Council forces group to remove sign supporting at-risk heritage site

As Llancaiach Fawr faces potential closure, things have heated-up locally after an arts society was forced to remove a sign pleading the council to keep the 17th century manor open.

At an exhibition on the grounds earlier this week, Bargoed and District Arts Society hung a sign saying ‘save Llancaiach Fawr’ during a public consultation.

The venue, along with Blackwood Miners Institute could be “mothballed” by the council.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer about the incident and ongoing situation with the manor, Plaid Cymru councillor Haydn Pritchard said: “I visit the site regularly and was shocked to hear Tuesday the society had been forced to remove the sign.

“From what I understand they were offered no explanation or justification for its removal. I can’t see the issue myself, why shouldn’t people be made aware of the petition?”

The online petition to keep the manor open is currently at around 5,000 signatures, and Cllr Pritchard, who represents the St Cattwg ward, added he’d also seen paper petitions going around too.

He continued: “Obviously there need to be changes to the way the centre is run, but I’m here often and it’s always chock-a-block.

“To me, it doesn’t make sense to consider options once the centre is closed, but we haven’t seen any evidence that says the council has explored other avenues already.”

The council previously stated it is facing “huge financial challenges over the next few years”, and currently spends £485,000 subsidising the manor in Nelson, which employs 20 members of staff and another 14 ‘casual officers’.

Cllr Pritchard continued: “Any event I’m at I’ll be banging the drum to keep the manor open. I’ve heard nothing negative whatsoever from the people I’ve spoken to, and I hope everyone’s opinions are being taken on board.”

When asked about the sign, a council spokesperson confirmed an “unauthorised sign” had been removed, and encouraged anyone wishing to have their say about the “savings proposals” to use the “appropriate consultation channels.”

The consultation period runs until Tuesday September 10 and can be found online.