Llanelli could have a new town centre museum and Creative Quarter in an exciting vision drawn up by local artists and volunteers.
The group behind the plan, the John Street Project, aim to transform and beautify the street and buy the old, empty Post Office for a Museum, as well as promoting the area’s artists.
The proposal comes following public criticism from locals that the town centre is ‘unattractive’ and ‘unloved’.
A National Heritage Lottery grant of £150,000 is being sought to turn the proposed transformation dream into reality, said Project Secretary Tara Fisher.
The money would pay for the acquisition and conversion of the former Post Office, attached to the older former Post Office, which is a Grade 11 Listed Building.
Tara said:
“We want artists to know that the museum will be a home for local people of talent. We cannot stress this enough. This is vital. And if everything goes smoothly, and we get extra funding, we would like to run the museum ourselves.”
Visitors to John Street could be greeted by a decorative archway that would show where all the other artists are in the area.
The plans include a multi-functional space, with walls on wheels, enabling a large room for courses and events.
A small artist studio would also be created ‘for artists all over the constituency’ to book and work on their art.
Tara said that at a future point there may be scope for an artist’s shop, a small gift shop and a tourist office.
The artists and volunteers also hope to open a small cafe in the former post office.
Tara added:
“We want to be environmentally-friendly, so there will be planters in the area in front of the buildings. We are appealing for people to donate special flowers that attract bees and butterflies which would create a bit of an environmental garden in the centre of town. People could be responsible for their own planters, with their names on in recognition of their support in doing something positive for the town.”
Another feature proposed is a £25,000 French wind turbine tree.
Tara said:
“What an exciting prospect to have these trees, one on the Place de la Concorde in Paris and one in John Street, Llanelli.”
The Project is seeking donations via Crowdfunding, and to employ a full-time Supervisor and two part-timers to run the museum.
Linked to the project is an aspiration to have a drop off and on bus service dedicated to Llanelli town centre and the surrounding area, at a bargain price of £1 per person for a day ticket.
The group’s Facebook page is called John Street Project.
Great thing to do. The more positive things the better .