IT'S a new year and new plans for Rhyl's town centre have been revealed.

Denbighshire County Council (DCC) has received a £2.5million boost for plans to transform the former Queen's buildings to include an events space, new retail units and renovated car parking.

While the council agreed to purchase the neighbouring Savoy Hotel in April, approval for the Queen's complex on the High Street was hinged on external funding, which has now been confirmed by the Welsh Government.

Julie James, Minister for housing and local government, said: “The Queen’s Buildings make up a significant part of the town centre, and the site offers a fantastic opportunity to revitalise the town centre, creating new opportunities to attract businesses and investment to the town.

“This site dominates Rhyl, and I am keen for this investment to breathe new life into the centre of town, so that once again people are attracted back to spend money and time here.

“I know that Denbighshire Council is keen to develop the site, to create space for new retail units, renovate the car parking space and to build an exciting new event space for the public. I look forward to seeing the development take shape and come to benefit the town.”

This latest redevelopment will build on the work currently underway by the council the nearby waterfront area, which includes the new SC2 £15million water park and will join the £25million Marina Quay retail park developments.

The proposal will involve removing partially derelict town centre buildings to return them back into use, providing the complex with a sustainable and economically sound future as a part of the town's masterplan.

Cllr Hugh Evans, leader of Denbighshire County Council, said:“I welcome this funding from the Welsh Government which will contribute to the on-going regeneration of Rhyl by bringing partially derelict properties in the town centre back into use.

“It will provide opportunities for new jobs and business growth, as well as stimulating the private sector to undertake further investment in the town.

“This project will form a significant project in the overall masterplan for Rhyl and will complement the works going on in Rhyl including private sector investment, in new hotels and restaurants.”