An update has been issued on Penarth Athletic Club which was demolished by a fire earlier this month.
A blaze broke out at the historic clubhouse in the early hours of Monday, December 1.
Over a century of sporting history was ruined and the multi-sport hub was forced to close, leaving the community ‘devastated.’
A spokesperson for Penarth Rugby Club said: “We would like to share some positive news and confirm that following constructive talks with Vale of Glamorgan Council, Insurers and Loss Adjusters, the Buildings Insurance claim has been accepted in full.
“It has been confirmed that the cellar and toilet block are damaged beyond repair so council contractors will, after a short break for Christmas, complete the process of demolition and clearing the site of rubble and debris.
“The plan is to have the area stripped back to the concrete slab by end of January 2026. Whilst this is ongoing, we will be meeting with Vale of Glamorgan Council to discuss our requirements for the design and planning of the replacement building.
“In preparation for this the Athletic Club Committee will meet in early January to start planning the consultation between all sections and the community to ensure all voices are represented.”
Penarth Athletic Club is home to Penarth RFC, Penarth Cricket Club, Penarth Ladies’ Hockey Club, and Penarth Men’s Hockey Club, making it one of the town’s most important sporting hubs.
The remains of the 120-year-old clubhouse were reduced to a burned-out shell, with smoke still rising hours after the fire was out.
A community-led online fundraiser was launched, which aimed to support rebuilding work, replace lost memorabilia, and help teams continue to train and compete while recovery plans are developed.
Over £23,000 has been raised, with donations coming from former players, supporters, and well-wishers from across the UK.
The spokesperson for Penarth Rugby Club continued: “Alongside the buildings claim we are also full steam ahead on getting the Long Room Bar and our other facilities back open on a temporary or semi-permanent basis so that the club can continue in some form in the short and medium term.
“Further updates on this will follow in due course. Following a tough month, we feel this is great news to enter the festive period and would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.”
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