Construction work has started on a £9m scheme to restore the Gwyn Hall in Neath, South Wales, two years after the venue was severely damaged by fire.

Swansea-based contractor John Weaver has been appointed to carry out the scheme, the first stage of which includes stonework repairs, cleaning and re-pointing. The main restoration work is set to get underway in the New Year. Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council (NPTCBC) leader Ali Thomas said: "This is the beginning of the council's commitment to the re-building of the Gwyn Hall which has been at the heart of the local community for many years.

"Rebuilding the Gwyn Hall will give us a wonderful opportunity to ensure the people of Neath have a cultural and arts venue to be proud of." When complete, the restored Gwyn Hall – designed by Holder Mathias Architects – will feature a ground-floor theatre with retractable seating for a range of functions, a cinema and a café. The venue will also be fully inclusive for all ages and abilities.

It is hoped that the scheme will transform the venue into a major arts and cultural facility for the local area, which was the aim of a £4m project that had been underway at the time of the fire in October 2007.