North Wales seaside town's multi-million pound regeneration project backed by planners

A flagship development to transform key buildings in the heart of Rhyl town centre has been recommended for approval by planners.

The Queen's Buildings in Rhyl cover 2.3 acres, with plans submitted to demolish much of it so a food and market hall to replace the dilapidated Queen's Market can be built, with 16 permanent market stalls and a further six units.

There are also plans for an events space, open areas, sub-station, library and a refurbishment of the Queen's Chambers building.

As part of the package, outline planning approval has also been sought for up to 80 apartments on the site.

An internal audit by Denbighshire council revealed this key scheme had been beset by spiralling costs, meaning the budget for the first phase of the scheme had doubled to around £15m.

Images of how the public squares could look in the new development (ShedKM architects)

But planning officers are recommending the scheme gets the green light - with the planning committee at the local authority to consider the proposal next Wednesday.

Planners said: "Having regard to the responses from key consultees, other representations, the planning policies and material considerations, officers consider that the proposal would have a positive impact on the town centre, and deliver a development that is broadly in keeping with the council's policies and guidance, the NDF Future Wales and PPW.

"Given the phased nature of the development in recommending the grant of permission, officers are suggesting the imposition of a range of conditions, and recognise that due consideration would need to be given to the detailing of reserved matters proposals in terms of local impacts and further planning policy requirements."

The design and access statement (DAS) shows the proposed development will comprise of:

• 80 residential units (including 32 one bed and 48 two bed apartments)
• Food hall containing 16 permanent market stalls with flexible space for additional stalls
• Multi use event space
• 1804 m2 of food and beverage/retail space
• 5794 m2 of public library/offices
• 4850 m2 of external public space

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