A dedicated team of local enthusiasts is committed to preserving Porth's historic architecture while revitalizing the community spirit.
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Visitors to the town centers in the South Wales valleys frequently encounter a common sight: old, neglected structures that once served as community hubs, now left to decay. In Porth, a town located in the Rhondda, this situation is particularly evident.
Among the crumbling buildings are the remnants of the once-popular Apollo nightclub and a Grade II-listed bingo hall, both reduced to mere shadows of their former glory.
After a decade of neglect triggered by the discovery of a £1 million cannabis operation in the Apollo, these buildings have become eyesores symbolizing a community’s fading vibrancy.
The bingo hall, renowned for its history, has remained empty since 2009, following its last call of numbers. However, amidst this deterioration, a beacon of hope emerges as local business owners and builders unite to reclaim their town’s architectural heritage.
Community-Driven Restoration Efforts
A coalition of local entrepreneurs has taken the decisive step of purchasing the abandoned bingo hall, which was auctioned for a modest £18,000 in 2018. The previous owner had, according to local accounts, effectively abandoned the property, doing just enough to avoid responsibility. This group is committed to restoring the building, envisioning it as a multi-functional space that could serve as a music venue, a cinema, and even a gathering place for bingo enthusiasts.
Turning Vision Into Reality
The newly renamed Porth Central has gained notoriety for its dilapidated state, with local leaders like Rhondda MP Chris Bryant openly criticizing it in parliament. In 2022, he described the site as “hideous,” advocating for a levelling-up fund to address such neglected buildings. The visibility of the crumbling structure and ongoing grievances spurred the current owners into action. Their journey to ownership was somewhat serendipitous.
Initially, local businessman Dan Parry, who serves as the vice-chair of Porth’s chamber of trade, approached the former owner in 2020, motivated by community concerns. After learning of abandoned development plans for the site, Dan recognized a missed opportunity. “He seemed to have given up on the place,” Dan recalls. “When we expressed our desire to restore it, he simply suggested we do it ourselves.”
Local Ownership and Community Impact
The team consists of a mix of local builders and property owners who share a vested interest in revitalizing the town. Dan emphasizes that their connection to Porth is crucial in understanding the community’s needs. “Having grown up here, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for local people to invest in their surroundings. When a building is well-kept, it enhances the overall value of the area,” he states.
Addressing Challenges Ahead
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding this initiative, Dan acknowledges the significant work required to restore the building. Issues like asbestos removal and severe roof leaks will demand substantial effort and investment. Inside, historical artifacts remain, including unopened boxes of bingo slips and vintage cinema seats, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that underscores the building’s past prominence.
“Walking into the hall feels like stepping back in time,” Dan remarks. “There’s potential here, but it’s going to take a lot of hard work to bring it back to life.” As the group begins to clear the premises, community feedback will play a crucial role in shaping the vision for the future. A survey has been released to gather public input on what they would like to see in Porth Central.
Looking Towards a Bright Future
The ambition is to transform the bingo hall into a versatile venue that not only generates profit but also serves as a hub for community gatherings. Dan outlines the current plan: “We envision a space that can host a cinema one night and bingo the next. Live music events are also high on our agenda, filling a gap that Porth desperately needs.” Although the renovation process is still in its early stages, the excitement surrounding the project is palpable. Locals have expressed their support and encouragement upon seeing the owners working on-site.
“People are genuinely thrilled that we want to restore it instead of demolishing it. The community is ready for a revival, and we aim to deliver,” Dan concludes, emphasizing their commitment to giving Porth’s historic architecture a second chance.
