A former Barclays bank building in Cowbridge is being turned into a coworking space, guest accommodation and a juice and smoothie bar, with support from Vale of Glamorgan Council.
The council has backed the scheme through its Town Centre Loan Scheme and Commercial Improvement Grants. The project is led by local businesswoman Lyndsey Jenkins, founder of Cowbridge-based creative communications agency jamjar, which will move into the building when work is finished.
The investment forms part of the council’s wider work to support town centre regeneration across the Vale and bring vacant commercial properties back into use. The building will operate as The Old Bank and is due to open later this year.
Cllr Bronwen Brooks, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Places, said: “It’s fantastic to see this landmark building being brought back into use and given a new purpose at the heart of Cowbridge.
“Projects like The Old Bank show what can be achieved when local businesses have the support to invest in our town centres. Bringing empty properties back into use not only helps to strengthen our high streets, but also creates new opportunities for businesses, residents and visitors.
“We’re pleased to have supported this project through our grant and loan schemes, and we look forward to seeing The Old Bank open its doors.”
Lyndsey Jenkins, founder of The Old Bank and managing director of jamjar, said: “Having run a business in Cowbridge for more than 14 years, I’m incredibly passionate about the town and its High Street, so it’s exciting to be giving such a prominent building a new lease of life.
“Our vision for The Old Bank is to create a place that brings people into the heart of Cowbridge – whether that’s to work, meet, stay or simply spend time here. We want to create flexible workspace for the growing number of people working remotely or running their own businesses, while the guest accommodation and juice bar will bring a completely different mix of people into the building.
“Taking on a project of this scale is a significant investment and the support we’ve received from the Vale of Glamorgan Council has been invaluable in helping us bring our plans to life. We’re looking forward to opening the doors later this year and seeing The Old Bank become part of the next chapter of Cowbridge High Street.”
The Transforming Towns: Town Centre Loan Scheme is intended to help businesses and property owners bring vacant commercial premises back into use. Anyone interested in joining The Old Bank coworking space can find out more and register interest at theoldbankcowbridge.co.uk ahead of the opening later this year.
