Wyeside Works - On threshold of an historic transformation

Wyeside Arts Centre, is a beloved cultural hub on the banks of the River Wye, dedicated to providing equitable access to the arts in rural Mid Wales, is on the threshold of an historic transformation.

2027 marks 150 years since this landmark hall and assembly rooms first opened its doors in 1877 for musical performances, dances, meetings and since 1911 as a cinema - making Wyeside one of the oldest cinemas in Wales. That’s not all, 2026 marks 50 years of Wyeside Arts, our registered charity set up to continue presenting great cinema, theatre, music and art to audiences across Mid Wales.

Wyeside has weathered many storms over the years and our survival has been challenging, especially in recent times. Nevertheless, we are still here! To celebrate these important milestones, we’re excited to share our vision for the next chapter in our remarkable story; Wyeside Works.

Thanks to support from the Welsh Government, we can now move ahead from the concept design and feasibility stage to reach RIBA Stage 3 with detailed designs and technical plans that pave the way for planning approval and construction.

Embarking on this ambitious redevelopment project Wyeside Works, will significantly improve our facilities, increase financial resilience and ensure there is a thriving arts centre in Mid Wales for generations to come.

By strengthening Wyeside’s cultural, social and economic assets, this project has the potential to become a flagship destination for Wales, celebrating the Wye Valley’s important cultural, environmental and artistic heritage. The concept designs include a stunning new roof terrace offering breath taking views across the River Wye.

Wyeside Works will:

• Restore and reimagine this historic landmark, a gateway to Builth Wells and Llanelwedd at the heart of the Cambrian Way on Wales's national North-South route

• Create a stunning rooftop vantage point over the River Wye, an inspiring space for performances, events, and community gatherings

• Reopen the street facing arches in line with the original 19th century design

• Provide a three-screen year-round indoor destination venue

• Showcase the very best local artists in a new gallery space

• Improve accessibility and facilities for all our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff

• Fully insulate the venue and reduce environmental impacts

• Celebrate the importance of our agricultural heritage, hosting a regular farmers market and offering local food and drinks in our bars

• Bring new opportunities for cultural engagement, tourism, employment and economic growth in the region

• Renovate the workshop building for arts, business and community use