We were thrilled to be awarded the contract to work on such an amazing landmark of the South Wales coast.

Our works included refurbishment of primary public entrance with new ramps at level changes, new restaurant/kitchen area, public WCs, learning space, shop with independent access, furniture storage and internet workstations, accessible lift, multi-use area, 70 seat cinema and auditorium with kiosk, gallery, function lounge areas, office space and a coast watch observatory located on the top floor of the pavilion, with inspiring views over the Severn Estuary and the Bristol Channel.

We worked in a live environment, so maintaining a great relationship with local businesses and the public was essential.  We wanted the frequent users and the wider public to be fully engaged – so we announced and held three public viewings, allowing laypersons to enter the site safely and view progress and types of work we were engaged in. By organising multiple viewings, interested people were able to view progress first-hand.

We wanted to use the stunning work environment, rich with history and requiring a lot of specialist work, as a training and up-skilling opportunity for local tradespeople. We recruited trainees from Barry and Cardiff Construction colleges for placements in this rare learning opportunity. We also engaged with Vision 21, a Cardiff charity which offers people with a disability the opportunity to take vocational training.

The Penarth Pier Pavilion project received the RICS National Project of the Year Award and the RICS Wales Community Benefit Award. It also won the LABC Wales award and was a MCIOB Gold winner and was named Commercial Project of the Year by the Federation of Master Builders.

The refurbishment of the Pavilion provides commercial benefits through its cafe and cinema, where the open spaces and gallery now formed on the old theatre floor plate are a hub of local Arts and Crafts exhibitions and Community projects. Several charities have formed their base in the new offices – one being particularly prominent as it helps current service men and women recover from PTSD.

The new observatory area that was constructed pays tribute to one of Penarth’s most famous former residents Mr Guy Gibson VC. This former aviator who lived in Penarth during the second world war has this element named in his honour and 6333 Squadron the infamous Dam Busters.