A CULTURAL corner of the Vale is being ‘reviewed’ to determine how to make it ‘financially sustainable', and changes could happen.
During the development of Cosmeston Park, excavations uncovered the remains of a community over 600 years old, and so began a unique archaeological project to restore what’s known as the ‘Cosmeston Medieval Village’.
However, there are fears the village could close, with not just the loss of jobs, but also valuable volunteering opportunities.
A resident near Cosmeston, who didn’t want to be named, claimed the site could be shut at the loss of staff that work there – and if the staff don’t work there, there will be no volunteering projects able to take place.
The resident said: “It seems quite ironic they have already started work on the new Ysgol Y Deri and the village would have been a perfect educational facility for them.”
However, Vale Council has hit back saying they have no plans to close the village, instead they are reviewing it to see whether the current operating model is ‘financially stable’, and say changes to the operation 'could happen'.
A council spokesperson said: "As part of the Council’s budget proposals for 2024/2025, visitor attractions in the Country Park are being reviewed in order to determine if they are financially sustainable going forward.
"The council hopes to conclude this review in the coming months.
"This may result in changes to operation of the Medieval Village ."
The medieval village was developed during the development of Cosmeston Park in 1978.
History of Cosmeston Lakes Medieval Village
The village is said to be set in the year 1350, described on the council website as “a fascinating time in history as the village had been given a new boost of life by the de Caversham family.”
The village lay in the rich agricultural lowlands of the Welsh kingdom of Morgannwg which, towards the end of the 11th century A.D., was conquered by the Norman lord, Robert Fitzhamon and was established as the Lordship of Glamorgan.
In 1766, when John the 4th Earl of Bute married Charlotte Windsor, the lands became the property of the family.
By 1824, all that remained of Cosmeston village were four isolated crofts and the Little Cosmeston Farmhouse.
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park and Medieval Village has been in the ownership of the Vale of Glamorgan Council since 1978.
What do you think about the medieval village being 'under review'? A loss to the county? Do you use it? Have you volunteered there?
Let us know in comments, on our Facebook page, or email harry.jamshidian@newsquest.co.uk.
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