A £3 million housing development and community centre are now open at St Paul's Church in Penarth after five years of planning.

Developed in partnership with Newydd Housing Association and Glamorgan Voluntary Services (GVS), 14 one and two-bedroom apartments for affordable rent as well as a multi-purpose community centre have been built, and the original church façade has been retained. 

The Vale council provided £400,000 from section 106 planning funds. Approval for the project was made by the council in 2018 and the development is now fully occupied. 

Newydd Housing Association was chosen as the preferred bidder in 2017 and the housing association has worked with local residents, the council and groups to ensure plans meet the needs of the Penarth community. 

Ruba Sivagnanam, the cabinet member for Community Engagement, Equalities and Regulatory Services attended the grand opening. "The opening of this new community hall for Penarth shows just what can be achieved when partners and communities come together," she said. 

Approval for the project was made by the council in 2018 and the development is now fully occupied. (Image credit: Vale of Glamorgan Council)

"GVS, Newydd and the Vale of Glamorgan Council have all played a role but most importantly the development of this community space has been guided by those local residents and community groups that will use it.  

"The two halls, office and kitchen facilities will provide a base for charities and not-for-profit groups to provide activities and support for Penarth residents, as well as giving local people a space for parties and events. 

"This space is the centrepiece of the St Paul's redevelopment and thanks to Newydd's local lettings policy has the potential to become a genuine community hub." 

Jason Wroe, chief executive of Newydd, added: "I can say on behalf of all Newydd staff that we felt very proud at the launch of the community centre at St Paul's. 

"Listening to GVS employees telling us that the centre is fully booked on numerous days during the week, without any promotion, is a great achievement. 

"The community has certainly embraced the centre and its facilities and we look forward to continuing our partnership with GVS and even taking part in the activities and hiring the workspace ourselves! We wish GVS all the best for the future."