History

Building work commenced in 1904 and in May 1906, the doors to Llanhilleth Miners Institute were officially opened to the public by a famous runner, Mr. Tom Arthur, although since the commencement of  restoration work, it has been suggested that Robert Baden-Powell was involved with the original opening. One hundred years on and this landmark building will again serve a central role in the community for a whole new generation of residents not only in the immediate vicinity of the Institute itself but to include the whole of Llanhilleth, Aberbeeg, Brynithel and Swffryd.

The Institute stands prestigiously in the gateway to the Valley as a proud reminder of the innovation, creativity and passion of the people of Blaenau Gwent. The Miners Institute was at the centre of local community life, encouraging cultural events through theatrical and community performances and dances, and education through reading and writing classes. It also had the benefit of the doctor's surgery and library situated within.

Throughout the century, the Institute has played many different roles, from the provision of a Magistrate's court and dentist, to hosting leisure facilities with its swimming pool, poolroom and bar. For many years it served as the home of Llanhilleth Workingmen's Club however over the years, much of the building fell into disrepair; and without drastic action, the building was set to become derelict - like so many other Institutes around South Wales.

A joint initiative by Blaenau Gwent CBC and Communities First has saved the building from extinction and the restoration has been taken forward with the utmost care and sympathy to the original concept of the Miners Institutes by architects Austin-Smith: Lord, engineering work carried out by Capita Simons, White Young Green and Banks Wood in charge of the quantity surveying. The newly refurbished Institute revisits the original aims from 100 years ago.