A Time and Tide Bell, one of a series of tidal-activated sculptures created by UK artist Marcus Vergette, was unveiled at a community meeting held at Barry Island Community Centre.
The meeting, designed to build local support and raise awareness, attracted more than 70 attendees.
Mike Heffernan, chair of Barry Historical Society and secretary of Barry Island Community Association, welcomed attendees before Brian Mayne of the Time and Tide Bell team delivered a talk on the project’s potential benefits.
Mr Mayne said: “We hope it will offer educational opportunities, engaging schools in beach activities and providing historical and environmental talks for the community and visitors alike.”
The proposed bell would be installed at Friars Point in Whitmore Bay, a site of special scientific interest and the location of a former paddling pool.
The meeting drew a wide range of community representatives, including the Mayor of the Vale of Glamorgan, Councillor Carys Stallard, Deputy Mayor of Barry, Councillor Millie Collins, and Barry Island cllrs Nick and Shirley Hodges, and Steffan William.
The Time and Tide Bell project combines art, environmental awareness, and heritage by using the natural rise and fall of the tide to sound the bell.
Mr Mayne said the project remains in its early stages, with planning permission still required and an estimated £25,000 needed for construction and installation.
Funding is expected to come from a mix of grants and public donations. A standout moment during the evening saw children help unveil the half-bell on display.
Dr Kath Ashill, a Barry-based performance artist and member of the project’s steering group, shared a poem imagining Barry with its own Time and Tide Bell. She concluded the reading by ringing the half-Bell.
After the presentations, attendees were invited to take part in activity stations, including suggesting names for the bell, learning about other bell locations around the UK, and building a model bell from Lego.
The project team includes Barry residents and officers from the Vale of Glamorgan Council, who are providing technical guidance and support.
The bell is intended to connect Barry to a wider national trail while celebrating the town’s unique environment and history. It will also help raise Barry’s profile and attract visitors to the area.
Anyone wishing to follow or support the project can find updates on Facebook and Instagram or email barrytimeandtidebell@gmail.com.
