Blaengarw Workmen's Hall

To play a central role in the regeneration of the Garw Valley by being a vibrant, diverse and exciting cultural and educational centre where local people feel welcome and included.

Facilities: Blaengarw Workmen’s Hall comprises a 250 capacity auditorium with a stage and licensed bar, a childcare room, a dance studio, a training suite with 10 pc’s, offices and various general-purpose rooms. The premises are suitable for a wide variety of activities and events, reflected in our wide ranging classes and entertainment programmes. Many of the facilities are also available for private hire, at very competitive rates.

History: Originally built in 1893 and opened 5th March 1894, Blaengarw Workmen's Hall is a monument to the resourcefulness and commitment of the men who worked at the coal face in the mines of Blaengarw. Each contributed two pence a week from his wage packet towards the construction of a building which would house their academic, creative and cultural aspirations. At a grand cost of £3400, it held a well-stocked library and reading room, cinema and theatre, and soon became the main focus for community activities, sporting events and meetings of every description.

A near disaster in the mid-70’s lead to the closing of the hall, after a heating pipe ruptured, spewing carbon monoxide fumes through the cinema. Fifty-four children and teenagers and two adults were detained at Bridgend General Hospital after dozens passed out during a screening of Peter Pan. Thankfully, there were no fatalities.

After its rescue from dereliction by Valley and Vale Community Arts and the local community (funded by the Welsh Office and Bridgend County Borough Council), Blaengarw Workmen's Hall was officially reopened in 1992. Creation was formed in 2000 and took over the running of the premises on behalf of the local authority, with the aim of managing the building and once more making it the thriving heart of the community.

This achievement is a testament to the ideal that community regeneration really is attainable if local people are at its heart, supported by committed individuals and bodies with the experience, expertise and resources to make things happen.

email us at:
creationdev@hotmail.com