Renovation of Maesteg Town Hall celebrated with prestigious RICS Wales Award shortlisting
Thursday 23 July 2026
The remarkable transformation of Maesteg Town Hall has been recognised on the national stage after being shortlisted in the Community Category at the RICS UK Awards Wales Region 2026.
The landmark redevelopment, led by Bridgend County Borough Council in collaboration with Awen Cultural Trust, Knox and Wells Ltd, Purcell architects and Mace Ltd, was selected as one of just four finalists in its category from hundreds of entries received across the awards.
The RICS UK Awards celebrate outstanding people, projects and organisations that are raising standards across the built and natural environment. The ‘Community Category’ recognises projects that deliver lasting social value and make a significant contribution to the communities they serve.
The shortlisted projects were celebrated at the RICS Wales Regional Awards Ceremony, held in Cardiff on 8 July 2026.
The recognition follows the successful restoration and redevelopment of the iconic Grade II listed building, which has carefully preserved its historic character while creating a vibrant, modern community and cultural destination at the heart of the Llynfi Valley.
The ambitious project has restored Maesteg Town Hall to its former glory while introducing high-quality new facilities, including a striking glass atrium, a studio theatre and cinema space, a modern library, a local history and heritage centre, and a café. Today, the building hosts a diverse programme of arts, cultural and community events for people of all ages, ensuring it continues to play a central role in the life of the town.
Although the project did not take home the regional title, being named among the top four community projects in Wales is a significant achievement and reflects the quality, ambition and lasting impact of the redevelopment.
"To be recognised by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors as one of the four outstanding community projects in Wales is a tremendous honour and a fitting tribute to everyone who helped bring this landmark project to life. The restoration of Maesteg Town Hall has been undertaken with great care and respect for the building's rich history and architectural heritage. As one of the town's most treasured landmarks, it was vital that its historic character was preserved while creating a welcoming, accessible space that meets the needs of modern communities. Today, the town hall is once again at the heart of Maesteg, providing first-class facilities and a vibrant programme of arts, culture, learning and community activities. It is a wonderful example of how heritage-led regeneration can breathe new life into an historic building, creating opportunities for residents, attracting visitors and supporting the ongoing regeneration of the town. This shortlisting reflects the vision, dedication and expertise of everyone involved in the project, and we are extremely proud that Maesteg Town Hall has received this well-deserved recognition on the national stage."
"It is a privilege for Awen to have played a part in the redevelopment of Maesteg Town Hall and an even greater privilege to operate it day-to-day with, and for the benefit of the Llynfi Valley community. The RICS nomination was just reward for all those who played their part over many years to realise this incredible project. It just goes to show how investment in culture can be a real catalyst for regeneration and boosting local economies.”
The redevelopment of Maesteg Town Hall represents one of the largest investments in the town for decades and demonstrates how historic buildings can be sensitively restored to preserve their heritage while delivering lasting benefits for future generations.
