A MULTI-MILLION-POUND refurbishment of a historic Aberystwyth University hall of residence has been delayed by a year due to the “challenges of redeveloping” the building.

The opening date of Pantycelyn, which is being renovated at a cost of £12m, has now been pushed back from September next year to September 2020.

The plan was developed in the wake of large-scale protests over university plans to close the hall on Penglais Hill.

Aberystwyth University’s Welsh Students’ Union, UMCA, said the news was a “big disappointment”, while the university reiterated the scheme remains a “priority capital project” despite the announced delay and financial constraints elsewhere at the institution.

Plans will see the halls, which were home to Prince Charles during his time at the university, transformed with 200 en-suite bedrooms, full catering provision and social spaces.

The university said it has “been working hard to deliver refurbishment of Pantycelyn within the intended timetable”, but that “it has become clear that the challenges of redeveloping this Grade II listed building mean the original aim of reopening the building in September 2019 is not achievable.”

“To allow the work to be carried out sympathetically, to a high standard and on budget, the first students will now move into their rooms in September 2020,” the university said.

“The university realises this news will be disappointing to those who want to experience life in Pantycelyn at the earliest opportunity and apologises for the delay.

“There have been unforeseen pressures on the timetable, including the need to include a comprehensive sprinkler system in the plans.”

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