Awen Cultural Trust has recently been awarded a grant from the Welsh Government Capital Transformation Grant Scheme to reconfigure and modernise Pencoed Library. We are a registered charity, which manages library services on behalf of Bridgend County Borough Council and will provide match funding to install solar panels on the south-facing roof, contributing to creating a more sustainable building.
Pencoed Library will close later in the Autumn and re-open in early 2023 for its 50th anniversary year.
The plans will include:
- Updating all the outdated furniture with more mobile options to ensure that the space can be utilised allowing there to be more flexibility for activities and events.
- Creating a new work/study space to help support those working remotely, those who need a quiet workspace, young people who want somewhere quiet to do school work, university work, or to complete any work in a quiet space, allowing them to focus on their school or studies.
- Building a community meeting room for local groups and support services to use.
Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, said:
“Pencoed Library is serving a growing population of over 12,000 people, but its existing layout has remained more-or-less the same for 49 years. We are grateful to the Welsh Government for their funding, which will allow us to make modifications and freshen up the space for the benefit of the whole community. As part of Awen’s commitment to tackling climate change and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels for energy, we are pleased to use this refurbishment opportunity to install solar panels on the roof at Pencoed Library.”
Announcing the funding, Deputy Minister for Arts and Sport, Dawn Bowden said:
“The Welsh Government remains committed to supporting these important services that fulfil a valuable role at the heart of community life. This fund will widen access for our communities, promote cultural engagement, provide learning opportunities and support community cohesion, sustainability and prosperity. I encourage everyone to see what their local museum, archive or library has to offer.”
Cllr Rhys Goode, Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Future Generations, said: “This grant is fantastic news for Pencoed and the surrounding area. Libraries play an incredibly important part in our communities, for people of all ages and backgrounds.
“Our successful partnership with Awen will help us to create modern spaces that provide people with the services they most need, such as remote working areas, as well as welcoming spaces to read, work and socialise within the local community.”
