Bridgend Council’s Planning Committee has unanimously approved plans for a £20million renovation of Porthcawl’s Grand Pavilion (pictured). The project is being mainly financed by the UK Government’s “Levelling-Up Fund”.
The proposals (pdf) – which are also subject to a separate listed buildings consent (pdf) – include:
- Art Deco features will be retained and restored.
- An extension to the rear of the lower ground floor to provide better back-of-house facilities, including improved dressing rooms and a new green room.
- An extension to the eastern half of the lower ground floor, with a new smaller studio/performance space, a bar and kitchens.
- The public toilets will be upgraded, with a much bigger female toilet. An accessible changing places facility will also be provided on the lower ground floor.
- Separate cafe and conference facilities on the ground floor, accessible off the main entrance. A gallery will be built in the eastern extension too.
- An accessible roof terrace on the first floor, as well as a function room and bar.
- A kiosk will be added to the ground floor of the auditorium alongside some accessibility improvements.
There were no objections from statutory consultees, though there were some concerns about noise and dust during construction from Porthcawl Town Council and nearby residents.
Addressing some of these concerns, one of the planning conditions is that a construction management plan is included to deal with dust and noise.
The reaction from committee members was largely positive – particularly the design.
A question from Cllr. Mark John (Ind, St. Bride’s Minor & Ynysawdre) about what lessons had been learned from the Maesteg Town Hall project was refused as it wasn’t dealing specifically with the planning application. That has, however, been touched on in previous meetings.
Cllr. Della Hughes (Ind, Ogmore Vale) asked whether there was sufficient space for disabled access/drop-off. Councillors were told that a coach bay to the side of the Pavilion would be converted for use as a drop-off point. Five disabled parking bays will also be provided.
