Major restoration for historic listed building (From South Wales Guardian)

Major restoration for historic listed building

5:00pm Monday 8th October 2012 in Ammanford news

WORK has begun on a major restoration project for the house at the heart of Aberglasney Gardens in Carmarthenshire.

It involves an extensive programme that will see the restoration of the main hall, the reinstating of an elegant staircase, and work on the interior of the east wing of this historic Grade II listed house.

Roger Evans, chief executive of the Aberglasney Restoration Trust, said: “The gardens have come a long way since their derelict state less than 15 years ago.

“The very fact that this work is being carried out is an indication of the desire of our charitable trust to build on the success of the gardens as a centre for excellence in heritage gardening, as well as enhance the aesthetic beauty of the gardens for the enjoyment of our visitors.”

He added, “The works will be a huge boost to Aberglasney and will give us many more options for exhibitions and events throughout the year, also providing us with meeting facilities, as well as adding a great deal to the general visitor experience.”

Looking ahead to what will be an exciting few months at the gardens, Mr Evans said: “We always like to remind ourselves of the following phrase – Aberglasney is changing and growing – a garden lost in time, but nowbelonging to the past, present and future.”

The restoration work at Aberglasney is part of the One Historic Garden Project linking heritage, gardens and opportunities across South Wales.

This project is part-funded by the European Union through Visit Wales and the Welsh Government.

It is hoped that the work will be completed in time for a grand opening around Easter next year.