To receive an update in relation to Y Gaer (The Brecon Cultural Hub) – Lucy Bevan – Arts and Commissioning Officer.
Minutes:
Members welcomed Lucy Bevan – Arts and Culture Commissioning Officer to the meeting for this item of business. During discussion and update particular reference was made to:
a. Funding – the project would cost in the region of £10 million, the local authority would be the main funder, however, there would be contributions from other organisations/areas
b. Design – the design had incorporated features from previous builds which, while adding to costs, would greatly add to the look and feel of the facility
c. Y Gaer Facilities (Services/Facilities) – the site would include public space, bookable rooms, a library and a museum. There would also be restaurant/café facilities on site. There would be car parking space and appropriate entry/exit areas
d. Captain’s Walk – the area had been included in the project and it would be re-modelled. The area belongs to the highways department and the Portfolio Holder for highways supports plans to develop
e. Branding/Identity – the site would have its own identity which would also reflect ‘belonging’ to Powys. It was agreed to circulate the branding guide to members for review/awareness
f. Community Benefits – opportunities for local benefit would be maximised. Members were informed that it had been recognised that the local economy had been lacking in terms of qualified catering staff. The café facility which would operate from the facility would be run in partnership with Neath and Port Talbot College (students would be able to benefit from use of the facility which would support their studies). There would be opportunities to involve learners in all aspects of the build, design and finish of the facility. Local suppliers would be used where possible for equipment and in the longer term to provide supplies. Lucy would e-mail the Community Development pack to members for their awareness
g. Volunteers – there’s a significant bank of volunteers supporting the library and museum (40 volunteers help with the museum, 12 volunteers help with the library). Using volunteers to support the operation of the site would be important and valued
h. Construction – the site is in the build phase which is due to last between 9 – 10 months
i. Museum – the museum would feature the history of wards within Brecknockshire
j. Site Visit – if appropriate the next meeting would be held at Y Gaer to include a tour of the site (it could be that building works may prevent the meeting being held on site)
k. Opening – if the build and fit go to plan the site would open in December, after a short period of operation there would be an official opening in the New Year
l. Brecon Library – options for the current library site would be considered by the property section once it had become vacant. It is likely that the property would be advertise for sale
m. Electric Car Charging Facilities – a member urged consideration of electronic charging meters at the car park in order to provide for future use of electric vehicles. Lucy would raise the issue with the group overseeing the project
It was agreed to provide the presentation to members for their reference.
Supporting documents: