Column in the Barry & District News by Alun Cairns MP: 

As readers will be aware, I have been determined to support regeneration in Barry over the last decade and I remain keen to play a role in helping local projects that can uplift the area, create jobs and attract visitors. Over the years, this has included investment on Barry Island, the renovation of the Pumphouse and the new Goodsheds development. Naturally, I accept that we also need to drive investment to other parts of the town too.  

Our next stage for Barry’s redevelopment took another major step last week with the announcement that the Lounges will be opening a new restaurant on Barry Island, as part of transforming the old toilet block.  

This is really exciting news, at a time when our local economy needs a boost. The new restaurant will be part of the wider redevelopment of the old toilet block on Nell’s Point and is expected in 2022.

I met with the developer James Morse at the outset. I have known James’ business for decades. He has been responsible for the transformation of Mumbles, outside Swansea. It is fantastic to see this redevelopment project taking shape. This is yet another great investment in Barry which will create more jobs and help to uplift and boost our local area!

As some may recognise, the Lounges currently have over 160 restaurants across the UK and is a popular chain as seen with Ocho Lounge in Penarth and Juno Lounge in Cardiff. This is a successful brand which would be a fantastic addition to our area and add another draw for visitors. 

I look forward to more positive news about this new development over the coming months and to continue to support developers like James Morse, in the same way that Simon Baston showed confidence in the Pumphouse and Goodsheds.