Work on flats grinds to halt (From Penarth Times)

Work on flats grinds to halt

THE developer behind the scheme to create luxury apartments on the site of the former Penarth Baths has pulled out of the project midway through the work.

And that means building work on the new 20-flat block on the site of the former car park has come to a standstill.

Stephen Fear, who as head of Decourcy Ltd was a leading partner in the development, told the Penarth Times: "I have withdrawn from the scheme to concentrate on other projects that I am involved with in the Bristol area.

"I understand the Rabaiotti family are now looking for a new partner in order to complete the project."

Mr Fear and his company were also behind the failed plans to redevelop the Beachcliff building on the Esplanade last year.

Vale of Glamorgan planners gave planning permission to convert the old baths building - built between 1883 and 1885 - into apartments.

They also gave permission for 20 newly-built flats on the site of the old car park behind the baths building.

It is understood that work to convert the Grade II listed baths building is now complete, and the developer is awaiting final approval from local authority inspectors to ensure conservation specifications have been met.

But work on the larger 20-flat project behind the baths site has halted while a new partner is sought to develop it.

In February 2004 Stephen Fear said: "We want to be on site by June or July and complete the development within a year (summer 2005).

"Vale planners have done the town a favour because the plan will enhance the area."

No-one from the Rabaiotti family was available for comment.