Wraps off for a new-look Knap (From Barry And District News)

Wraps off for a new-look Knap

STUNNING plans to transform Barry's crumbling Knap Lido into the focal point of the west end have been revealed.

An artists impression of the new-look site was unveiled this week by the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

Initial work on the scheme, which was announced just weeks after the Town Hall plans, will begin on St David's Day. The total cost is estimated to be £300, 000.

But it is envisaged that once completed, the project will transform the derelict pool, which was once the jewel in the Knap's crown, to a stunning area of public open space.

Renovation work will cover 1.38 hectares and will link the extensive gardens and lake of Cold Knap with Watch Tower Bay and The Promenade. The scheme is due for completion by the end of June.

The project is led by engineering consultants Wardell Armstrong, of Cardiff, and will involve the demolition of the Lido and associated buildings, an infilling of the pool and the landscaping of the site prior to its return to public use.

This will create a park space with new footpaths following the outline of the pool, and semi circular seating blocks in the position of the former chalets

Vale of Glamorgan Councillors are enthusiastic about the scheme.

Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Leisure Cllr Michael Harvey said: "The council is delighted it can now progress the long-awaited scheme.

"The project has been a commitment of the current administration and, despite many gloomy predictions, is being delivered as promised."

Cllr Harvey added: "The Knap area is visited by many thousands of residents and visitors every year and the council has worked hard with consultants Wardell Armstrong to ensure the proposals are fitting and appropriate."

Discussions have been held with Cadw: Welsh Historic Monuments to try and retain the historical links between the use of the site as a Lido and the proposed regeneration scheme.

Council leader Cllr Jeffrey James said: "The scheme, with its major amenity and environmental benefits, will enhance the perspective of the area and encourage many more visits by local people and tourists."

Wardell Armstrong Partner Clare Hopkins added: "We are delighted to be working with the Vale Council to bring forward a scheme for the redevelopment of this important and prominent coastal site."