Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre established as the new Headquarters for Literature Wales
On Friday 30 September, Literature Wales announced that the Tŷ
Newydd Writing Centre in Llanystumdwy is the organisation’s new
official headquarters.
Literature Wales’ new official home is in Gwynedd, a county rich in culture and the arts. This
formal change will see the first of Wales’ national companies* plant their roots in the north,
with the other seven based in south Wales – the majority in Cardiff with the exception of
Theatr Genedlaethol Cymru, based in Carmarthen.
Since Literature Wales was established in 2011, its headquarters has been in Cardiff Bay,
with staff members working from two main offices – the Glyn Jones Centre, Wales
Millennium Centre, and Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre. Both offices will remain open and provide
working spaces for the staff.
Tŷ Newydd was established as the National Writing Centre of Wales in 1990, and has
welcomed hundreds of writers from Wales and further afield to creative writing courses and
writing retreats ever since. Many notable writers have discovered their creative voices at the
centre, and countless others have been provided opportunities to develop their skills as
professional tutors and enjoy teaching the craft to others.
Councillor Dyfrig Siencyn, Leader of Gwynedd Council said: “This corner of Eifionydd has
a rich history, and I’m confident that the news that Literature Wales is moving its
headquarters to the area is the beginning of a new chapter in its story.
I welcome the fact that this notable organisation has decided to make this county its formal
home, underlining the fact that Gwynedd is a wonderful place to work. I’m sure this will
reinforce the cultural sector in the area, and that it will be a further boost to the rural
economy here.”
Liz Saville Roberts MP and Mabon ap Gwynfor MS said: “This is exceptionally exciting
news that is to be welcomed. We are extremely pleased that Literature Wales has chosen
Dwyfor as the new home of its headquarters, especially as this new home is Tŷ Newydd,
Llanystumdwy – a location with such rich history and a fantastic reputation for developing
literary talent both in Wales and beyond.
It is a matter of pride that Literature Wales is expanding its roots here in Gwynedd, setting an
important precedent to develop the artistic and cultural offer that enriches this county. We
trust that this news will lead to the protection and development of local job opportunities
together with strengthening the appeal of the area as a popular destination for writers, poets
and indeed, anyone interested in the art of writing. With preparations for the Llŷn and
Eifionydd National Eisteddfod in full swing, this exciting news lays a solid foundation for
developing what Gwynedd has to offer in terms of artistic culture. We look forward to
officially welcoming Literature Wales to Dwyfor."
Councillor Rhys Tudur, who represents Llanystumdwy on Gwynedd Council, said, "I am
extremely pleased that Tŷ Newydd is to be designated as the Headquarters of Literature
Wales, relocating from the capital to rural Dwyfor. It will be an economic and cultural boost
for the area and stimulate more interest in Welsh culture. The timing is perfect considering
that the National Eisteddfod is coming to Llŷn and Eifionydd next year."
Leusa Llewelyn, Artistic Director of Literature Wales, who has worked from the Centre
for seven years, says, "Tŷ Newydd represents our values as an organisation. It is welcoming
and warm, and its doors are always wide open. Our vision is a Wales that empowers,
improves and brightens lives through literature, and we look forward to continuing that vision
from a location that is very dear to our staff, our authors, and the various communities
related to our work. We look forward to having an even closer working relationship with the
community in Llanystumdwy, and to carry out literature projects for health and well-being,
giving something back to the village and the wider area that supports us."
