£40,000 roof repairs among concerns over Newtown council buildings

Newtown Town Council faces potentially significant repair costs at its headquarters, while work is progressing on improvements to public toilets and the restoration of historic structures at St Mary's Church.

The condition of several council buildings and assets is highlighted in a half-yearly report going before Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council's Resources Committee.

Among the main concerns is the deteriorating roof at Sarah Brisco House, where crumbling plasterwork, cracks and water damage have been reported.

The council's Operations Manager says the building's roof covering and leadwork will eventually require substantial investment, with the cost of replacing them now estimated at around £40,000.

The report states: "The existing concrete tiles on the roof have become extremely brittle, and several had to be replaced during last year's repairs."

A condition survey carried out in 2016 identified problems with the roof, including weaknesses in the leadwork, the risk of tiles becoming dislodged and poor insulation.

The work was classified as Priority 3, meaning it should have been completed within three to five years.

The original estimate was £20,000, but the latest report suggests this could now be closer to £40,000 because of increases in labour and material costs.

The Operations Manager states: "Given current material and labour costs, this estimate is likely closer to £40,000 if executed today."

The council is currently progressing a wider transformation project for Brisco House, and officers are seeking clarification on whether the roof replacement and associated leadwork will be included.

The building's heating system is another concern.

Two commercial gas boilers were inspected in April 2025 and found to be in poor condition, with a plumber recommending replacement because of their age.

One subsequently developed a fault, requiring a replacement pump, although the system is now operational.

Officers are also checking whether replacement boilers will form part of the wider transformation project.

There has been some progress in tackling water damage at the building.

Problems affecting the first-floor toilet and the landing outside the Town Clerk's office have been resolved after blocked gutters at a neighbouring property were cleared.

Elsewhere, work is now underway on a major refurbishment of the public toilets at Gravel Car Park.

The project will provide modern facilities with improved accessibility, including a dedicated Changing Places toilet for people with additional accessibility needs.

The report states: "The project will deliver improved toilet facilities, including enhanced accessibility features and a dedicated Changing Places provision, helping to ensure that everyone can access safe and convenient amenities in the heart of our town."

The council has secured grant funding covering up to 74.55% of eligible project costs through the Transforming Towns Placemaking Grant, administered by Powys County Council with Welsh Government support.

The refurbishment is expected to be completed by the end of December 2026.

Another significant area of work involves St Mary's Church, where restoration of the Little House is scheduled to begin within the next few weeks.

A specialist stonemason will carry out repairs to the historic structure, including removing graffiti and moss, cleaning the stonework and repairing damaged masonry.

The work will also involve reinstating the existing door with a stronger frame to improve security and help prevent further vandalism.

The report states: "These works will help restore the appearance of the little house while improving its condition, security, and long-term protection."

Additional repairs are planned to sections of the churchyard's stone walls, including replacing missing coping stones and reinstating a heart-shaped gravestone.

A damaged wall alongside stone steps will also be rebuilt, with protective capping installed to prevent water damage.

The council's operations team has already cut back ivy growing on parts of the historic site.

The report also confirms that the council has renewed its lease on the Dolafon Road workshop for another ten years, with a break clause every three years.

Meanwhile, the council has purchased a second-hand diesel van from a local supplier to transport gardening equipment and materials for community events.

One of its two smaller electric vans will be returned to the leasing company in February 2027 and will not be replaced.

At Severn Park Café, replacement glass is being sought for several frosted windowpanes, while the council is also reviewing an administrative issue concerning its trustee status at Treowen Community Hall.

The report covers the council's buildings and vehicle fleet, outlining current maintenance requirements and potential future expenditure.

It states: "The Officers are always keen to seek the opinion of the resources committee as to their aspirations and ambitions for each property, to help guide us as regards budget and potential grant applications."

The report will be considered by the Resources Committee, with any decisions on further work or expenditure still to be made.