Plans for the redevelopment of Cosy Corner in Porthcawl are set to receive a boost following a provisional funding agreement with the Welsh Government and WEFO, subject to Bridgend Council Cabinet approval (pdf).
Construction of a Maritime Centre (pictured) at the site halted in February 2020 when contractors pulled out after Credu Ltd (formerly the Porthcawl Harbourside Community Interest Company) – which was leading the project – went into administration and was eventually liquidated.
As the land for the Maritime Centre was being leased to Credu by BCBC, BCBC retook control of the site. In December 2020, Bridgend Council was left with no choice but to pull the plug on the Maritime Centre and consider a more modest alternative project.
There’s no definitive plan yet. However, the alternative proposal is for a new centre for community organisations(such as the Sea Cadets), retail, extra marina facilities and public space – including an accessible Changing Places facility, outdoor play area, landscaping and an outdoor events area.
The main issue has been funding, but the Welsh Government and WEFO have offered to put £1million towards the new project, with just over £1.1million coming from Bridgend Council’s capital budget, reserves and pre-agreed match funding.
Due to the terms and conditions of the Welsh Government/WEFO funding, the project will need to be completed by December 2022 – should BCBC’s Cabinet accept the funding offer.
