A major update has been agreed in council plans for the redevelopment of a former Wilko shop in Wales’ largest town. The store in Holton Road, Barry, closed in 2023, and despite marketing since early 2024, no buyers were willing to take on the location.
A report presented to Vale of Glamorgan Council states: “The site occupies a key location and is well suited to uses that drive footfall, increase dwell time, and diversify the high street offer.”
In July 2025, the council’s cabinet approved the use of a £1m Welsh Government loan to acquire the building, with the acquisition completed in January 2026. During a cabinet meeting on June 11, the council agreed a series of bureaucratic measures to begin bringing the unit back into active use, aiming to “support the regeneration of and long-term viability of the town centre”.
Council leader Lis Burnett said: “Everyone is really really keen to get this going as fast as possible but we are dealing with public money… [we] have to make sure everything is completely accountable.”
A range of uses for the vacant unit were suggested, including pop-up events, workshops, engagement activities, and evening events. Special attention was given to the possibility of using the space as an indoor market, though this has not been confirmed.
Cllr Burnett made it explicitly clear what the building would not be: “It will not be converted into housing.”
The report lists initial project goals: revitalising the town centre, stimulating economic growth, enhancing community value, demonstrating public sector leadership, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
Deputy leader Cllr Bronwen Brooks called this a “fantastic opportunity” and a “once in a lifetime opportunity for us”, adding: “This will be for the people of the Vale.”
