Community Group Reveals New Plans After Village Pub Takeover Falls Through
A community group in Carmarthenshire, which previously aimed to acquire the Angel Inn in Salem, north of Llandeilo, is now shifting its focus towards developing a cafe and events space at the nearby Salem Memorial Hall. Salem Gar’s initial attempt to run the pub as a community venture faced a setback when a planning application to convert the pub into homes was approved by the county council last year.
With a vision to revitalize the village and provide essential services, Salem Gar has set its sights on expanding Salem Memorial Hall in collaboration with the building’s owners, the charity Heol-Galed Memorial Hall and Institute. The new project, named Dyfodol Salem, has received £10,000 in funding from the Welsh Government and has already consulted residents on their preferences for the space.
Caroline Welch, a volunteer with Salem Gar, highlighted the community’s desire for a licensed cafe, event space, community garden, and children’s play area, all powered by renewable energy. The closure of the pub left a void in the village, with residents yearning for a social hub and recreational facilities. Salem Gar recognised this need and redirected community pledges towards the memorial hall project.
The community’s response to the new campaign has been overwhelmingly positive, with volunteers like Aled Williams emphasising the importance of a community building, especially evident during recent challenges like a prolonged power outage. The prospect of a sustainable, off-grid site offering essential amenities resonates with residents, reinforcing the village’s resilience and unity.
The £10,000 grant from the Welsh Government’s Perthyn initiative signifies a significant milestone for Salem Memorial Hall’s development. Salem Gar chairman Peter Harries expressed gratitude for the grant, underscoring the central role of the Welsh language in the community’s identity and future growth. The hall continues to host various events, from bowls to music nights, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.
As plans for the hall’s extension progress, including a potential planning application, the community remains engaged and supportive of Dyfodol Salem’s evolution. Recent events like a successful Burns night celebration with live music exemplify the hall’s potential as a cultural and social hub. The dedication of volunteers and residents alike bodes well for the transformation of Salem Memorial Hall into a vibrant community space.
The commitment to preserving the village’s heritage while forging a sustainable future encapsulates the essence of Salem Gar’s endeavours. With a clear vision, collaborative spirit, and crucial support from funding bodies, the community group is poised to breathe new life into Salem Memorial Hall, fulfilling the residents’ aspirations for a thriving and inclusive village centre.
In conclusion, the resilience and determination displayed by Salem Gar reflect a shared commitment to nurturing community spirit and fostering a vibrant future for Salem and its residents. The transition from pub takeover to memorial hall development signifies a new chapter in the village’s journey, marked by innovation, unity, and a steadfast dedication to enhancing the quality of life for all.