'A classical chapel of more than usual sophistication, built in 1867 to the design of Evan Griffiths, remodelled in 1894, with a hall at the west endadded in 1908-9 by J. LLewellyn Smith...... The entrance front...is crowned by an open pediment into which a bold semi circular recess is inserted. This is supported by pairs of Corinthian pilasters flanking the central Ionic arcaded windows.' (p135)
This building was not only a place of worship but a centre of social and cultural life
'Now, when the physical evidence of Victorian industry has almost disappeared, many of the chapels remain, eloquent evidence of aspirations that reached beyond everyday life.' (p81)
However as the congregations shrink and the chapels are gradually sold what will replace them? Aspirations have changed but the buildings remain, and often as in this case they can dominate the high street of the town they are on. Old structures like this are expensive to maintain and heat and often fail to meet current building regulations. Many have listed status which creates even more hurdles for the would be developer.
Potentially a large building like this right in the middle of Aberdare's commercial district could blight the town centre for years. Already it has a couple of buddleia plants growing out of its facade and once the heating goes off then the chances of dry rot taking hold increase. At a time when the high street is at risk from out of town and internet shopping (highlighted in the recent report by Mary Portas http://www.maryportas.com/news/2011/12/12/my-28-recommendations/ ) then empty buildings like this amplify the problem. Other large buildings that are currently empty in Aberdare include the Council offices on High Street, Black Lion in Victoria Square and the Boot Hotel.
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