The forest centre at Garwnant will be showcasing the best of what the area has to offer when the new facilities officially open next month.
While the £1.7 million centre is set to attract people from far and wide, Forestry Commission Wales has ensured that there’ll be strong community involvement at the stunning forest location.
The Commission, which manages the Visitor Centre and surrounding forest on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government, has awarded the tender for the new restaurant and coffee shop to local company Just Perfect Catering and Events.
The company, which was set up just over a year ago by Louise Samuel, employs local people and sources local produce in its determination to give something back to the communities that it works in.
The Visitor Centre, just five miles from Merthyr Tydfil, has been slowly taking shape recently during a phased re-opening since undergoing extensive refurbishment over the past three years.
Facilities include a new information centre, an education/conference hall, upgraded walking trails (including an all-ability walking trail), mountain bike trails, a bike park, an adventure play area and animal puzzle trail.
Sam Detheridge, Visitor Centre Manager, said, “The new centre and the spectacular backdrop of the forest make this an ideal place to eat out, and I’m thrilled that our caterers will be putting such a strong emphasis on local people and food.”
Louise said, “For me, running a business is not just about making money, it’s about supporting and giving back to the local communities, and Just Perfect Catering has ensured this by employing nine local people.”
The coffee shop and restaurant offer a wide variety of hot and cold food and are open seven days a week from 10am.
