Penarth pier pavilion will only open from Thursday to Sunday from the 6th of March onward, with the cinema to close until the end of summer.
Aled Thomas is a Plaid Cymru candidate for Penarth, he says “I think that this is very disappointing news as I am very fond of visiting the pier myself. It seems to be a popular attraction especially in the summer season.” However, he went on to say maybe that maybe this will encourage people to visit the Pavilion, as “people are more likely to try and make the most of the time it is open.”
Mr Thomas also says “It is a shame that they are cutting down on the days that they are open because this is a popular place for people to go for a coffee in the area.”
The pavilion building is owned by the Vale of Glamorgan Council, just like the pier. However, unlike the pier, the Pavilion is on lease to a not-for-profit company- Penarth Arts and Crafts Ltd (PACL).
The Pavilion has a cinema, cafe and art gallery space. PACL says the cinema is closing because of low audience numbers during the summer months.
PACL released a statement which says; “We are most grateful for the support that we have received from the general public since the restored Pavilion opened in December 2013 and believe that these changes will help to ensure the long-term future of the Pavilion.”
When asked one Penarth Town Councillor, Anthony Ernest, Conservative for Plymouth Ward says it’s “obviously it’s a great shame” about the reduced hours, but defended the shorter opening hours. He says “We have to be grateful that they are able to keep the building open”.
