THE VALE of Glamorgan Council has won a national award for its role in protecting and preserving the Dock Offices as part of the built environment.

No such accolade has been granted in respect of the Town Hall, which, unlike the Dock Offices has remained empty and neglected since 1981.

Just over 11 years ago, concerned about the general state of Barry Town Hall, a Grade II listed building, Barry Citizens' Action Group entered a competition promoted by a national organisation called Save Britain's Heritage.

The aim of the competition was to raise awareness of Britain's crumbling heritage.

The results of the competition, published in the Times, included Barry Town Hall and library in the list of the most neglected historic buildings in Britain.

Recently, we have received information that the first phase of the renovation and redevelopment scheme for the Town Hall site, beginning with necessary repairs to the building, should start in March.

Can we now look forward to the day when we can nominate Barry Town Hall for some prestigious award as a result of sensitive upgrading of a much-loved building, with important links to our historical past?

Dilys Colbourne Secretary BCAG 3 Crossfield Road Barry