THE FUTURE of a derelict chapel and hall in Llanidloes, that has been out of use for more than seven years, is set to be discussed at a public consultation event.

Residents of Llanidloes are being invited to have their say on how Bethel Street Chapel and hall, which is on an area of land near the centre of Llanidloes, should be used.

Built in 1872, the former English Presbyterian chapel fell into disrepair after it closed in 2004 along with the former chapel hall which was an ironmonger’s until it closed its doors for the final time more than seven years ago.

Both buildings need renovation and conversion work to prevent further damage.

The buildings are being leased by The Wilderness Trust and in order to save them they have set up a community project.

The Tylwch-based trust wants to consult with as many people as possible to gain any ideas and views for the use of both buildings before they start the project.

Display boards with plans and photos of the buildings’ interior and exterior will be on display at the Minerva Centre, Llanidloes, this Saturday, January 26. There will also be a board for people to share their thoughts and a map of Llanidloes highlighting the services they would like to see more of in the town which the buildings could possibly provide.

It is projected that more than a £1 million will be needed to fix the walls, floors, windows and leaking roof.

“It could do with being saved for future generations but it’s not going to be a cheap thing to do,” says trustee Kevin Blockley.

“When we bought the building two years ago, it was in quite a bad state. So far, the roof has been patched up to prevent further damage in the short term and the buildings are being gradually cleared of all their rubbish.”

He says there is a theatre space with tiered seating under the flooring which is “quite interesting”.

“It would have been demolished and Llanidloes could have lost a part of its history.”

Dr Blockley says the trust has ideas on what the space could become but they are keen to hear the thoughts of residents and people who have been involved with the buildings in the past and know about its 147-year history.