A Community Hub for Llywnhendy
Chris Jones and Roberts Limbrick have just completed for Llanelli Rural Council in partnership with Our Llwynhendy, a vision, plans and drawings that look to provide new community facilities in Llwynhendy. The 6 month process provided a number of opportunities for the local community and stakeholders to participate in shaping the final proposals. From best practice trips to Ammanford and Brynamman, a local stakeholder workshop through to a number of community consultations, the process was been accessible and inclusive. Even with the arrival of the coronavirus pandemic in March 2020, the study process adapted and reached out to as many people as possible through traditional and online methods.
The community need for a place that brings together community life, a place to meet friends, learn and enhance life skills as well as celebrate occasions has been a key priority for many years, with the Field seen as a place for events, informal get together and for young children to play. The study therefore responded in building on the legacy of the existing library building that is not wasteful but valuing its presence and impact to local residents and building on this with a refreshed and extended footprint. In the drawings shown it is intended that the existing building be clad over giving it a fresh and contemporary feel. The existing boarded up windows will be refurbished, and additional glazing added giving the building a welcoming and active outlook with a refreshed library space and meeting rooms. To the north of the existing building will be the extended accommodation. Working with the existing building the new extension creates a strong edge to the eastern side of Gwili Field. The extension will provide flexible spaces which will complement the existing building.
The proposals for the field look to create a facility which helps to support the leisure needs of the community through mixed age facilities and uses. To north of the hub extension, a restful wetland garden area would be created. Near the existing MUGA it is proposed to provide a new organic and natural children’s play area. In the northern corner of the site an element of new tree planting has been undertaken. It is intended to extend and enhance this to create a natural copse element. This will include the provision of picnic tables and permanent built barbecue facilities which will help to encourage social activities and gatherings.
Chris Jones commenting on the vision and business plan for Llwynhendy said “Coronavirus has also shown to us the goodness and spirit of people, with them being neighbourly, helping out and looking out for each other. This is at the heart of Llwynhendy with a new community hub and improved field area supporting the future sense of belonging and the wider well-being of its residents. We really hope that our plans show what is possible and help unlock opportunity in the neighbourhood!”