Swansea-based contractor John Weaver has been appointed by the Vale of Glamorgan Council (VGC) to revitalise a historic Pumphouse in Barry, South Wales.

The Grade II-listed No.1 Dock Hydraulic Pumping House is set to benefit from a £1m external restoration designed by Pembroke-based Acanthus Holden Architects as part of a wider Innovation Quarter for the town. Funded by the council and the Welsh Assembly Government, the plans have been designed to preserve one of Barry's most important industrial heritage sites - first opened during the 1880s.

VGC leader Gordon Kemp said: "This important Innovation Quarter project will save an historic building for the benefit of future generations as well as creating much needed construction jobs for the South Wales economy. "It will also boost the regeneration of the waterfront by restoring a property that in its current derelict state creates a poor image."

Welsh deputy minister for housing and regeneration Jocelyn Davies added: "Barry was established earlier this year as a Strategic Regeneration Area and I hope this important project will be followed by many other regeneration projects that will enhance the area for residents and visitors, and bring economic benefits to the town."