The Merrie Friars’ building has been a prominent landmark on the seafront for almost a century. Built in 1920, the building has played host to a dance hall, gym and amusement arcade over the years. It’s also regularly featured in the BBC TV series, Gavin and Stacey and is also expected to play a role in the new Christmas special of the programme, which is due to air on Christmas Day.
The new development, known as Elysium, will see the original art deco façade of the building sensitively restored to its former glory, including reintroducing balconies, while the first and second floors will be reconfigured into six high quality two and three bedroom apartments. The developers behind the scheme are father son duo Nicholas Gannon Tony Gannon who own development company Oakwater. Oakwater see the restoration and redevelopment as an opportunity to support the wider regeneration of the town.
Son Nicholas Gannon said: “I have a close and longstanding connection to the Merrie Friars’ building – having spent time here when it was a nightclub and a gym. Not only is it a special piece of architecture but its location on the prom overlooking the sea is second to none. When the opportunity came up I knew I had to take it.
“The project is personal for me, and I feel a real responsibility to do it justice. I am incredibly proud of the scheme, which I am confident will get the ball rolling for further regeneration of the area. Barry is such a beautiful island and deserves the in.