Name(s): Gareth Bryant
Role(s): Water Sports Development Officer
Location: Llandysul
Website: Llandysul Paddlers
Llandysul Paddlers
Can you tell us a little about your organisation, what inspired you to start, and its role within the local community?
Llandysul Paddlers is a community-focused outdoor activity centre based in Llandysul, West Wales. The purpose of our organisation is to provide access to a range of outdoor sports, particularly kayaking and canoeing, to people of all ages and abilities.
We aim to promote physical activity, personal development, and community engagement through outdoor adventure, while fostering environmental stewardship and a love for nature. The club was formed in 1984 and later the canoe centre in 1998. The centre is run as a not for profit organisation.
How has the UK SPF supported your business and what specific improvements or changes have you been able to make with the funding?
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UK SPF) has been instrumental in supporting Llandysul Paddlers, enabling us to make significant upgrades to our facilities and operations. With the funding, we were able to replace our old, inefficient oil heating system with a modern Air Source Heat Pump.
This new system is not only more energy-efficient but also a much cleaner energy source, significantly reducing our carbon footprint and environmental impact.
In addition to the heating system, we undertook a comprehensive upgrade of the building’s radiators, ensuring they are fully compatible with the new heat pump, and we also installed solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof. The solar panels now provide a renewable energy source, helping us reduce our reliance on external energy suppliers and lower our utility costs. These improvements have resulted in substantial savings on energy bills, contributing to the financial sustainability of the centre.
Overall, the UK SPF has allowed us to make these eco-friendly upgrades, enhancing the overall comfort and efficiency of our facility. These changes not only improve our operating efficiency but also align with our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, benefiting both our organisation and the local community.
What impact has this project had on the local community so far and how have they responded to the services/improvements you’ve made?
The recent improvements to Llandysul Paddlers have had a significant positive impact on the local community. The installation of the new heating system has made the centre much warmer and more inviting, especially during colder months. This enhancement has been particularly appreciated by our visitors and community groups, such as the History Society, who regularly use our facilities for meetings and events. The warmth and comfort of the centre has made it a more appealing place for people to gather and participate in various activities.
Furthermore, the project has allowed us to offer additional activities to cater to a broader range of interests. Notably, the Canoe Wales Slalom Team has utilised our upgraded facilities, allowing them to train and prepare for competitions in a more comfortable and accessible environment. These improvements have also had a direct positive effect on our Warm Hubs program, which serves as a social and support service for local residents, particularly during the winter months. The new heating system has made this initiative even more effective, offering a safe, warm space for people in need of a community hub. In terms of financial impact, the savings from the reduced heating costs have contributed to sustaining jobs at the centre, ensuring that we can retain staff members and continue to offer valuable services to the community.
The funds saved on energy costs have directly supported the retention of employees, allowing us to continue providing the high-quality outdoor activities and community-focused programs that our users enjoy. Overall, the improvements have been met with positive feedback from the community. People have expressed their gratitude for the increased comfort and the additional services offered, and we have seen an increase in engagement across all sectors, from local social groups to professional sports teams. The project has strengthened our role as a vital community resource, ensuring that Llandysul Paddlers continues to thrive as a hub for outdoor activity, social engagement, and local support.
