THE roof has been removed at the former Kwik Save warehouses in Prestatyn.
After years of uncertainty and frustration around the former Kwik Save warehouses on Warren Drive, money has been secured to rejuvenate the site for employment use.
The removal of the roof structures is being done over a period of four weeks. Further works are planned for this Spring.
Arwel Luke took these photos of the site on Tuesday, March 14 at about 5pm when the area was "deserted".
For years there has been concern about the condition of the buildings; ever since the supermarket chain left in 1998, the buildings have been left empty.
The site, which has become an eyesore, has become progressively more troublesome over the last decade and has attracted seagulls and vandals.
Dr James Davies, MP for Vale of Clwyd, who informed the Journal in February that work was to be carried out, said: "It’s wonderful to see the roof of the warehouses removed, as promised.
"I look forward to continuing to work with the developer and local residents to see the plans for the site realised."
Dr Davies said in February: “This site has been cause for concern for many years, and more so over the past decade, so the fact that improvements are finally set to be made is very positive news.
“Over recent years [and as former county councillor] I have held extensive communication with Denbighshire’s Planning and Economic Development Departments and current owners ‘James Industrial’. I have applied ongoing pressure on all parties for a resolution of what has been a very much unacceptable situation and it does now appear realistic that progress will be made."
The owner of the buildings intends to repair, divide and re-clad the warehouses to form modern light industrial units.
Dr Davies added: "Contractors have already been on site and quotes have been received, while a number of potential tenants have been identified.
“I am aware of the impact the site has been having on local residents and understand the unwelcome prospect of yet another seagull nesting season for those living in the immediate vicinity.
“I am also aware that there have previously been a number of failed attempts to address the state of the warehouses and that there are differing opinions about the best use of the site. However, I am confident that it does now appear that realistic that progress can be made and that the outcome will be a significant improvement.
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“Unfortunately, the planning history of the site has involved several complicated twists and turns, alongside various apparent changes of ownership. These have thwarted well-intentioned attempts to progress enforcement action for the tidying of the area.
“It has been a frustrating process for everyone involved, but finally it seems things are heading in the right direction and I look forward to seeing progress on the site soon.”
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