Welshpool Y Lanfa Museum closes after building leak

Y Lanfa Museum and Welshpool Library, pictured on the Montgomery Canal. The museum has temporarily closed following a building leak, while the library is operating a limited service. <i>(Image: Anwen Parry)</i>
Y Lanfa Museum and Welshpool Library, pictured on the Montgomery Canal. The museum has temporarily closed following a building leak, while the library is operating a limited service. (Image: Anwen Parry)
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A museum in the heart of Welshpool has been forced to close temporarily after a building leak, while library services continue on a limited basis.

Stori Powys, the official social media page for Powys County Council's libraries, museums, and archives service, announced the closure of Y Lanfa Museum on Wednesday, August 12.

In a notice to customers, the service said investigations and repair work are now underway.

Museum closes while repairs are carried out

The statement said: "Due to a building leak, Y Lanfa Museum is temporarily closed, and the library is operating a limited service while investigations and repairs are undertaken.

"We are working to restore full access as quickly as possible and apologise for any inconvenience caused.

"Thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued support during this time.

"We look forward to welcoming you back to our full service very soon."

No details have yet been released about the cause or extent of the leak.

Setback after major refurbishment project

The closure comes after significant investment in the landmark canalside building as part of a wider project linked to the restoration of the Montgomery Canal.

Welshpool Library returned to Y Lanfa following an extensive extension and refurbishment programme that transformed the building and surrounding area.

The work, carried out by Welshpool-based SWG Construction, included the creation of a new entrance foyer beneath the existing canopy, a flexible community and exhibition space, a new public toilet, lift access, solar panels, and modern air-handling systems.

The improvements were designed to boost accessibility, sustainability, and visitor experience.

Major improvements to surrounding area

Alongside the work inside the building, improvements were also made to the wharf area outside Y Lanfa.

The area was resurfaced to improve accessibility and help reduce the risk of flooding, while a new landscaped public space was created.

The Grade II-listed canalside cottages adjacent to the building were also refurbished and brought back into commercial use.

No reopening date confirmed

It is not yet known how long the museum will remain closed.

While Y Lanfa Museum is shut, Welshpool Library remains open but is operating a limited service until investigations and repairs are completed.

Visitors are being advised to check for updates before travelling as work continues to restore normal access to the site.

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