Brithdir Workmen's Institute, a historic building in Caerphilly county, is set to go to online auction with a guide price of £195,000 on July 7. The building, constructed in 1926 as a social club and library, has been granted planning permission for conversion into a five-bedroom dwelling, with most first-fix renovations already completed.
Historic Background
Workmen's institutes were educational and recreational centres built for the working class, primarily miners in south Wales and industrial workers in the Midlands, emerging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were financed by weekly wage deductions to provide libraries, cinemas, and union spaces, according to Museum Wales. Brithdir's institute was built with backing from the Miners' Welfare Fund, costing an estimated £4,500, including a £2,500 grant for a concert room.
Conversion and Renovation Status
Caerphilly County Council approved the change of use to a dwelling in 2019 (reference 18/0691/COU). The building, which had been left in disrepair and vandalised, has been made secure. The auction house, Seel & Co, states that much of the construction and partition work is done, though some rooms remain at the 'back to brick stage'. The property also offers a three-phase electrical supply, though not tested.
The building spans three storeys with 10 rooms of various sizes. The planned layout includes three large reception rooms, a shower room, and boiler room on the ground floor; a kitchen lounge diner, separate lounge diner, and bathroom on the first floor; and five bedrooms (two with en-suite) plus a family bathroom on the top floor. The front arched windows remain a distinctive feature.
Location and Auction Details
Brithdir village occupies a convenient valley location with excellent transport connections and easy access to south Wales countryside. The building is close to local amenities, rail links, and the broader facilities of New Tredegar and Bargoed. The auction will be held online on Tuesday, July 7 from 5.12pm via Seel & Co. For more information, call 029 2037 0100.
