Tylorstown Welfare Hall in the Rhondda Fach has received a much-needed lifeline, securing a grant of £4.7 million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. This Grade II listed building, which has stood for nearly 90 years as a testament to the coal mining heritage of the region, was facing the risk of being lost to history due to its deteriorating condition. The hall was originally constructed in 1933 through contributions from miners’ wages, colliery companies, and the Miners’ Welfare Fund. It served as a community hub, offering a dance hall doubling as a cinema, a library, and a snooker hall. Despite facing challenges such as limited resources and a flood in 2019, the fabric of the building remained largely unchanged over the years.
The recent grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund will not only ensure the preservation of Tylorstown Welfare Hall but also enable crucial renovations to its architectural features. These enhancements will expand the building’s capacity to provide essential services to the local community, a vital lifeline in an area where similar structures have succumbed to the passage of time. The project aims to improve accessibility by installing new lifts, ramps, and toilet facilities to accommodate all members of the community. Additionally, plans include creating versatile spaces for community groups and businesses to utilise, as well as upgrading kitchen facilities to enhance services.
Rebecca Sullivan, the project director for Tylorstown Community Hall, expressed immense gratitude for the support received, acknowledging the significance of preserving this historical landmark in a deprived area. Over the past five years, the community has rallied to advocate for the preservation of the hall, viewing it as a symbol of their identity and history. The funding not only safeguards the building but also establishes it as a beacon of opportunity and inclusivity, fostering pride in the region’s heritage and optimism for the future.
Andrew White, The National Lottery Heritage Fund director for Wales, emphasised the importance of investing in heritage as a means of supporting community well-being. Tylorstown Welfare Hall has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly a century, embodying the resilience and collective spirit of its residents. Beyond preserving mining heritage, the project is poised to boost the local economy and contribute to the regeneration of Tylorstown, underscoring the enduring impact of historical preservation efforts.
As the last remaining miners’ welfare hall in the Rhondda Fach, Tylorstown Welfare Hall holds a special place in the hearts of locals, serving as a cultural touchstone and a reminder of the community’s strength. With the extensive renovations funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the hall is set to continue its legacy as a hub for artistic, educational, and community activities, facilitating social connections and learning opportunities for residents. The transformation of Tylorstown Welfare Hall signifies a commitment to preserving Wales’ rich history and creating a vibrant, inclusive space for generations to come.