Plans for a major refurbishment of Cowbridge Town Hall have been revealed, with the project expected to cost around £3 million and building work currently anticipated between late 2028 and late 2029.
Cowbridge Town Council says the proposals are intended to tackle essential repairs to the historic building while improving accessibility and modernising its facilities for community use.
The council says maintenance costs are continuing to rise as the building ages, including the cost of roof repairs. It hopes investment in the building will reduce longer-term costs and create opportunities to generate additional income.
Public consultation has also identified accessibility, appearance and facilities as priorities.
Under the plans, the historic central entrance onto High Street would be reinstated as the building's main entrance, with a new stairway and ramp providing level access.
Inside, a new staircase and lift would provide access to the Main Hall, replacing the existing platform lift at the rear of the building. A new reception area is proposed, with the council office located behind it.
Both the Lesser Hall and Main Hall would be modernised, alongside a new kitchen and redesigned toilets. A bar is also proposed to support functions and events, while the stage dressing room would incorporate an accessible lift.
The council is considering a potential extension to the north-west of the building, which it says could provide additional space and improve the venue's ability to host destination events.
Changes are also proposed for the museum, including an altered visitor route, improved displays and the reinstatement of the 19th-century opening to the Council Chamber. The eastern exit onto Town Hall Square would also be redesigned as part of plans to provide a new gateway onto High Street.
The Town Hall dates from 1806, when it was built as a House of Correction, although its cells date back as early as the 16th century. The building has also served as a fire station and is now home to the Town Council Office and Chamber.
The council says urgent repairs are required to keep the building safe and usable, while discussions over the design are taking place with Cadw and the Vale of Glamorgan Council Conservation Team to ensure its heritage is protected.
The proposals remain at an early stage and the council has stressed that the artist's impressions released as part of the announcement are not final designs and could change as the project develops.
Options are being explored to keep parts of the Town Hall open during the refurbishment, although it is not yet known whether this will be possible or whether the building will need to close completely while work takes place.
The council estimates the project will cost around £3 million. It has submitted a successful Expression of Interest to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and has been invited to apply for a design-phase grant. Other grants, loans and donor funding will also be explored.
A grant application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund is anticipated around spring 2027, with refurbishment work currently expected to begin in late 2028 and be completed in late 2029.
Further public consultations are planned as the proposals develop, with full details available via https://issuu.com/cowbridgetc/docs/town_hall_refurbishment_press_release_v3
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