Developers target derelict fire station (From Barry And District News)

Developers target derelict fire station

BARRY'S derelict town centre fire station is set to be given a new lease of life.

The Court Road premises, which have been empty for the past three years, will soon be sold to private developers.

The last people to make use of the premises were the Barry Amateur Boxing Club but were forced to vacate because of the conditions.

And the building is not only pest infested and run down but it also has a tree and shrubs growing inside.

Previous attempts to renovate the century old Grade II listed building have been unsuccessful.

The private builder who has yet to be disclosed by Vale of Glamorgan Council officials has bid £147,000 to take the eyesore off the authority's hands.

Developers will need to spend an estimated £650,000 before the building is safe for people to utilise.

Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, Jeffrey James said: "We marketed the building to possible developers with various plans which could be carried out.

"I am pleased that these important Barry premises will be protected for people to enjoy.

"It also means that the money raised from the sale will be put to good use for the capital projects such as schools.

"What developers will be doing with the station is unclear."

In a private report to the Vale of Glamorgan Council's cabinet, finance director Sian Davies said: "The deteriorating state of the building is a burden on the council's budgets. This is an unconditional, subject to contract offer from a single purchaser and the council's marketing agents strongly recommend acceptance.

"While the former fire station remains vacant it presents a target for graffiti, vandalism, fly-tipping and similar crime. The sale of the building should present the private sector with an opportunity to refurbish the building and bring it back into beneficial use. This should have a positive effect in reducing the crime and disorder associated with the vacant premises."