BIG Lottery funding has now been secured which will enable work to progress on a new build at Barry Community Water Activity Centre (BCWA).

The water centre, which currently operates from a temporary facility, can now progress plans on the design for its new home, on The Mole in Barry Docks - thanks to the £50,000 contribution.

The charity behind the centre, the Ocean Watersports Trust, said they are now also able to determine costings and, subsequently, move forward with submitting a planning application.

A trust spokesman said: "This will result in a major development, providing an iconic structure at the heart of the town."

The building will provide a community centre, available for a variety of activities, and new facilities for the already operational water centre, including new changing rooms.

Trust chairman Chris Basten said: “The Big Lottery has given the Ocean Watersports Trust an opening to add to the work already completed, which includes the provision of a slipway, and teaching and changing rooms.

"When we started this project a mere four years ago, we expected to make the centre available to six voluntary groups, but there were now 27 using the site, made up of around 1,700 people.

"None of the work done so far, or that which would be carried out in the future, could have been done without the support of the people of Barry, who, by just completing surveys, or vocally supporting the project, have been a major element in getting to this point.”

Mr Basten also said more money needs to be raised however, and that more volunteers are needed.

The trust invites anyone interested to contact the treasurer on 01446 741733.