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At their meeting on August 7th, 2024, Cabinet members agreed to formally transfer responsibility for its management from the previous operator to the council’s Head of Property and Regeneration until a decision is made on the future use of the premises.

The centre, at the junction of Herbert Street and High Street, Pontardawe, has been used for many years partly as a community centre and partly as office accommodation for local businesses.

In 2015, as part of nationwide austerity measures, the centre, like many others, was leased out to an independent operator on a full repair and maintenance basis.

However, in 2023 it became clear the operator could no longer continue and the lease was surrendered with council officers working to help the tenants secure alternative suitable accommodation.

That work has now been completed with all tenants having either found alternative accommodation or no longer having need for the space.

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Economic Growth, Cllr Jeremy Hurley, whose portfolio includes asset management, said: “The formal transfer of the centre will now clear the way for discussions on the future of this prominent building.”