Elmrise Park was first conceived by Major John Buckley from the Welsh Equitation Centre when provisional planning permission was granted to "Erect 100 holiday chalets in conjunction with the Equitation Centre" on August 12 1969. This was formally granted on December 12 1972 to the newly formed "Elmrise Properties Limited" of 55 Mansel Street Swansea. Pant-Yr-Athro Park Management Limited was subsequently registered to administer the running of site on the 15th May 1973.
On the 16 June 1978 Pant-Yr-Athro Park Management Limited applied for planning permission to construct 37 further chalets in the field opposite. This was originally outlined in the 1969 proposal but has yet to be taken up.
The Gallery was purchased as a Members Club on the 6th August 1996 with each chalet owner contributing £260 to the purchase.
2005
Swimming pool
The success of the redeveloped swimming pool has been remarked upon by a large number of shareholders. Despite our efforts to explain what it would ultimately be like, many people have commented that it exceed their expectations. Beyond the work that was anticipated, extensive drainage had to be laid, since upon investigation the existing land drain led straight into the soil, with no soak away or surface water arrangements being in place. Whilst this work was being carried-out it was decided that toilet connections would also be made, earlier than planned. So far a hire toilet has been utilised, but it is likely that a permanent structure will be erected in due course. Finding the absence of drainage after 30 years of the pools existence was an expensive and unwelcome surprise.
Pavilion and Launderette
The Pavilion and Launderette are due to be started in Autumn 2006. Following extensive deliberations with the electricity supplier a new three-phase supply is to be laid from the "6 acre field" to support the new development This will be routed underground and both fresh water and well water (to satisfy non-kitchen use) will use the same trench to enter the site.
2006
Swimming pool
Following the redevelopment of the open air pool into a covered, solar heated pool it became apparent in late 2006 that the pool heaters and filtration system was in terminal decline. Two gas boilers are used to supplement and provide heat when solar collection is poor. Those fitted were found to be corroding badly with spare parts availability declining fast due to their age and poor economy, which has led to them being replaced generally. The single pool filter (the original) has been repaired continually over the years and failed with regularity each season. The decision was made to replace both boilers with modern condensing boilers which were 97% efficient and the old single filter with twin sphere filters. To accommodate the above, the boiler house was gutted, a new floor laid and a complete new roof constructed (the old roof was in poor repair). In addition a separate filter house was constructed to meet the additional space requirements required. Whilst the above was being carried-out, foundations were laid for the new toilet which will be able to accommodate disabled persons. Demolition and construction work was carried-out by using our own resources with the pool and gas contractors installing the equipment. The cost of the work was in the region of £10,500 and was financed by a bank overdraft.
It became clear that a leak had developed in the pool a short while after opening. Throughout the summer, the pool was regularly topped-up with water and chemicals added to operating standards. After closure the cause of the leak was investigated and found to be in a "skimmer" (the side vents which take water away for filtering). It is hoped that a repair will be possible within our own resources. Prior to opening in 2007, a defect in the pool floor was found which called for immediate attention. This was after the pool had been subject to the normal round of repairs carried-out annually.
A means of resolving the age-related pool defects are being considered. The cost will be high and will not be able to be pursued until outstanding debts are cleared to the company.
Pavilion and Launderette
The project commenced in the first quarter of 2007 and was completed in the third quarter of 2007. To provide maximum space to the front of the building and to line-up squarely with an existing building the left-hand side was set back further than originally envisaged. The centre is fire-rated to accommodate 220 persons and comprises a main hall, kitchen, toilet and cloakroom facilities. Each cubicle is complete with a wc, hand basin and electric hand-drier. There are 5 cubicles including a disabled cubicle.
The launderette comprises two washing machines, two driers and washing sinks. The machines are coin-operated. The machines are capable of taking large loads including duvets.
The building is highly insulated and is heated by electric storage convector heaters. The services of a heating consultant were funded by the Carbon Trust. The hot water system is instantaneous (making use of our new three-phase power supply) which eliminated the need for hot water storage. Work has been carried-out in 2007 to our well to enable free-of-charge water to be used for non-potable purposes.