An event for local businesses is being held at the refurbished Lysaght Institute in Newport this week.

The institute has always been a landmark building in Newport’s industrial history. Built by the firm of John Lysaght Ltd in 1928 as a venue for the Orb Steelworkers and their families to meet and socialise, it closed its doors 2001 and the building deteriorated rapidly.

In 2008 the institute was bought by Linc-Cymru for redevelopment and re-opened in November 2012 following an extensive £3m refurbishment.

Alun Harries, social enterprise manager at The Lysaght Institute, said: “We are incredibly proud of our new-look Lysaght. We have taken care to retain the iconic character of the building with its Art Deco inspired exterior including large balcony areas and landscaped gardens. However the interior has been radically transformed to create an exciting meeting, conference and events venue fit for the 21st century.”

To introduce the new building to local businesses, Alun and his team are hosting an open evening on Thursday June 12 from 5pm to 8pm. Businesses are invited for an informal chat with drinks and canapés, and the opportunity to tour the building and its facilities.

To attend and for further information Tel: 01633 284911 Email: Info@lysaght-institute.com, or visit www.lysaght-institute.com/businessopenevening/

The institute is run as a social enterprise, which means all profits are re-distributed to subsidise local community activities.