Builth Wells venue is beginning to stand on its own feet financially

One of Builth Wells’ major venues is beginning to stand on its own feet financially.

The historic Strand Hall in the town was acquired by Builth Wells Town Council from Powys County Council in 2008.

The objective was to renovate it and return it to community use.

Although the hall has since hosted many meetings, conferences, shows, weddings and other events, its financial position has always been uncertain.

But members of the town council were told at the May meeting that the Strand Hall is finally turning a corner.

Town clerk Louise Hammond said: “The Strand Hall budget currently has approximately £62,000 in it, and it generated £22,000 in income last year.

“It is currently paying for its own utilities, and I hope it can start contributing toward its rates this year. It is moving in the right direction.”

Home to Builth Wells Town Council it is also used by many groups or hired for events. The main hall offers a large space that can be used for a wide variety of activities from dances to stage productions, parties and even wedding receptions.

Members were pleased to hear the positive financial news and Councillor Gwyn Davies said he felt if it had not been for the Covid years when the hall had to close, it would be on a much stronger financial footing.

Builth Wells Town Council acquired the Strand Hall from Powys County Council for £1,000 in 2008 with the objective of renovating the building and returning it to community use.

Originally built in 1879, the building has seen a variety of uses, including as a munitions factory and a skating rink, as well as its more obvious role as a venue for public meetings, concerts and other entertainments. It also boasts the finest ‘sprung’ floor for dancing in Mid-Wales.

It was built by Oliver Morgan Bligh, of Cilmery Park. He was a distant relative of Captain William Bligh, who was famously forced off his ship, HMS Bounty, by his mutinous crew in 1789.

The Strand Hall was given to the town in 1945 by the major Builth benefactor Thomas Lant JP, who also bequeathed it substantial playing fields.

Builth Wells Town Council acquired the Strand Hall from Powys County Council for £1,000 in 2008 with the objective of renovating the building and returning it to community use.

Prince Charles officially reopened the venue in July 2018.

Members were told the town council’s finances are also in a strong position having successfully passed the internal audit.