Academy News October 2011

Pwllheli Centre sets sail for success

The National Sailing Academy and Events Centre project in Pwllheli has taken another significant step forward with the appointment of architects for the exciting scheme.

Ellis-Williams Architects have been selected to design the iconic centre and local architects Dobson:Owen will play a pivotal role in the project by consulting and coordinating the process with both Gwynedd Council and the local community.

The flagship project has secured around £4 million of funding from both the European Union’s Convergence programme and the Welsh Government’s Targeted Match Funding.

When it opens in 2013, the Sailing Academy promises to attract thousands of extra visitors to the area every year, to offer first class sailing opportunities and training for local people and a much needed new community facility for the town.

Councillor Dyfed Edwards, Leader of Gwynedd Council, said: “Gwynedd Council’s Economy and Community Department has been working on this ambitious project for five years. We are delighted that it has passed another milestone with the appointment of Ellis-Williams Architects and Pwllheli-based Dobson:Owen Architects.

“Local people can look forward to seeing tangible progress in the very near future with building work expected to start next summer and the project due to be completed by autumn 2013.

“Pwllheli already has an outstanding reputation as one of the best sailing venues in the British Isles and for attracting national and international sailing events and regattas.

“By working with our partners to invest in the infrastructure we are confident that we can attract bigger and more frequent races and competitions to the area. Our research shows that this new development will attract an extra 12,000 visitors all of whom will need accommodation and food plus services provided by local marine traders.

“As well as the obvious economic boost, the sailing academy will also provide local people, and children especially, the opportunity to take part in water sports. This in turn will lead to more of our young people developing careers in the local outdoor activities sector.”

PHOTOS:

1 – (left to right) Gareth Wright a Huw Williams o from Gwynedd Consultancy Service; Llyr Jones of the Council’s Economy and Community Department; Stephen Tudor of Pwllheli Sailing Club; y Councillor Dyfed Edwards, Leader of Gwynedd Council; Huw Owen of Dobson:Owen architects and Dominic Williams of Ellis-Williams Architects.

2 - (left to right) Stephen Tudor of Pwllheli Sailing Club; y Councillor Dyfed Edwards, Leader of Gwynedd Council; Huw Owen of Dobson:Owen Architects and Dominic Williams of Ellis-Williams Architects.

NOTES:

For more information about this project, visit the website
www.gwynedd.gov.uk/SailingAcademy

The £8.3 million National Sailing Academy and Events Centre at Pwllheli is a prime example of how European funding can bring opportunity and prosperity to Gwynedd. For more information about the different support available and how to apply for funding, or for details about the projects visit www.gwynedd.gov.uk/europe or contact the Council’s Specialist European Team on 01286 679 343 or email SpecialistEuropeanTeam