Wednesday 20 November 2024 marked an historic day for the people of Maesteg and the wider Llynfi Valley, as Maesteg Town Hall officially opened its doors to the public, following a highly ambitious, multi-million-pound redevelopment project delivered by the council and its partners at Awen Cultural Trust.
Huw Irranca-Davies, MS and Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberavon Maesteg joined Council Leader, Councillor John Spanswick and Mayor of Bridgend County Borough, Councillor Heather Griffiths to cut the ribbon and officially open the building to the waiting public.
The family of renowned local artist Christopher Williams also attended the opening along with other dignitaries to witness history being made.
Visitors were treated to a tour of the all-new and much improved facilities, while being entertained by choirs from local schools and a harpist, as well as visiting events in the brand-new library area.
The building has not only been returned to its former glory, but it also now boasts additional features including a new glass atrium, library and heritage centre, studio theatre and cinema space, along with a café and mezzanine bar.
The main auditorium has been fully restored to become a multi-functional performing arts venue once again and this includes a stage lift, dressing rooms and a bar. The balcony has also been retained and refurbished.
The two areas of the building are linked by a modern glazed atrium and foyer fronting Talbot Street. Disabled access has also been improved through the provision of a lift.
Preserving the building’s architectural heritage features, such as the brick archways, tiling, cornicing and columns have been a key part of the project. Historic paintings from Christopher Williams have also been restored and are now back on display in the main hall.
Council Leader, Councillor John Spanswick, said: “I am delighted and extremely proud to be standing here today with you all, to witness the much-anticipated reopening of Maesteg Town Hall – we have a fantastic arts and cultural venue, where the past meets the present and the whole of Bridgend County Borough can be extremely proud of.
“We know that a highly ambitious renovation project of this nature and scale, would not come without its challenges. And who could have anticipated a global pandemic striking just as we started out on this amazing journey?
“But I’m pleased to say, we have reached this historic day, and what you see before you is the culmination of true partnership working at its very best. I’d like to take this opportunity to applaud the excellent work of all teams involved, both within the local authority and all our external partners, who have worked tirelessly on this project to overcome some extremely complex challenges.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the market traders, businesses, residents, and visitors of Maesteg town centre for bearing with us while the renovation works have been underway.
“I hope you will agree that this much-loved, iconic building has not only been restored to its former glory but has been significantly enhanced to ensure that people of all ages and abilities in the Llynfi Valley and surrounding areas can visit and enjoy.”
Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, added: “If there is one word that is synonymous with Maesteg Town Hall – its heritage. Physical, social, and cultural heritage all rolled into one. The place oozes a celebration of the past while now giving opportunity and inspiration for future generations.
“The Hall represents the resilience and community spirit of the Llynfi Valley, and it is enduring tribute to all those who contributed to its building and its part in the life of the town over the last century or so. We must now celebrate, promote and shout loudly that we have one of the finest cultural venues in Wales here in the Llynfi Valley. Together we have protected the past, now we must enjoy its bright future.”
Huw Irranca-Davies, MS who addressed attendees at the official opening, said: “This hall is the beating heart of Maesteg. Built by the local community, for the local community many years ago. It has seen some remarkable performances and momentous occasions in its rich 140-year history. All credit goes to the excellent partnership working of the local community, business owners, the town council and local authority, along with Awen Cultural Trust who have persevered with this project, kept the faith, and delivered a fantastic facility the whole community can enjoy.”
The project has been funded by Bridgend County Borough Council, the European Regional Development Fund, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Welsh Government including CADW, Awen Cultural Trust, Maesteg Town Council, the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Davies Trust, and the Pilgrim Trust.
