Llanelli Library Set to Undergo Major Transformation
By [Your Name], Staff Reporter
Exciting developments are underway in Llanelli as plans are in place to convert the local library into a vibrant community hub. A substantial grant of £250,000 from the Welsh government has been awarded to Llanelli Rural Council to kickstart the renovation of the Llwynhendy Branch Library. This transformation will not only include the refurbishment of the library building but will also introduce a host of new facilities for the community to enjoy.
The revamp will see the addition of a cafe, a new play area, pathways, and even an amphitheatre within the premises. Already some work has commenced at the adjacent Gwili Fields, with further external renovations set to be completed by the end of the year. The main library building is projected to be fully refurbished by spring 2025, bringing about a significant enhancement to the area.
Community consultation has been at the heart of this project since its inception over four years ago in 2019. The involvement of local residents and stakeholders has ensured that the new community hub caters to the needs and desires of the Llwynhendy community. Cllr Deryk Cundy, Chairman of the rural council’s recreation and welfare committee, expressed his excitement for the project, highlighting the positive impact it will have on bringing people together.
The current state of the library, which first opened in 1983, has been deemed uninviting and in need of a facelift. Despite its shortcomings, the branch library serves as a vital resource for schools and community groups in the area. The upcoming project aims to not only improve the building’s aesthetics but also to establish stronger connections with its surroundings, creating a more inclusive and welcoming space for all.
Council Leader, Cllr S. N. Lewis, praised the grant from the Welsh government as a significant milestone for the people of Llwynhendy. The funding will enable the construction of a modern entrance foyer, additional amenities, and a fresh look for the building. The collaboration between various stakeholders, including Carmarthenshire County Council and Our Llwynhendy, signifies a united effort to enrich the community’s quality of life.
The new hub is designed to accommodate various community needs, offering spaces for social gatherings, IT services, library resources, social housing assistance, and a community cafe. Llanelli Rural Council will oversee the management of the hub, with plans to appoint a dedicated manager to oversee its operations. The long-term leasing of the building ensures its sustainability and accessibility for the local residents.
The support from Our Llwynhendy, which has committed substantial funding towards the project, reflects a shared vision for a better future for the village. Besides enhancing recreational facilities, the project aims to promote sustainability and community cohesion. Natasha Horne, Chairperson of Our Llwynhendy, highlighted the community’s aspirations to create a lasting legacy for generations to come.
In conclusion, the transformation of the Llanelli library into a dynamic community hub signifies a significant step towards fostering community engagement and revitalising public spaces. The collaborative efforts of various partners and the backing of the Welsh government underscore a shared commitment to enhancing the well-being and cohesion of the Llwynhendy community. As work progresses on this ambitious project, residents can look forward to a more inclusive and vibrant hub that caters to a wide range of needs and interests.