Residents in the Welsh village of Garnant, Carmarthenshire, have expressed concern following a recent arson incident at a derelict workmen’s hall. Firefighters from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service were dispatched to tackle the fire on Monday night. The fire, believed to have been started deliberately, raised alarm due to the hazardous state of the old building.
The privately owned property, which has been abandoned and left to deteriorate for approximately 15 years, has long been a safety concern. Garnant councillor Kevin Madge has been advocating for the council to take ownership of the building and have it demolished. This latest fire has renewed calls for action, as Cllr Madge highlighted previous incidents involving children setting fires inside the building.
Aside from the fire risk, Cllr Madge also expressed worries about the safety of the children who may be accessing the dangerous structure. With parts of the roof blown off in storms and ongoing concerns about the building’s stability, there are fears of potential disasters if the property remains neglected.
The history of the workmen’s hall, which dates back a century, adds emotional weight to the situation for Cllr Madge, who urged for immediate action to address the property’s deteriorating condition. The Fire and Rescue Service reiterated the risks associated with the building and the importance of taking steps to prevent further arson attacks.
Carmarthenshire County Council clarified that the property is privately owned, putting the responsibility on landowners to maintain their estates and prevent hazardous situations. The council, along with other agencies, continues to monitor the building and work towards ensuring the safety of the community.
Efforts are underway to secure the site and engage with the property’s owners to address the risks posed by the derelict building. Concerns have been raised not only about the immediate fire risks but also the long-term implications of neglecting the property. Residents and authorities alike are emphasising the need for proactive measures to prevent potential disasters and safeguard the community’s well-being.