A dedicated community group has launched a campaign to bring an empty historic building back to life for local families. The volunteers want to transform the Old Civic Hall in Conwy into a vibrant hub celebrating Welsh culture and protecting the landmark for future generations.
Plans for the building
Members of Pwyllgor Cymraeg Aberconwy hope to secure the site's future by creating a multi-purpose space focused on community activities. The experienced team has been organising popular bilingual and Welsh language music events across the region since 2023. The ambitious plans include retaining a theatre space on the top floor and opening a unique food and drink area on the ground floor. The venue would seat more than 250 people for live music and performances, boosting the local night-time economy.
Funding and community involvement
The campaign group has secured funding from the Architectural Heritage Fund to carry out initial surveys and community surveys. Residents are invited to share their views through an online questionnaire or by attending a public drop-in session. Morgan Dafydd, speaking on behalf of the campaign, said: “Initial ideas include retaining the multi-purpose theatre space on the second floor, and developing a unique food and drink offering on the ground floor.” He added: “The theatre on the top floor is a unique space within the town which would be able to host audiences of 250+ seated and is well-suited for live music events, which would strengthen the 'night entertainment' offer in the town.”
Next steps
The group wants to gather local feedback before submitting a formal asset transfer request to Conwy County Borough Council. Organisers hope to eventually hand the building over to a new not-for-profit company that will secure grants to renovate the venue. Morgan Dafydd continued: “The drop-in meeting will be an opportunity for us to gather ideas from the local community and to share our vision.” He added: “We are also developing a robust and viable business plan to submit an 'expression of interest' application to Conwy County Borough Council (the current owners) by the end of July.”
Support and contact
He continued: “Our hope is to secure a Community Asset Transfer to a new not-for-profit company that would seek grant funding to renovate the building and run it on a day-to-day basis.” The campaign is supported by Menter Iaith Conwy, a community organisation that promotes and increases the everyday use of the Welsh language. Morgan Dafydd added: “We'd love if you were able to come along to our drop-in session to hear more, but if this isn't possible, please feel free to contact us for more information on 07840843814 or via pwyllgoraberconwy@gmail.com” He concluded: “Hopefully we can count on your support with this bold and exciting plan to transform this unused building and bring it back to life.”
Drop-in session details
The public drop-in session to learn more about the plans will take place on Tuesday, July 21, from 3-8pm, at Comrades Club, Conwy. Free entry to this session.
