The award — part of the Avanti Community Award category — celebrates the Trust’s work in transforming the derelict office block into a space that retains its original architectural features while offering eight restored rooms used daily for meetings, adult education classes, and office space.
The plaque commemorating the achievement was officially unveiled last Friday by Nia Griffith MP, who chaired the Trust in a voluntary capacity for over 13 years.
“I’m delighted the high-quality work in the first phase of the restoration has been recognised,” said Griffith. “This will be a real boost to the morale of all those involved in restoring the rest of the Shed, to fulfil the vision of preserving this wonderful historic building, whilst repurposing it for the benefit and enjoyment of the people of Llanelli and beyond.”
The Llanelli Goods Shed, built in 1875, is a rare surviving example of Victorian railway architecture and played a key role in the town’s industrial development. The Trust’s long-term vision is to restore the entire site as a centre for heritage, enterprise, and community activity, with Phase 1 completed in 2022 and officially opened by the First Minister.
The National Railway Heritage Awards, established in 1979, honour excellence in the restoration and reuse of historic railway buildings across the UK. This year’s ceremony saw nearly 60 entries, with Llanelli’s project singled out for its community impact and architectural sensitivity.
More information about the Trust and its ongoing work is available on the Llanelli Railway Goods Shed Trust website.
