Blaencaerau School Site
The Noddfa Youth Development Project are working with the Reach team to undertake a feasibility study that will develop options for the usage of the site at Blaencaerau school in Maesteg.
The Noddfa Community Project offers opportunities and services for the community to access provision for children, young people and adults through activities, projects, clubs, workshops, training, informal learning, accredited learning, day and evening activities at the community centre and in the community spaces.
The group applied to the Community Feasibility fund for a feasibility study to assist with their consideration of taking on a community asset transfer (CAT) of the site of the former Blaencaerau Junior School. The school burnt down and the site is currently abandoned. Currently there are few outdoor play and sports facilities in Caerau that are open access and provide the opportunities for children and young people to feel safe, be active, enjoy socialising and have fun together in their community.
The community would like to see the Blaencaerau School site put to good use for the community, with the possibility of a Multi-Use Games Area, an Indoor Sports Barn and outdoor play areas such as table tennis and climbing wall etc.
The Reach team allocated funding to commission a specialist consultant to undertake the feasibility study, which will consult with young people, develop options for the site’s use and development, consider whether the installation of a large shed-type building would be possible, provide costings and information on the potential acquisition of the sire, identify capital funds which may be available to progress to the next phase of the project and present all the information required in a comprehensive report.
Noddfa Youth Development Project
Upcoming Consultation Event December 2024
In December we would like to hear from you!
We’re seeking the community’s input on two exciting initiatives:
- New open access bike pump track and skate park, and upgrading the existing Llynfi BMX Track
- Constructing an all-weather sports facility on the former Blaencaerau School site
These improvements would serve as vital resources for children, young people, and families across Caerau, creating inclusive and active spaces that support year-round recreational opportunities.
All-weather sports facility
An all-weather sports facility on the former Blaencaerau School site would offer a year-round, sheltered space for sports and activities. We envision:
- A sheltered and enclosed sports barn
- Outdoor MUGA (multi use games area)
- Permanent outdoor games (eg. Table tennis tables, basketball hoops, climbing wall etc)
This project aims to address the lack of covered recreational space in Caerau, providing young people with safe, accessible areas for play and physical activity during the colder months.
Why Community Input Matters
Your insights and ideas are crucial to making sure these facilities reflect the needs and aspirations of Caerau’s residents. By getting involved now, you’re helping us shape the future of our community spaces and ensuring we can build a compelling case for funding when it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are these projects needed?
We believe Caerau can benefit from improved recreational facilities that provide safe, accessible spaces for physical activity and social engagement. These projects aim to address identified gaps in community resources and meet growing demand for versatile sports and activity spaces.
Is funding already secured?
While funding has not yet been secured, we’re building a strong case for these projects so we can pursue funding opportunities as they arise.
How can I stay updated on project progress?
We will provide updates on this page, including announcements on project milestones and funding developments.
You can email us at matthew.noddfa@yahoo.com, or use the form https://re-url.uk/W14N to submit your thoughts. The survey is open until 21 December.
The survey has questions on both the School site Sports facilities and on the BMX consultation. More information on the BMX consultation can be found here: https://www.bridgendreach.org.uk/projects/bmx-bike-tracks-park/
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