CONSTRUCTION of a new community building has begun in the latest stage of redevelopment work at Cemetery Approach in Barry.

The scheme is jointly funded by the Vale of Glamorgan Council and Barry Town Council.

The two councils have been working in partnership to improve the previously derelict site, in Since 2015.

Cemetery Approach Gardens were opened in 2017 following work to transform the area into an accessible open space for the community to enjoy by introducing new landscaping, fencing, seating, planting and paving.

The most recent work will create a building for the local community that includes a multipurpose space, kitchen area, toilets and room for storage.

Contractors Willis Construction Limited have arrived on site to start laying foundations for the structure, which will be managed by Barry Town Council once completed.

Vale council leader, Cllr Neil Moore said: We have worked in partnership with Barry Town Council over a number of years to transform what was a dilapidated, rundown area into something the local community could enjoy and be proud of.

“The latest stage of that plan involves building a facility containing amenities and storage space, which we hope will be of further benefit to those that use the area.”

Barry Town mayor, Cllr Margaret Wilkinson said: “This community building will contribute to the Town council’s initiatives for community development in the area and will be the ‘icing on the cake’ sitting adjacent to the beautiful park already in place.”

The gardens were officially opened in June 2017

The area was fenced off and unused prior to 2008 - the year when residents fought a successful campaign to save it from a housing association’s plans for a residential development.

More than 12,000 people signed a petition and wrote letters objecting to the Newydd housing scheme which was ultimately rejected by the Vale council’s planning committee.