hall has been a landmark feature in Llangefni on the Isle of Anglesey since 1871. Partial refurbishment following fire damage in the late 1980s saw the building fall into disrepair in the 1990s and it remained largely unoccupied for more than a decade.
Menter Môn Ltd aims to bring the old Town Hall back into the heart of the community by substantially upgrading the interior and providing facilities for the local community and businesses in the heart of Anglesey. The development will promote the role of the third sector projects and emphasis has also been placed on producing a viable business plan from a mix of short and long term rental incomes.
The refurbishment scheme began on site in November 2010 and is due to be completed in a matter of weeks. In addition to creating facilities for community groups and the local town market, the refurbished building will offer opportunities for local organisations and groups to develop.
As the 2400m² Town Hall is a Grade II listed building, it was imperative that the original design of the building was respected throughout the construction process. Architectural features such as the old balcony and various masonry and stone details have been carefully retained and the building is expected to achieve BREEAM ‘Good’ Standard.
The works included a complete internal strip out and refurbishment of the windows, whilst external works have included repairs to the listed masonry walls. Landscaping has comprised the extension of an existing footpath.
Although the project has progressed well, challenges have included dealing with unforeseen structural works, maintaining access to the adjoining Bull Hotel and accommodating the local town market in the adjacent public car park twice a week.
Funding for the £2 million project has been provided by the Isle of Anglesey County Council’s ‘Three Towns Initiative’ (primarily ERDF) and Property Environment Grants. The Welsh Assembly Government’s ‘Môn and Menai’ Scheme, the Big Lottery Fund and of course the client Menter Môn Ltd are further contributors to the scheme. The main contractor for the project is Dawnus Construction and the architect is Dewis Consultants.
Ian Williams, MD of Advent Project Management Ltd, the Project and Cost Managers and CDM Coordinators for the scheme, said:
“This landmark building will become a focal point for businesses and the local community. It is a fantastic opportunity for Llangefni. The ‘Social Enterprise Centre’ will be a valuable asset for start-up companies and will also aid in the socio-economic growth of the Island.”
