Plans to redevelop the Muni Arts Centre in the heart of Pontypridd have been approved by councillors. A planning application and an application for listed building consent from the council were approved by Rhondda Cynon Taf’s planning committee on Thursday, June 8.
The plans for the Grade II-listed municipal building in Gelliwastad Road involve the conservation and repair of the building, including the refurbishment of the auditorium, remodelling of the entrance foyer, bar, and mezzanine, installation of new passenger lifts, toilets, dressing rooms, and Changing Places facilities as well as a bin store and associated improvements to back of house areas. The planning report said that the building has been operated as an important venue for arts and culture for a number of decades however, due to financial constraints and lack of investment, the building suffered decline and eventually closed its doors in 2018.
It added that the council recognises the importance of this building as a cultural facility to the community and visitors to the region and a new lease agreement with an experienced third sector venue operating company, Awen Cultural Trust, has been reached. The council acknowledges that the building will need investment to give it a new lease of life and to reflect both the value and significance of Pontypridd’s arts and culture in the quality of the facilities provided.
