PROPOSALS to develop four apartments for “general needs” accommodation on the site of a former school have been lodged with planners.

Denbighshire County Council (DCC) are commissioning a “functional, yet stylish” building on the former Bodnant Infants School site on Marine Road in Prestatyn.

Four one bed self-contained apartments have been designed by Passivhaus designers JPH Architects Ltd, in conjunction with DCC’s property services department.

Cllr Anton Sampson, Prestatyn East ward, said: “I feel sad about losing a building that has history and holds memories for so many people, but at the same time, I don’t like seeing empty sites going to ruin and unless there is a practical and realistic long term use for it then I think it’s our responsibility to do what is best.

“There are many types of housing needs in our area which include one bedroom accommodation. We also have to consider the positive fact we are also living longer which means we also have to provide accommodation for this sector too.

“This particular development is part of the council’s plan to provide 170 houses by 2022. More work needs to be done to provide additional homes within the area but we need to be mindful on where these houses are located. One of my priorities has always been about the environmental impact of developments and ensuring that we maintain the natural beauty we are so lucky to have.”

A spokesperson for the county council said: “The first phase of the development is being jointly funded by a Welsh Assembly innovation grant, in addition to funding by DCC.

“Upon completion of Phase Two of the site re-development, a proposed pedestrian link will allow access between Marine and Caradoc Roads. Subject to achieving planning consent, the first phase of the redevelopment will begin at the end of April.”