The site in Thompson Street, Barry, will now house Sully Day Opportunities, offering various services to people with disabilities.
The centre is relocating from its current spot in Hayes Road, Sully, aiming to be closer to shops, cafés, and better transport connections.
The facility, previously a retail unit under Use Class A1, will now serve adults with learning disabilities and additional needs under Use Class D1 – non-residential institutions.
Salutem LD Bidco IV Limited, trading as Ambito Care and Support and Ambito Education, submitted the application.
Its spokesperson explained that moving to a more central location will provide “educational/recreational activities” in both the service and the community, particularly benefitting adults with disabilities.
The new centre aims to promote inclusion and independent living skills, aligning its goals with the community benefit aims of the Local Development Plan.
The facility, approximately 625m² in size, will open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm for staff and 9am to 3pm for attendees.
Will also be open from 10am to 12pm on every second Saturday of the month for a social group.
Internally, the ground floor unit will feature flexible activity spaces, a small kitchen, accessible WC facilities, quiet rooms, office space for staff, and storage.
With minimal changes to the outer shell of the building, a ventilation system on the rear will be the only external modification beyond new signage.
On any given day, the scheme can accommodate 16 users with the support of six staff members.
Activities at the new facility will range from art and reading groups to cookery and photography/media.
Community-based activities, like community gardening and exploring volunteering and employment opportunities, are also being planned.
Care has been taken to ensure the building supports individuals with mobility impairments, aligning with accessibility standards.
Features include accessible toilets, wide internal corridors, and fire alarm systems with visual and audible alerts.
Despite a single objection citing concerns about noise, parking, and child safety, the local council has deemed the proposal compliant with the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 requirements.
A spokesperson for the centre said that they “encourage individuals to flourish and be independent using a person-centred approach.”
With modern, spacious activity rooms and an onsite community Health Support Team, the centre provides meaningful activities, empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
