Following an update on the progress of the Grand Pavilion redevelopment in Porthcawl, Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet have agreed to some changes to the procurement process to reduce the risk of any delays to the project.
Earlier this year, the Council were awarded £18m Levelling Up Funding from the UK Government, following a successful application by the council working in close partnership with Awen Cultural Trust.
The project will improve the condition of the Grade II listed building by addressing the issue of concrete cancer whilst also creating new function rooms, office spaces and cafe facilities. Much needed improvements will also be made to the auditorium and plans also include an accessible “changing places” facility.
The existing conditions of the UK Government grant require the project to be completed by Spring 2025, with an expectation that a contractor will be in place and work will start by Spring 2024.
Due to these tight timescales, the council’s usual procurement guidelines have been suspended and permission has been granted to Awen to continue to procure the services of Purcell’s Architect’s from the PAGABO framework for the next stage of the design process.
Purcell’s are leading heritage architectural specialists and were appointed through a full procurement process to undertake the initial designs and also the planning application for the Grand Pavilion.
The Pavilion is set to close early in 2024, following this year’s Christmas programme and alternative options are currently being considered as to how Awen’s cultural and Arts programme can be delivered locally while the work is completed.
The redevelopment of the Grand Pavilion represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to safeguard this iconic building for many years to come so it’s really important that we do all we can to make sure that this project is delivered as smoothly as possible.
I’d also like to remind residents that they can currently have their say on the final proposals before they are submitted for formal planning in due course. The final proposals can be viewed online at Awen’s website and all feedback must be received by 31 October 2023.
Cllr Rhys Goode, Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration
