Y Ffwrnes

The Y Ffwrnes will be a cultural and creative centre for entertainment, arts, education and employment.  It is due for completion by the end of 2012.  Read more for more information.

The development will comprise of a new purpose built theatre with a flexible space for a wide range of community and professional events and activities including a studio theatre, office space and a social enterprise centre, which will be created in the grade II listed former chapel buildings known as the Zion Chapel and Old Sunday School.

Originally called the Works 2 but now known as  'Y Ffwrnes'. It is being constructed on derelict land next to Zion Chapel. The Grade II listed chapel and neighbouring old school are also being renovated. 

The project will form part of the Eastern Gateway to the town and will play a major role in the regeneration of Llanelli bringing new employment and training opportunities.

It is thought that the development, once completed will attract more than 70,000 visitors as well as playing a major role in community life.

Y Ffwrnes will provide a venue for drama, musical theatre, opera, concerts, dance, cabaret, public meetings and social functions. The new complex replaces the existing entertainment centre and will have a multi-purpose 500+ seat main auditorium, with a stage, orchestra pit and a flexible seating system will be constructed.

This will be the first theatre in Wales to have full accessibility allowing wheelchair access to the fly-tower, allowing disabled people the opportunity to be trained and gain employment as lighting and backstage technicians.

University of Wales: Trinity Saint David will occupy offices on the first floor for a project which will focus on creating opportunities for students. Space will be created for six social enterprise units by the end of December 2013, with the chapel renovated to provide a new place of worship on the ground floor and studio theatre on the upper floor.

Funding has been secured through the Wales European Funding Office via the EU's European Regional Development Fund, Welsh Government via the Targeted Match Fund, Carmarthenshire County Council and Trinity St David's University; with other stakeholder participants including the Zion Chapel, various community groups and social enterprises and users of the facility.

Y Ffwrnes has a target to open in late October 2012.

Funding has come from:

• Europe and Wales: Investing in Your Future – European Regional Development Fund;
• Welsh Government (Planning Policy Wales).
• Carmarthenshire County Council;
• University of Wales – Trinity Saint David;

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