Members help complete refurbishment of Brynamman Cinema
At CCTAL, we’re pleased to announce the completion of a community project that our members, Carmarthenshire County Council and Sustainable Fuel Solutions (SFS) have been working on over recent months.
Brynamman Cinema, one of Wales’ last independent, community-run cinemas, has undergone refurbishment with support from our members. Originally opened in 1926 after being funded by local coal miners, the cinema remains an iconic part of the local community, continuing to host film screenings and live events thanks to its dedicated team of volunteers.
CCTAL members supported the project by donating materials, providing specialist skills and giving apprentices the opportunity to real-life experience, helping ensure this much-loved venue can continue welcoming visitors for many years to come.
Sustainable Fuel Solutions (SFS) generously donated all of the paint used throughout the project, making a significant contribution to the refurbishment. While best known for its heating and building services across South Wales, supporting local communities has always been central to the company’s values.
Carmarthenshire County Council carried out the initial assessment before completing the necessary works. This included painting internal walls and hallways, refreshing the external steps, as well as repairing areas affected by damp that were identified during the assessment. The project was initially organised and planned by Ian Davies and Adrian Brown, who helped coordinate the works from the outset!
The project also provided valuable experience for apprentices. Sianco, a Painting Shared Apprentice placed at Carmarthenshire County Council, worked alongside skilled decorators Grant Davies, Dan Lewis and Gareth Rutter throughout the refurbishment, gaining experience on a live project while contributing to the restoration of a building with nearly 100 years of history.
Phoenix Asbestos Recovery also supported the project by safely removing identified asbestos before the painting and refurbishment works began, helping ensure the building was safe and ready for the next stage of its transformation.
Lynette Anthony, our Training Manager, said:
“At CCTAL, we’re always looking for opportunities to help our members support projects within their local communities. When we heard about the work taking place at Brynamman
Cinema, we put an appeal out to our members to see who could help, and the response was fantastic. It’s been brilliant to see so many businesses give their time, expertise and materials to support such an important local venue, while also creating opportunities for apprentices to get involved.”
Adrian Brown, Responsive Non-Housing Inspector at Carmarthenshire County Council, said:
“It was a privilege to be part of the team that supported this project and carried out painting and decorating works at the iconic Brynamman Cinema during its centenary year. The staff, volunteers, and everyone involved work tirelessly to ensure the cinema continues to thrive and remains open for the people of Carmarthenshire, as well as the many visitors who travel from far and wide to enjoy and support this unique venue.
“Brynamman Cinema is a treasured community asset with a rich history, and it has been an honour to play a small part in helping preserve and enhance this local gem for future generations. It is a project that truly deserves to be celebrated. “
John Garland, Director at Sustainable Fuel Solutions said:
“People have always been at the centre of our business, so when we were asked if we could support the refurbishment, we were pleased to help. Donating the paint was a simple way for us to contribute to a project that means so much to the local community, and we’re proud to have played a small part in helping preserve Brynamman Cinema.”
Brynamman Cinema has been welcoming audiences since 1926 and remains a unique part of Wales’ cultural heritage. CCTAL is proud that our members have been able to support the refurbishment, helping ensure the cinema continues to serve the local community for many years to come.
