A 15-bedroom hotel in the scenic Afan Valley, Afan Lodge, faces the imminent threat of closure as its owners have proposed shutting down the establishment. The decision to close the venue was announced by the owners, citing ongoing financial losses that are unsustainable. Operating alongside the hotel is a bar and restaurant, known for its popular Sunday lunches. The hotel, previously a Miners’ Institute, was transformed into Afan Lodge in 2009, primarily catering to bike enthusiasts in the area.
In 2019, the Pen y Cymoedd Wind Farm Community Fund CIC (PyC CIC) acquired Afan Lodge in an effort to revive the business for the benefit of the Afan Valley and surrounding communities. However, following the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the lodge struggled to regain momentum after briefly reopening in March 2020. The PyC CIC, established by energy company Vattenfall to support communities affected by the Pen y Cymoedd Wind Farm development, has invested £1.5 million in Afan Lodge through various financial means.
Despite their efforts, the PyC CIC and Afan Lodge directors have been unsuccessful in selling the property over the past six months. As part of the closure proposal, a 30-day consultation period with the 30 staff members has commenced, potentially resulting in job losses. Individual staff members will be engaged to discuss implications and provided with job seeker support during this period.
Afan Lodge assures customers that existing bookings will be honoured until the proposed closure date of Monday, November 4. Bookings beyond this date will be contacted accordingly. The announcement of the potential closure has sparked significant reactions on social media, with over 200 comments expressing sadness over the news. Many locals and previous visitors voiced their dismay at the possibility of losing such a beloved establishment in the community.
Efforts to find a buyer for Afan Lodge continue as the PyC CIC remains dedicated to supporting the staff through the consultation process. Meanwhile, guests are assured that their bookings will be managed appropriately in light of the impending closure. The future of Afan Lodge now hangs in the balance as the community waits to see what unfolds for this iconic venue nestled in the heart of the Afan Valley.