Plans for New College Campus on Disused Land in Barry Approved

Plans for a new college campus on disused land in Barry have been given the green light. The Cardiff and Vale College will build the “state of the art” Barry Waterfront Campus on land located south of Hood Road. Expected to open by late 2026, this campus is part of a larger £100 million scheme that includes replacing the Cardiff and Vale College Colcot Road site and proposing a new campus near Cardiff Airport, pending a separate application.

• The new campus will cater to up to 1,000 full-time and part-time students along with nearly 80 staff members.
• It will feature active street frontages hosting a hair and beauty salon and a student-run restaurant open to the public.
• Leader of Vale of Glamorgan Council, Cllr Lis Burnett, described the approval as “wonderful news,” envisioning the Waterfront campus as a transformative development for Barry.

One of the councilors, Cllr Mark Hooper from Plaid Cymru Vale of Glamorgan Council ward member for Baruc, expressed satisfaction with the plans, anticipating an influx of visitors to Barry’s retail center and the surrounding area. The site will also include amenities like a gym, outdoor garden terrace, IT rooms, and dining spaces.

• The campus’s upper floors will incorporate these facilities in addition to a courtyard with seating and grass lawn.
• Notably, the campus will be environmentally sustainable and contribute to local regeneration efforts.
• The new location is aimed at providing enhanced education and vocational training opportunities in Barry.

The primary access route to the new site will be from Ffordd y Mileniwm, which currently serves as the access road for Ysgol Gymraeg Sant Baruc, with sufficient parking and cycle storage available on-site. Cardiff and Vale College group chief executive, Mike James, shared his delight at the Vale of Glamorgan’s approval, highlighting the institution’s commitment to delivering top-notch educational environments for learners and the community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the approved plans for the new college campus in Barry signify a significant investment in education and training in the region. By revitalizing a disused brownfield site, the development aims to offer cutting-edge educational opportunities while contributing to local regeneration and sustainable practices. With construction underway, the Barry Waterfront Campus is on track to become a hub of learning and innovation in the heart of the community.