About Us
What we do
We operate a range of cultural facilities and activities, which include theatres, libraries, community centres, a country house and park and two work-based projects for adults with learning disabilities.
Theatres
Awen Cultural Trust manages three much-loved theatres: the Grand Pavilion in Porthcawl, Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall and The Metropole (Met) in Abertillery.
Progress continued on the multi-million-pound redevelopment of Maesteg Town Hall and Levelling Up Funding has been secured for a major refurbishment of the Muni in Pontypridd.
Working with local authority partners, we can connect, strengthen and support communities through engaging arts and cultural experiences
Creative Wellbeing
Working within arts and health, our creative wellbeing work seeks to make significant, lasting social impact on communities, groups and individuals.
We support the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act (2016) within the work we deliver, including celebrating our thriving Welsh culture and language in all its diversity. Our creative wellbeing work focuses on four main areas: social isolation, environment, access and education.
Libraries
Awen directly manages six full-time libraries, two part-time community libraries and the Books on Wheels home delivery service across Bridgend.
We also support and stock two community libraries in venues staffed and managed by Halo Leisure and manage a large book reserve. Our Local and Family History resource in Maesteg houses a substantial collection of research materials.
Bryngarw House and Country Park
Bryngarw first appeared in the 1569 land records and it is believed the House was built in the mid-1700s by the Popkin family of Glamorgan.
Bryngarw was officially opened to the public as a country park in May 1986. It has since won many accolades including Green Flag and Green Heritage status, recognising it as one of the UK’s best green spaces.
B-Leaf and Wood-B
At B-Leaf and Wood-B we offer hands-on, work-based learning opportunities in horticulture, grounds maintenance and carpentry.
Our trainees are supported by a team of dedicated and experienced staff who help them to develop new skills at their own pace, make new friends and feel part of a community, and lead more independent and fulfilled lives.
Awen Community Centres
Awen manages two community centres – Awel-y-Mor in Porthcawl and Betws Life Centre – which are well used private hire venues offering affordable spaces for a whole range of social and fitness groups, events and activities.
