UPDATE: The long-awaited redevelopment of Colwyn Bay’s historic Civic Centre is officially moving forward, with plans to transform the derelict landmark into a modern “apart-hotel” within the next two years. Businessman Robin Brookes, owner of Eirias Coastal Park Hotel Ltd, confirmed that preparatory work has already begun, aiming to breathe new life into the Grade-II listed building.
The redevelopment plan includes a 53-bed apart hotel and 50 electric vehicle charging points, along with a 24-hour vending shop. Brookes stated, “At the moment, we are trying to get the infrastructure in place. This should be completed within two years.” This news comes as residents express frustration over the prolonged state of disrepair at this prominent location.
At a recent finance and resources scrutiny committee meeting, Old Colwyn councillor David Carr voiced strong concerns, emphasizing that the community feels “very unhappy” about the Civic Centre’s condition. He pointed to the £250,000 sale price and stated that locals have been “promised” a hotel that has yet to materialize, citing the building’s ongoing dereliction as a source of disappointment for the community.
The Civic Centre has remained unoccupied since 2018 when council staff relocated to new offices. After its sale in late 2022 to hotelier Ian Robbins, plans for a multi-million-pound four-star hotel fell through, leaving the property in disrepair. A Section 215 notice was subsequently issued by Conwy County Council due to the building’s condition. The council confirmed that the original notice was not complied with, resulting in a guilty plea and fines totaling £1,050.
Authorities have faced numerous challenges in redeveloping the Civic Centre. A council spokeswoman explained, “Economic conditions led to a collapsed transaction back in 2021 for an office scheme, where refurbishment costs were just under £2 million at that moment in time.” Following failed attempts to find viable solutions, the property was re-marketed, leading to the current plans under Eirias Coastal Park Hotel Ltd.
Despite assurances from the new owners that they are engaging with the council, the Civic Centre remains boarded up and overgrown, years after the initial hotel proposal was announced. Residents are eager for updates as the redevelopment begins, hoping for a swift transformation of this crucial community landmark.
As the project progresses, all eyes will be on Colwyn Bay to see how quickly the Civic Centre can transition from a state of neglect to a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. Stay tuned for ongoing updates on this developing story.
