A FORMER Welsh chapel in Borth is being transformed into a boutique cinema and theatre in readiness for the building’s 140th anniversary.

Libanus 1877 will be the first cinema of its kind to open in Wales for many years.

Owners Peter Fleming and partner Grug Morris want it to form part of a revival of Borth, creating jobs and boosting visitor numbers.

The transformation of the building has been undertaken by mid Wales building designers and planning consultants Hughes Architects, with building and refurbishment work being undertaken by Mr Fleming and sub-contractors.

“We’re well on the way to completing the conversion and opening Libanus 1877 by spring 2017, just in time for the 140th anniversary of the building of the chapel,” said Mr Fleming.

“We’re ensuring attention to detail throughout and, once completed, we believe it will be a significant destination for visitors and local people to Borth from a wide area.”

Mr Fleming believes the mix of cinema, theatre and restaurant will attract people from the West Midlands and beyond to stay in the area.

The couple plan to open in the cinema in February with an official launch in March.

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