Supporting exciting plans for the redevelopment of Rhyl’s Queen’s Market, Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies has urged developers and Denbighshire County Council to maintain their ambition for the project, regardless of the current, temporary economic woes arising from the pandemic.
James, who has been enthusiastic about the proposals since they were first mooted, is keen to ensure that the current situation does not affect the redevelopment, which he believes has the potential to bring “some much-needed economic and demographic change to the town”.
In his response to the pre-application consultation, he states:
“While appreciating the challenges involved, I have for a number of years been keen to encourage the council to pursue a redevelopment of the Queen’s Market buildings – in part to continue the enhancement of the seafront, but particularly because I believe that the ailing town centre is in desperate need of a major regeneration scheme.
“A successful redevelopment of this site can not only attract and generate much additional footfall in itself, but also encourage more of those visiting the increasingly regenerated seafront to venture into the town centre. It is also undeniable that Rhyl, as a seaside resort, needs a greater range of modern tourist attractions.
“The indicative plans are ambitious and I would encourage Ion Developments and the county council to maintain that ambition, regardless of the current, temporary economic woes arising from the pandemic. Many previous regeneration schemes in Rhyl have been ineffective as they have largely been cosmetic only, whereas this project has the potential to bring some much-needed economic and demographic change.”
James said he shares the disappointment of many that “Little Venice” has long since gone and that it is not possible to save more of the original buildings, particularly the Queen’s Arcade, or Ballroom, but, having inspected the state of the interior, understands the approach being taken and praised the decision to retain and refurbish the Sussex Street entrance and to adopt a fresh and modern design of which the town can be proud.
He added:
“If the development is to have the desired effect, it needs to ensure a quality offer which matches or preferably exceeds similar offers in other towns and seaside resorts. The proposed finishes, innovative lighting and landscaped public squares are promising in this respect but I would encourage the council to be bold with respect to residential apartment specifications and tenures, hospitality and retail tenants, and in ensuring that views over the raised promenade and towards the sea are improved. This redevelopment project is not market-led but should be aiming to set a new standard for Rhyl with the aim of spurring on other developments nearby which the market can have confidence in investing in.”
James emphasised the importance of the proposed development for job creation and called for local people to be prioritised during the development, demolition, construction and operational stages. He also stressed that he would be keen to see collaboration with local schools, colleges and the job centre to ensure tailored training opportunities.
James’s response concludes: “I am very much in support of the Queen’s Market redevelopment proposals and would welcome the opportunity to work with you in assembling a funding package and refining the detail of the plans. I believe this is an excellent opportunity for the town and can be a catalyst for wider regeneration and investment.”
