Glass by Design Penarth closes shop in wake of new programme

Glass by Design is closing its shop on Station Approach, Penarth, at the end of January to focus on workshops and community art projects.

The company will continue to create unique glass art pieces and accept commissioned works.

Creative minds behind Glass by Design, Cathy O'Doherty and Angelina Hall thanked customers for their support while the shop was open.

The duo said: “We want to say how amazing the last eight years have been surrounded by the most beautifully made artworks from our makers.

“We want to thank them for the lovely work they have left with us and wish them every success for the future.

“We also want to say how much we enjoyed meeting so many customers, and we will miss the everyday banter, laughter and the fun that went into designing our special feature windows.”

Glass By Design will continue to deliver community glass workshops through a “revamped glass workshop programme” supported by a recent Lottery Community Grant which has enabled them to work alongside local organisations including Woody’s Lodge, Rondel House, Horatio’s Garden, Marie Curie Hospice, Tŷ Hafan Childrens Hospice and Maggies, Cardiff.

Creative minds behind Glass by Design, Cathy O'Doherty and Angelina Hall will continue to work in the community (Image: Glass By Design)

High street’s ups and downs

There’s always trials and tribulations on the Vale's high streets.

In Barry, one of the biggest losses to high street trade was the closure of Wilkos store on Holton Road this year.

Independent traders like Karry's Deli has told of her struggles as people's purse strings tighten.

But there are success stories. Clever partnerships like new Holton Road store Etos pre-loved children's items working with charity Baby Basics to help them have a presence on the high street.

In neighbouring Penarth, retailers like Gwil's Emporium say opening up has been a huge success while other retailers including Shaws, M&Co and the Salvation Army have fallen away.

Gwil of Gwil's Emporium says its been a delight opening on the high street (Image: Newsquest)

Peacocks recently opened in Penarth (Image: Newsquest)

Established brands like Mint And Mustard and Bar44 have had to overcome massive challenges with the rise in energy prices, while, even in these cost crisis times, stores have managed to open – including Peacocks and an antiques flea market in the centre of town.

Penarth's high street still fighting to be vibrant (Image: Google Maps)

• Penarth's flea market a great place for Christmas shopping

And there’s still plans for more, with a new bar and restaurant on the corner of Windsor Road and Hickman Road currently in development.

Glass by Design closes its retail store on January 31, 2024.

To book workshops with Glass By Design, or to get in contact, visit www.glassbydesign.co.uk.

Got a story in Penarth? Want to comment on a story? Email harry.jamshidian@newsquest.co.uk.