A MASSIVE £16m transformation of West Rhyl has been given the green light.
Denbighshire County Council has backed the West Rhyl Housing Improvement Project which will create new green open space by pulling down houses, renovating properties and a mixed use development on West Parade.
With funding from the Welsh Government it aims to improve investor confidence, create sustainable housing and address the “negative association the area currently has”.
West Rhyl councillor Joan Butterfield, leader of the county’s Labour group, said: “It is more good news for Rhyl.
“But now it has to be gotten on with. They have had the money for over a year.
“It has frustrated members that this has taken so long, we are all desperate for it to start.”
A first block of houses on Gronant Street, Aquarium Street, John Street and Abbey Street had been scheduled for demolition in June while a private developer will be sought to remodel other homes.
50-57 West Parade will be redeveloped with plans for housing, a hotel, leisure and office or retail space.
The project hopes to acquire 113 properties, with 42 already owned by the council through North Wales Costal Regeneration Area funding.
A report to members of the council’s cabinet, which approved the plans yesterday (Tuesday), described the proposals as “bold and ambitious”.
“It is considered the best way of creating the lasting change the area so clearly requires,” the report said.
“Addressing these long-standing issues will also help create a more positive impression of the town overall and thereby have more far-reaching regeneration benefits.”
Cllr Hugh Evans, leader of Denbighshire Council, said: “This is an exciting time for Rhyl and we are beginning to see plans for remodelling the housing offer in West Rhyl being progressed.
“This has been made possible through extremely effective partnership working, led by the Welsh Government and including Pennaf Housing, Clwyd Alyn and ourselves, and shows a real commitment from all partners to moving Rhyl forward.”