STUNNING new stained-glass windows were unveiled at Penarth's St Paul’s Community Centre in what was an emotional presentation, particularly for one councillor.
Vale Council leader Lis Burnett almost shed a tear as she said a few words during the unveiling on Arcot Street, describing the windows as a “beacon” that will shine down on the community.
Watch the video below as Cllr Burnett gets emotional about the window
The windows were designed by local artist Sarah Sweeney and manufactured by Lightworks Stained Glass.
Ms Sweeney said the whole project inspired her.
“I was really inspired by how connected people were to St Paul's and the history of the building in the local area as a landmark of a bygone era," she said.
“I felt the windows were a unique and beautiful way of consolidating all those stories and commemorate all the people that have built this community.”
Watch our interview with Sarah, here.
Dan Burke, director at Lightworks Stained-Glass, based in Lancashire, produced and installed the windows.
On the project, he said: “We worked closely with Sarah to bring her designs to life, all based on ideas and stories from the community.
“It has been challenging and rewarding in equal measure.”
Newydd worked in partnership with the Vale of Glamorgan Council as part of a £3 million development, part-funded by the Welsh Government, to provide 14 apartments for affordable rent to people working and living in the area as well as a community centre, now managed by Glamorgan Voluntary Services (GVS).
Keeping the façade of the church, contractors, WK Plasterers Ltd, were appointed to redevelop the former church, with the redevelopment completed in 2020.
Rachel Honey-Jones, head of community regeneration at Newydd Housing said the number of individuals and companies involved was incredible.
“These windows are an absolute masterpiece that we are all incredibly proud of at Newydd,” said Ms Honey-Jones.
“It hasn’t been straightforward due to the challenges of Covid, the skill required to produce the windows and the number of stakeholders involved, but the results make it all worthwhile, allowing us to provide fantastic stained-glass windows for all the community to enjoy.”
Cllr Burnett said she was thrilled with the development.
“It exceeds all expectations,” said Cllr Burnett.
“After the demolition of the Billy Banks, this part of Penarth was sorely lacking in spaces where local residents could come together. This building puts that right.”
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