Merthyr Valleys Homes has submitted a planning application to Merthyr Tydfil Council to repurpose a former community hall, the Bontnewydd Hall in Trelewis, into a bungalow adapted for individuals with complex care needs. The hall, previously leased by the trustees of Trelewis OAP Hall Association, had to cease operations due to a decline in attendance and volunteer availability exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to a covering letter accompanying the application by planning consultants Asbri Planning, the trustees of the hall association found it increasingly challenging to maintain and operate the hall effectively in the current circumstances. The application proposes the transformation of the hall into a bungalow equipped with facilities to accommodate those with complex care needs, including provisions for on-site carers.
The new bungalow aims to provide affordable housing options for individuals requiring specialised care, with features such as wheelchair access, widened doorways, and adapted amenities. Although no dedicated parking facilities are included in the proposal, on-street parking is available along Bontnewydd Terrace where the bungalow is situated.
The former community hall, which boasted a main hall, a stage, office space, a kitchen, and accessible toilets, was previously utilised by the OAP Hall Association for meetings, community events, and as a gathering space for local residents. An assessment of the site’s proximity to historical assets and risk factors, such as flooding, was conducted to determine the suitability of the repurposing project.
The planning consultants highlighted that the proposed development aligns with the character and appearance of the surrounding area, residential amenity, and sustainable transport provisions. The transformation of the hall into a bungalow tailored for individuals with complex care needs is viewed as a positive step towards repurposing the site effectively.
For the latest news from Merthyr Tydfil and to stay informed about developments in the region, interested readers can sign up for the newsletter to receive updates directly in their inbox. The potential conversion of the former community hall into a specialised bungalow marks a significant opportunity to repurpose the existing infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the community.