**Neglected Penarth Mansion Set for Major Transformation as New Homes Get Green Light**
A long-neglected mansion in the Welsh seaside town of Penarth is on the cusp of a remarkable transformation after years of vacant decline. The imposing Gardenhurst house, a Victorian-era building that once served as a day care centre, is set to be converted into modern apartments as part of an ambitious redevelopment project approved by the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s planning committee.
After lying untouched since 2014, Gardenhurst will be reimagined as six stylish flats, with permission also granted for the construction of three brand new homes within the property’s grounds. Local representatives have hailed the plan as a much-needed revival for the prominent, yet sullied, structure that forms part of the Penarth Conservation Area.
Councillor Ian Johnson, who sits on the planning committee, voiced his optimism about the site’s future. “After a decade of being in disuse, I believe that we should look forward to this site being regenerated,” he remarked, reflecting a widely held sentiment that the building has long stood as a symbol of missed opportunity.
Despite the general welcome for the project, there have been some reservations raised regarding the issue of affordable housing. Initially, the council sought a financial contribution of over £264,000 from the developers to support local affordable housing provision. However, an independent viability study concluded that such a contribution was not financially achievable, given current construction costs.
Councillor Mark Wilson, representing the Stanwell ward and also a member of the planning body, acknowledged the disappointment over the lack of so-called ‘Section 106’ funding but conceded the economic realities. “I am a bit disappointed about the lack of 106 funding for affordable housing, but we all know that cost of materials now is very expensive and these projects have got to financially stand up, and I understand that,” he explained, pointing to the wider challenges facing developers and local authorities alike.
Debate also surrounded the proposal to build three additional homes on the current car park at Gardenhurst. Councillor Anthony Ernest, who also represents the local ward, expressed concern about increased congestion along Marine Parade and Park Grove—roads already experiencing significant pressure. However, he ultimately lent his support to the overall redevelopment, describing the preservation and reuse of the property as vital for maintaining the area’s architectural heritage.
Council planners suggested that decreased parking on the site could be mitigated by Gardenhurst’s close proximity to public transport links and Penarth’s town centre. They also cited a dedicated parking survey that indicated sufficient on-street parking capacity to absorb any extra demand the development may create.
According to the vision presented by the developers, the rejuvenated Gardenhurst will offer contemporary residential accommodation while respecting the character and history of the original Victorian manor. Artist renderings hint at a sympathetic restoration, blending modern design with period details, as new life is breathed into a site many thought was destined for demolition or dereliction.
The journey to reach this point has not been swift. An initial application to repurpose the building into flats was submitted as far back as 2015, only to be withdrawn following subsequent changes in scope and design. The latest plans, proposed in 2016, have been the subject of considerable revision and scrutiny over the ensuing years.
The planned redevelopment signals a significant step forward in tackling the town’s vacant and underused buildings, as councils across Wales find themselves under increasing pressure to balance housing needs, sustainability, and historical preservation. While affordable housing campaigners may remain disappointed, local leaders hope that the project will spark wider regeneration and reinvigorate a once-proud local landmark.