Disused Barry Island toilets to be turned into restaurants

Plans to turn a 102-year-old former toilet block at Barry Island into a restaurant complex have taken a step forward.

Developers have said work to secure the Grade II listed building’s structural integrity and preserve its original features is now underway.

The transformation of the toilet block at Nell’s Point was delayed as a result of the Covid pandemic, but the council announced earlier this year that work could begin.

Vale of Glamorgan council leader Lis Burnett said it was “brilliant” to see progress being made at the site in order to “breathe life” into the well-known building.

The toilet block was built in 1923 but has not been used for “a significant number of years”, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A number of businesses have already expressed an interest in opening outlets at the site, which includes a 4,000sq ft (321sq m) restaurant.

James Morse, CEO of redevelopment company Nextcolour, said customers can expect a “spectacular view” at the venue which will be called Nell’s Point.

He said the restaurant had used the “old 1920s terrazzo floor tiles” as they are in a fit state to be repaired.

“We’ve been able to save a lot of the original woodwork internally as well, which is fantastic news,” he added.

Nextcolour is also behind the Oyster Wharf scheme in the Mumbles.

The new venue will be situated next to the Wales Coastal Path.

The Vale of Glamorgan council leader said she had recently visited the site to witness the “incredible progress” being made to restore the old building.

“This project forms a key part of our commitment to enhancing the already fantastic offer at Barry Island for everyone to enjoy,” Burnett added.