The mystery investors who are set to breath exciting new life into Newtown’s social scene have revealed to MyNewtown that their new entertainment centre is to be called The Steam Mill.
Work has gone ‘full steam ahead’ since we revealed that the former Crystals building had been taken over by new custodians, who are still keeping their cards close to their chest.
But they have let our readers take a glimpse at the new identity and have revealed some of the work that has been taking shape inside one of Mid Wales’s most iconic buildings.
“We are really pleased with the progress so far and we are hoping for a July opening,” said one of the new backers, who is still remaining anonymous.
“It really is shaping up nicely and will provide Newtown with a great night out as it is going to be a live music venue, as well as a Saturday night club venue.
“We have gone with the Steam Mill to take into consideration Newtown’s rich history because we want the venue to become a focal point for the town. Somewhere that the town can be proud of and hopefully bring people in from outside to enjoy a nice night out.
“It will be much more than just a night club. It will be an entertainment venue to welcome all sorts of tastes and preferences.”
The former Crystals has gone through a major transformation with new toilets, boothed seating area, lighting, new DJ kit, as well as comprehensive painting and decorating.
“The carpet is gone!” the investor told us.
After the depression of the 1850s, Newtown factory owners began to use steam power with one, The Cambrian Mill, becoming the biggest woollen mill in Wales and employing 600 people.
Crystals closed its doors at Christmas, but we announced in January that it was set to rise from the ashes as a new venue. It is still unclear as to what the investors will be using the remaining floor space in the building for but we were informed, “all will be revealed soon!”