Newport’s historic Lysaght Institute in Lliswerry faces the end of events and venue hire on 31 December 2026 unless a replacement operator can be found.
Codi Group announced in August that it would withdraw from running the site and providing its venue-hire services, although the crèche will continue operating.
A community meeting is being held in the institute’s ballroom on Tuesday, 27 October, at 6pm to consider a community-led approach to running the building.
Newport councillors Mark Howells, Allan Morris, Andrew Sterry and James Peterson are organising the session with Codi Group.
The Lliswerry Independent Group on Newport City Council is led by Cllr Howells.
Those behind the meeting hope residents, charities and other community organisations will gain an understanding of the opportunities and responsibilities involved in managing the property.
No commitment will be required from attendees on the night.
Discussions are expected to address funding, operating costs and the practical duties associated with running the building, while Codi Group representatives will explain the situation and consider potential arrangements with interested organisations.
Originally constructed as a social club for workers at the former steelworks, the institute has served generations of residents through celebrations, performances and a wide range of local gatherings.
It is also known for its fully sprung dance floor.
The site was refurbished after Linc-Cymru purchased it in 2012.
Cllr Morris, whose father was employed by Lysaght, has described the building as a central community venue that hosted parties, sports days and other events over many years.
It continues to host local activities, including wellbeing sessions for teenagers and a small library containing children’s books donated by the public.
Cllr Howells said the institute holds an important place in Lliswerry and throughout Newport.
He added that the number of people offering assistance after the closure announcement had been encouraging and that the meeting would allow local organisations to assess what support might be available.
Cllr Morris said residents were disappointed by the announcement but believed the situation still offered a positive opportunity.
People unable to attend the meeting can contact the Lliswerry Independent Councillors for further involvement.