This Community Asset Transfer has transformed a former residential home for the elderly owned by Gwynedd Council
into a hotel that provides respite holidays for people with learning disabilities, their families and carers.
Background
Gwesty Seren in Llan Ffestiniog is owned and managed by Seren Ffestiniog Cyf, a social enterprise, and is open to all members of the public. It also offers respite adventure holidays for a specific audience.
The Community Asset Transfer was completed in 2011-12 and funded by the Big Lottery Fund, Magnox, Welsh Government (Visit Wales), Snowdonia National Park Authority and Gwynedd Social housing.
It was also funded by Seren Ffestiniog’s investments and borrowings and support from the Big Lottery Fund, which included capital and revenue support.
Business
Gwesty Seren is a not-for-profit project; the hotel includes facilities including a hydrotherapy room and a sensory room, as well as other features which are not commonplace in hotels. It works with a range of local businesses to offer adventure and leisure activities throughout Snowdonia.
The adaptations made to the hotel, to accommodate guests facing a range of mobility and disability related challenges, represents a significant investment from Seren Ffestiniog Cyf to enable them to market their facility with a particular social benefit.
Established in 1996, Seren Ffestiniog Cyf supports and employs people with learning disabilities. With over 60 full time and part-time employees, Seren Ffestiniog Cyf is the second largest employer in Blaenau Ffestiniog. It also owns and operate a number of social enterprises in Gwynedd.
Details
The property was bought from Gwynedd Council at a discount to valuation of the district valuer and specialist valuer and opened in April 2014.
In its first year, the facility generated a small profit and it has also received a capital grant from the Big Lottery Fund and a further revenue grant tapered over a five-year period.
Benefits
It is a unique and innovative project aimed at supporting people with disabilities and challenging circumstances.
The facility has reached a wide audience thanks to the booking.com website and links to a number of tailored holiday companies.
Further information
Anwen Davies
Social Enterprises Liaison Manager
Corporate Support Department
Gwynedd Council
Email: Anwendavies@gwynedd.gov.uk