TODAY (December 19) Urdd Gobaith Cymru welcomes confirmation from the Welsh Government of £2.5 million funding to rebuild the swimming pool at Gwersyll yr Urdd Llangrannog – an investment that will secure the long-term future of one of the Centre’s most popular facilities.
Gwersyll Llangrannog’s first-ever swimming pool opened in the 1970s and has been central to the experience of over a million children and young people over the decades.
The new project will consist of:
- Construction of a new 10m x 20m swimming pool in a purpose‑built facility.
- Creation of modern, fully accessible changing areas for all users, including wheelchair access.
- Installation of state‑of‑the‑art equipment to improve energy efficiency, cut carbon emissions and running costs, and secure long‑term sustainability.
The redevelopment will provide a dependable, year‑round swimming facility open seven days a week for residents, schools, and local community groups, while safeguarding existing jobs and creating two new full‑time roles.
Siân Lewis, Chief Executive of the Urdd, said: “The swimming pool has been an essential part of Gwersyll Llangrannog’s offer since the 1970s.
“This investment will provide a reliable, seven‑day‑a‑week facility that promotes health and well‑being, creates new jobs, and makes the pool fully accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.
“By reducing our carbon footprint, and expanding opportunities for community access, this redevelopment will deliver lasting benefits for both Llangrannog and the wider community.
“On behalf of the Urdd, I would like to thank Welsh Government for supporting our vision and helping us to continue to offer valuable experiences for children and young people across Wales.”
Employing 100 staff, 60% of whom are under 25, Gwersyll Llangrannog is the largest third sector employer in Ceredigion. The next generation of outdoor activity leaders are also supported here through apprenticeship schemes. According to the most recent report on the Urdd’s economic impact, Llangrannog contributes £3.2m to the local economy and £4.5m to Wales annually.
Lowri Jones, Director of Gwersyll Llangrannog, said: “Gwersyll Llangrannog was founded in 1932 as the Urdd’s first permanent residential centre, and nearly two million children and young people have made memories here to date – learning, laughing, and growing through the Welsh language.
“This redevelopment means we can continue that legacy for generations to come. It’s not only about rebuilding a pool; it’s about safeguarding a place that has shaped young lives and communities for nearly a century.”
Minister for Sport, Jack Sargeant, who visited Gwersyll yr Urdd Llangrannog yesterday, said: “The Welsh Government is committed to ensuring sports facilities are accessible, sustainable, and fit for future generations and this money will help secure the future of this really important local facility.
“Sport plays a vital role in delivering our Cymraeg 2050 ambitions. Our investment in the facilities at Llangrannog will strengthen the centre’s ability to offer thousands of young people more informal opportunities to use and develop their Welsh language skills.
“It will also create jobs and provide upskilling opportunities in a region that is essential to the sustainability of the Welsh language.
“The remaining funding will deliver meaningful improvements to facilities nationwide – from grassroots football pitches to elite cycling venues.
“Whether it’s a child learning to swim in Ceredigion, a young footballer training in Newport, or a local tennis club reducing its energy bills, this money will make a real difference to people and sport across the nation.”
