SWANSEA Brangwyn hall is set to close for a year-long refurbishment today.

After seeing over 3,000 students graduate in cap and gowns last week, the £4.5m restoration project will see the doors close for the final time for essential work.

The grade one listed building needs to be maintained and “protected” for future generations.

Nick Bradley, Swansea council cabinet member for regeneration, said: “I am delighted that the hall is to be protected and restored for future generations of visitors to enjoy.

The historic building was first opened in 1934 and is one of the only buildings in central Swansea to escape the February 1941 blitz, which saw most of the city destroyed.

The restoration project will include electrical rewiring, plumbing and heating upgrades as well as weatherproofing.

With the hall possibly out of commission for students graduating in July 2014, speculation has grown about whether works will be completed in time, or the ceremony will move for the first time in living memory.