The Vale of Glamorgan Council is still deciding the future of The Kymin in Penarth, years after a leasing U-turn.
In 2020, the Vale of Glamorgan Council wanted to lease it after a funding problem with Penarth Town Council. Later, they changed their mind about leasing it out.
In 2022, they considered running it like Penarth Pier Pavilion, which the council currently manages. The Kymin dates back to the late 1700s or early 1800s. People suggested possible uses for the site, including business meetings and open-air theater. Community fairs, weddings, and food festivals were also suggested.
Lis Burnett leads the Vale of Glamorgan Council. She said The Kymin is a key Penarth landmark, and community groups often use its grounds. The gardens are within the Penarth conservation area.
The council is considering The Kymin’s future carefully and are making a plan for Penarth, with public meetings. The Kymin is a part of this planning, and people should participate in this process. The council wants to shape Penarth for the future.
Penarth Town Council ran The Kymin and some of its grounds from 1982. In March 2020, they gave up the lease, and the county council regained control in April 2020.
The grounds remain open to the public and are maintained by the Vale of Glamorgan Council. When asked about the long decision time, a council spokesperson explained their approach. They want to properly consider public views to ensure the right decision is made.
The Kymin Gardens are a key part of Penarth. The council calls the house itself a “county treasure,” though it is not a listed building.