Much of last night's (Monday 22 September) Vale Council cabinet meeting sought to dispel fears surrounding the future of Penarth's beloved Kymin.

Vale councillors criticised town councillors and the media for misrepresenting the issue and "stirring up panic".

"I am disappointed that there are certain local town councillors who are unable to read a report prior to making comments and have stirred up panic in people who share our passion for the building," commented Cllr Ben Gray, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health.

Vale councillors attempted to clear up any confusion surrounding the terminology used in the report, which they said was later misrepresented.

"If I'm a resident who hears the language 'disposal' and doesn't have access to the very detailed report that's been written I can imagine I would feel similar panic about the asset," continued Cllr Gray.

"Sometimes, the legal language we use gets in the way of understanding. Marketing seems to imply we're going for the largest amount of money possible. But no, we're going for sustainable public use," added Deputy Leader Cllr Lis Burnett.

"I know how well-loved the Kymin is. I think some people have totally misunderstood the terminology the Council uses. 'Disposed of' just means we don't have any use for it within the local authority… We all would love to see it stay within community use and to see the building and grounds thrive," chimed in Cllr Kathryn McCaffer, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Arts and Culture.

Cabinet members also took issue with reports that the Kymin is due to be "sold-off".

In fact, the Kymin is being advertised for a long-lease opportunity, contrary to the BBC's report that the Vale intends to sell the property.

They say they will select the leaser scrupulously and after a lengthy discussion process.

"We're fairly open-minded, but from our perspective it has to have benefits for the town. We're not flogging it off to anyone who wants a nice house and a nice garden, it's got to be a good fit," said Cllr Burnett.

"It's disappointing when people start rumours and then people start panicking because they don't understand exactly what's going on," added Cllr Margaret Wilkinson, Cabinet Member for Housing and Social Care.

"I think people need to start reading things because most people don't," concluded Cllr Neil Moore.

Penarth Nub News has approached Penarth Town councillors for comment. Updates to follow.