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PAVILION PROJECT: Architect’s 3D projection of the extended and refurbished FUW pavilion on the Royal Welsh Showground.[/caption]
A major redevelopment of the Farmers' Union of Wales pavilion on the Royal Welsh Showground will be officially opened by Lord Morris of Aberavon, the union's first deputy general secretary and legal adviser, during this year's show at Llanelwedd, Builth Wells.
The 30-year-old pavilion occupies a prime site alongside the main ring but in recent years it was proving to be too small to adequately accommodate the numerous activities and meetings taking place during the annual four-day show.
The redevelopment project includes a new two-storey rear extension which effectively doubles the amount of floor space of the present building.
The opportunity was also taken to provide new county offices for the union's Brecon and Radnor county staff and FUW Insurance area representatives in a modern setting.
The balcony at the front of the building has also been extended and covered to provide a modern look and make full use of the pavilion's prime position overlooking the non-stop main ring action.
The revamp will enable more meetings and activities to take part at the same time than previously and the building's facilities will be available for other organisations to hire during the rest of the year.
"The old pavilion has served us well since 1981 and it was high time for us to upgrade it," said FUW president Emyr Jones.
"The union has come a long way since our first presence at Llanelwedd in a large marquee surrounded by wooden panels.
"This ambitious redevelopment project vividly portrays the successful progress of the union over the past 56 years and its current popularity within Wales."