Updated plans for the redevelopment of the Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl were unanimously approved this week by Bridgend County Borough Council’s development control committee.

This means that enabling works to progress the redevelopment of the Grade II listed building can now move forward.

The iconic building was granted £18m of funding through the UK Government’s Levelling Up programme to redevelop and preserve the landmark following a successful bid by the council and its partners, Awen Cultural Trust.

Following a lengthy public consultation process, the final plans which went before planning yesterday, feature the conservation and repair of the some of the building’s iconic Art Deco features including the clock tower and stained-glass windows, alongside new extensions including a glazed, roof top pavilion with views out towards the Bristol channel, a passenger lift, auditorium, gallery, toilet facilities and supporting back of house areas.

The plans also include a sensitive restoration of the building’s original domed roof, with new insulation, and the original, unique marine-styled, weathervane being reinstated.

Councillor Rhys Goode, Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration, said: “This is excellent news for the Grand Pavilion, the Porthcawl community and the wider county borough.

“Our ambitious plans to transform this much-loved arts venue into a modern, cultural space are now a step closer. The vision is to give the history-rich building a new lease of life, enhancing its appeal to span multiple generations and ensure our county borough’s arts, culture, and heritage thrive offer for generations to come.”

Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, added: “We are delighted that planning permission has been granted for the Grand Pavilion. This marks the first of many significant milestones in a project which the whole community can be rightly proud of.

“I am particularly pleased that we have been able to incorporate the valuable feedback we received from local residents during our engagement sessions into our ambitious redevelopment plans. Together, we have been able to retain the very essence of the original design concept, which include much-needed improvements to accessibility, a brand-new studio theatre and the exciting roof-top pavilions; safeguarding the rich heritage and future of this much-loved theatre.”

Awen Cultural Trust are continuing to entertain audiences during the redevelopment period with a programme of ‘pop-up Pavilion’ events at the Awel-y-Mor Community Centre, Porthcawl and in other community venues. These monthly events will include jazz, comedy nights, tea dance, cinema, lunchtime theatre and family shows.

Image: Artist’s impressions of the front of the building following redevelopment.