The Hanging Gardens

Introduction

The Wilderness Trust has been funded by Arwain to undertake research and write a Feasibility Study on a range of derelict buildings in the centre of Llanidloes and for their conversion into community use. It identifies the current facilities in the town and the needs within the community and establishes the likely re-purposing of each element of the complex to meet those needs. 

Challenge

Up to 70 stakeholder groups/organisations were included in the study as well as feedback from over 340 people in two phases of consultation. The report sets out details of the history and structural elements of a complex of derelict buildings comprising Bethel Chapel, Bethel Hall, a row of Garages and a Community Garden, close to the centre of Llanidloes.

Solution

The re-purposing of the buildings is carrying on a long tradition with the Hall having been re-purposed three times already (from warehouse, to Welsh chapel, to social centre and hardware store). Each time the building has been adjusted to accommodate local needs without significant damage to the building. This report identifies needs within the community that can be met by sympathetic restoration of the buildings for contemporary functions.

Benefit

A total of 43 local businesses, 23 local groups and 120 individuals have expressed an interest in using the facilities, once they have been restored. It has been established that a wide range of the community will benefit from the project.

Result

The conclusion is that the Hall be used as an arts centre with the original 19th century stage being used once again for performances, films and lectures. Upstairs the Hall may house studios and offices. In the Chapel is proposed an indoor market with the Vestry and School Room used as a centre for the circular economy/food hub, with a flat above for a warden, a refugee family or other urgent need. The Garages can be restored and used as community workshops. A significant contribution to the study was made by a volunteer consultant who prepared the drawings accompanying the study.