£100,000 more sought to keep Bethlehem Chapel. Newport, in community

Residents of Newport, Pembrokeshire, aim to buy the town’s 19th Century Bethlehem Baptist Chapel with the aim of opening it as a heritage, arts and cultural centre.

But time is running out as the public auction to sell the chapel is this Friday, August 30.

The volunteers co-ordinating the project have been astounded by the support from local and further afield.

Over £50,000 has been raised within a week of the launch of the campaign, with people lending sums  between £3,000 and £20,000.

But the project needs to raise another £100,000 to have a chance of keeping the iconic building for community use.

The chapel, in Upper West Street, Newport,  was built in 1855 by Joshua Morris.

The splendid interior of the chapel. (Image: Planed)

The volunteers are now looking for last-minute supporters to lend bridging funds to ensure the community hold on to the important and much-loved chapel and vestry building.

The local community development charity, Planed, has been supporting the community group in Newport.

The coordinator at Planed, Cris Tomos, said: "There are great examples of community-minded private lenders in Wales and from all over the UK who have ensured important community buildings are kept in the hands of local custodians.

The imposing exterior of Bethlehem Chapel. (Image: Planed)

"The old Police Station and Courthouse in Cardigan town was supported by one family who lent £250,000 to allow the local community cooperative society, 4CG Cymru Ltd, to buy the building for a community project.”

Cris added: "The Newport Bethlehem project has a very short window of opportunity to buy the building,  but if there are individuals or families that would wish to become involved or want to know more, then they should contact the project team." 

With the Newport Bethlehem project, the private community lenders will receive competitive interest on their loans and also larger lenders will have a legal charge on the building.

Another £100,000 needs to be raised by Friday August 30. (Image: Planed)

There is also the option to apply for the EIS Tax Relief scheme from HMRC to allow UK taxpayers to receive 30 per cent tax relief on the amount they lend or invest.

If you could be one of these community lenders or know anyone who could offer the Bethlehem community group a lifeline to retain the building for community use, then email capelbethlehem@gmail.com or phone 07804487642.

People can find out more details by visiting the community website at www.canolfanbethlehem.cymru where there is a video showing local people’s passion for the project.