Historic Quarry Hospital Preserved Following Welsh Slate Donation

An historic quarry hospital which once treated generations of slate workers in North Wales has been preserved after a major donation from Breedon Group plc. 

The project was led by Cyngor Gwynedd and Cadw, while Welsh Slate, part of Breedon, supported the work by donating slate materials to the conservation project.

Penrhyn Quarry Hospital, known locally as Ysbyty Brynllwyd near Bethesda, has undergone extensive work to stabilise the remains of the Scheduled Monument after years of deterioration left the structure in a dangerous condition.

The work forms part of the Llewyrch o’r Llechi scheme, a cultural investment programme funded by the UK Government and led by Cyngor Gwynedd. It is part of a series of improvements resulting from the Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales World Heritage Site designation. Welsh Slate donated a range of products for use in the conservation work, including copings and sills.

Shaun Denny, Planning Manager at Breedon, said: “The old quarry hospital is an important part of the history of Penrhyn and the generations of people who worked here, so we’re really pleased to have been able to support its conservation.

“Welsh Slate has been part of this community for centuries and we have a responsibility to help look after the heritage that comes with that. Donating slate to the project was one way we could play our part, and it’s fantastic to see the work now nearing completion.

“The real value of the project will be in helping more people understand the stories behind the building and its connection to the community. We hope this means that history can continue to be explored and shared for generations to come.”

After

Historic Quarry Hospital Conservation

Built in the 19^th century to provide medical care for workers at Penrhyn Quarry, the hospital remains an important part of the area’s industrial and social history. Quarry workers contributed towards its running through regular payments, which gave them access to medical treatment if they were injured.

After the hospital stopped admitting inpatients in 1931, it continued to be used in a more limited capacity before eventually closing. Its condition deteriorated over the following decades.

A structural survey eventually found the surviving building to be unsafe, prompting work with Cyngor Gwynedd and Cadw to secure its future.

The conservation project has focused on stabilising and preserving the historic remains, allowing an important part of the area’s slate heritage to survive for future generations.

Before

Community Event

The completion of the work will be marked with a community event at Neuadd Ogwen in Bethesda on Tuesday, 29 September 2026.

Organised by local regeneration organisation Partneriaeth Ogwen, the event will bring together those involved in the conservation project to explain the work carried out and discuss ideas for the site’s future, including new on-site and digital interpretation, signage and the potential creation of a ‘Friends of the Quarry Hospital’ group.

It will also feature the premiere of Ein Hanes Ni, a short film following pupils from Ysgol Pen-y-bryn as they explore the history and heritage of Dyffryn Ogwen. Attendees will then have an opportunity to visit the quarry hospital itself, with transport provided by Partneriaeth Ogwen.

Councillor Medwyn Hughes, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Community, added: “The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 2021, and one of our main objectives in securing the status was to support the regeneration of our slate communities economically, socially and culturally.

“Penrhyn Quarry Hospital is a beloved landmark in Dyffryn Ogwen which had become neglected for many years. By working with the local community and Breedon Welsh Slate we have been able to invest in conserving this important site for future generations.”

The event takes place from 5pm to 6pm on Tuesday, 29 September at Neuadd Ogwen, Bethesda, with refreshments available from 4.30pm. It will be held in Welsh with simultaneous translation available.

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