Work to transform an historic Welsh-medium halls of residence is underway after Aberystwyth University appointed its main contractors.

The university appointed construction company Morgan Sindall to refurbish Neuadd Pantycelyn, in an “ambitious project" that “will offer high-quality, contemporary, en-suite accommodation for up to 200 students”.

Work on the project, set to cost £16.5m, began on Monday, 3 June, with the first students due to move into the refurbished building in September 2020, after initial plans to have the building opened by September 2019 were set back through several delays.

Originally opened in 1951, the Grade II listed building will also provide offices for Aberystwyth’s Welsh students’ union UMCA, a refectory and attractive social spaces for use by students, staff and the local community.

Prof Elizabeth Treasure, vice-chancellor at Aberystwyth University, said: “We are delighted to be working with Morgan Sindall on the redevelopment of Pantycelyn, and to bring to life once more a hall that has been the focus for the Welsh culture at Aberystwyth University for almost half a century.

“This project represents an investment in the future of Welsh-speaking students for generations to come and a unique addition to the excellent portfolio of student accommodation we offer here at Aberystwyth.

“We are also grateful to Welsh Government for their support for the project, which will help enhance further the excellent student experience offered by Aberystwyth.”

Rob Williams, Morgan Sindall construction area director, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be working with the university as its construction partner on such a prestigious project.

“Pantycelyn’s significance, both in terms of its history and the role it can play in nurturing future generations of passionate Welsh-speaking students, is not lost on anyone involved in the project."

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