Bedwellty House is an early 19th century Grade II listed building in a historic park and conservation area. As part of an extensive restoration, Barker Langham delivered the business, interpretation, volunteering and audience development strategies for the House and Park.
We influenced the Heritage Lottery Fund’s decision to accept a larger application than the £1 million initially suggested, the project receiving £3.6 million following our input. We recommended the construction of a new building to create an exhibition space for the town, and developed a new brand identity to be used across the site and on Bedwellty products.
Working as part of the Council’s team meant that we gained an intimate knowledge of local needs, and the creation of a ‘Bedwellty Board’ governance structure enabled local people to be an integral part of decision making. Using film and multi-layered interpretation techniques, Barker Langham has ensured that a visit to Bedwellty is not only a gateway to the heritage of the house and park, but also to the local area and the rest of South Wales.
“Barker Langham’s advice was pivotal to the success of the project,” says David Watkins, from Blaenau Gwent Council, “as was their engagement with the local community which has been exemplary.”
