Developer Confirms Transformation of Colwyn Bay Civic Centre

The redevelopment of the historic Civic Centre in Colwyn Bay is set to move forward following a period of uncertainty. Developer Robin Brookes, representing Eirias Coastal Park Hotel Ltd, announced that the long-derelict Grade-II listed building will be transformed into a 53-bed apart-hotel within the next two years. Alongside the hotel, plans include the installation of 50 electric vehicle charging points and a 24-hour vending shop.

Brookes stated, “We are converting the Civic Centre into a 53-bed apart hotel with 50 electric vehicle charging points with a 24-hour vending shop. At the moment, we are trying to get the infrastructure in place. This should be completed within two years.” His comments come amidst ongoing public scrutiny regarding the future of the building.

Concerns about the Civic Centre’s deteriorating condition were raised again during a recent finance and resources scrutiny committee meeting. David Carr, a councillor representing Old Colwyn, expressed frustration over the prolonged neglect of the site, emphasizing that residents are “very unhappy.” He pointed out that locals felt misled after the building was sold for £250,000, believing they had been promised a hotel that never came to fruition.

The Civic Centre, which has stood empty since council staff relocated in 2018, was sold in late 2022 to Ian Robbins, a hotelier associated with Parc Eirias Hotel Ltd. Initial plans to convert the site into a four-star hotel fell through, leading to its current state of disrepair. In response, Conwy County Council issued a Section 215 notice, which resulted in legal action due to non-compliance. The council confirmed that the fine related to this action amounted to £1,050.

Multiple attempts to redevelop the Civic Centre have faced significant challenges. A council spokesperson provided insight into the obstacles encountered, noting that the property is now in third-party ownership and that previous economic conditions led to the collapse of a proposed office scheme back in 2021. This plan involved refurbishment costs nearing £2 million, which became untenable.

The spokesperson explained, “Two firm proposals came forward following the re-marketing of the former Civic Offices, and options were put to members within a report in April 2022. Following the sale to Parc Eirias Hotels Ltd, the refurbishment costs increased, which made their scheme unviable and led to its transfer to the new owner.”

Despite these developments, the Civic Centre remains boarded up and overgrown, highlighting the community’s frustration over the drawn-out process. Although the new owners are reportedly engaging with the council through their agent, the lack of visible progress has left many residents skeptical about the future of this landmark building.

As the planned transformation takes shape, the emphasis remains on addressing local concerns and ensuring that the redevelopment meets community expectations. The coming months will be crucial in determining how the Civic Centre can be revitalized and serve the needs of Colwyn Bay residents once again.