A HOUSING complex and community centre has opened in Penarth.

The development – at St Paul’s Church – was recently completed, with Vale of Glamorgan Council providing £400,000 from section 106 planning funds towards a £3 million project to create a community centre and social housing.

Delivered in partnership with Newydd Housing Association and Glamorgan Voluntary Service (GVS), a multi-purpose community centre has been built, along with 14 one and two-bedroom apartments, with the original church façade retained.

The development was approved by the council in 2018 and is now fully occupied.

Penarth Times:

The Council’s cabinet member for community engagement, equalities and regulatory services, Ruba Sivagnanam, attended the opening.

She said: “The opening of this new community hall for Penarth shows just what can be achieved when partners and communities come together.

“GVS, Newydd, and the Vale of Glamorgan Council have all played a role but most importantly the development of this community space has been guided by those residents and community groups that will use it. 

“The two halls, office and kitchen facilities will provide a base for charities and not-for-profit groups to provide activities and support for Penarth residents, as well as giving local people a space for parties and events."

She added that it has the potential to become a "genuine community hub".

Newydd was selected for the development in 2017 and has worked with residents, the council, and community groups to ensure that the plans fit the needs of the local community.

Jason Wroe, chief executive of Newydd said: “I can say on behalf of all Newydd staff that we felt very proud at the launch of the community centre at St Paul’s.

“Listening to GVS employees telling us that the centre is fully booked on numerous days during the week, without any promotion, is a great achievement.

“The community has certainly embraced the centre and its facilities and we look forward to continuing our partnership with GVS and even taking part in the activities and hiring the work space ourselves! We wish GVS all the best for the future.”