PLANS to convert a property in Brynmawr to become the home of an award-winning organisation that helps combat loneliness and wellbeing issues have been approved by Blaenau Gwent councillors.
At a meeting of Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council’s Planning Committee on Wednesday, September 9, councillors received a report on the application by Tai Calon Community Housing.
Tai Calon wants to change the ground floor use of 16 Beaufort Street, Brynmawr, from A1 retail class of use to a community meeting place under D1 class of uses, which covers non-residential institutions.
The housing association had lodged the application with the council and was working in association with Men’s Den Blaenau Gwent.
Development team manager Helen Hinton said: “The facility would provide a meeting space for Men’s Den, Ladies Lounge and other organisations delivering information and support sessions.
“The premises would also be available for wider community use, with a small area dedicated to the sale of items produced by the Men’s Den participants.”
The property has three storeys, and the ground floor is vacant while the first and second floors are in residential use.
Ms Hinton continued: “The applicant has confirmed there are no changes to the shop front as part of this proposal and any future alteration or advertisement would be the subject of separate applications.”
She explained that the reason why the plans were in front of the committee was because it is a “departure” from the LDP (Local Development Plan), as it would mean the loss of a shop use in a “primary retail area”.
Ms Hinton added that there had been no marketing evidence submitted by the applicants to show the lack of demand for retail use at this property, which led the planning policy team to object to the proposal.
Ms Hinton said: “However, they do acknowledge that the unit has been vacant for a prolonged period of time and the town centre monitoring report identifies a declining A1 occupancy and increasing vacancy rates in the Brynmawr primary retail area.
“Members are asked to consider whether bringing a long-term vacant unit back into active use is more beneficial than retaining the unit in the hope of finding a future retail occupier.”
She said that the proposal would provide a valuable local service and increase footfall to the town centre area.
Due to this, Ms Hinton recommended that councillors approve the scheme as the: “benefit proposed would justify the departure in this instance.”
Cllr Helen Cunningham (non-aligned – Llanhilleth) said: “It’s incredible what Men’s Den do, especially considering it aligns with our Marmot principles and helping the community. It’s important to recognise Tai Calon’s role in this and how supportive they have been.”
Cllr Jonathan Millard (Reform UK – Ebbw Vale South) asked what the “rationale” was for Sunday opening at the building being curtailed to 4pm.
Ms Hinton replied: “We felt the Sunday hours reflect what many shops in the high street would be open for. After 4pm, residents can expect a quieter period of time.
“It’s to ensure the use remains compliant.”
Cllr George Humphreys (non-aligned – Cwm) said: “It’s something completely different and lovely to see.
“It’s really good.”
The committee then moved to a vote and councillors unanimously supported the proposal.
Now known as “The Shed”, the organisation has “evolved to meet the growing needs of our area.
“While our roots are in the ‘Men’s Shed’ movement, our transition to The Shed BG reflects our commitment to inclusivity, providing support for people of all ages (over 18), genders and abilities.”
The prestigious title of UK Shed of the Year 2025 was awarded to Men’s Den Blaenau Gwent, and they were commended for strengthening community ties by embracing diverse projects and member needs, including podcasting and growing the ladies group for craft and emotional support.
