TWO students from Ysgol John Bright School met the Levelling Up Minister during her tour around Venue Cymru.

Felicity Buchan MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Housing and Homelessness), visited the theatre after it was revealed Venue Cymru had been awarded £10million in the Chancellor's Spring Budget 2024.

Ms Buchan was accompanied by Robin Millar, MP for Aberconwy. 

She was shown around the theatre auditorium and conference facilities by Sarah Ecob, Head of Economic Development at Conwy Council, and members of the Venue Cymru team, were also present as well as cllr Charlie McCoubry, leader of the council.

Ms Buchan said: “I was delighted to visit Venue Cymru and see for myself its cultural and economic importance to the region. I can see how the grant will bring much needed improvements for the arts and also conferences.

"Levelling Up is all about creating opportunity. I could sense the excitement at the local potential this grant can unlock and the vision for digital arts was compelling."

Mr Millar said: "Venue Cymru is the largest conference and arts venue in Wales outside Cardiff – and plays a huge role in our local economy. People who visit for shows and events will book hotel rooms in town, eat out, buy gifts and visit other attractions in the area – and we know they come back.

"This investment will secure the fabric of the building, improve the experience for visitors and also develop a digital arts hub for the future. It will be a big lift for local hospitality businesses.”

During her visit, the minister met two students from Ysgol John Bright School who performed as Roxie and Velma in the school’s recent production of ‘Chicago’ at Venue Cymru. 

Mr Millar said: "This investment in a modernised Venue Cymru secures opportunities for the Velmas and Roxies and artists of the future.

"It will benefit and enhance arts across the region and it will be a significant economic boost to Llandudno and Aberconwy.”

The council will meet with Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities officials in the coming weeks to finalise plans and establish the timescale for improvements.