TWO local organisations are joining forces with the Welsh Georgian Trust to help develop a historic building in Abergavenny.

Abergavenny Civic Society and Abergavenny History Society will be co-hosting a public meeting next Tuesday (March 7) about developing the Gunter Mansion building in Cross Street. 

The Welsh Georgian Trust recently bought the building, after a year of fundraising, with a view to restore the Grade II listed building, making it a focal point for visitors and shoppers in the town.

The Trust, based in Monmouth but with projects all over Wales, wants to establish a local ‘Friends of Gunter’ group to ensure that any developments – including a bid to the Heritage Lottery Enterprise Fund – reflect local needs and knowledge. 

There is also an opportunity to use part of the premises as a ‘pop up’ exhibition space in the next 12- 18 months, while preliminary work is being done.

This would enable local groups and organisations to display material on the history of Abergavenny, as well as the specific story of the Gunter Mansion. 

Andrew Beckett, chair of the Welsh Georgian Trust, is encouraged by the response from local people so far. 

He said: “We want local people to have a chance to shape the future of Gunter Mansion through their knowledge, interest and commitment. Establishing a ‘Friends of Gunter’ organisation seems to us to be the best way to do this.

“We know from our work to date that there is a tremendous amount of local interest in this building and we are looking forward to taking the project forward.”

The history of Gunter Mansion and the Gunter family involves priests, saints, family feuds, Roman roads and confectioners to royalty. 

The public meeting, which will take place at the Angel Hotel, starts at 7pm. Anyone is welcome to attend.