Rhyl stakeholders unite to shape £20M regeneration for Coastal Town’s Future





Rhyl stakeholders unite to shape £20M regeneration for Coastal Town’s Future

Daniel Bevan - Senior Journalist
A broad coalition of business leaders, politicians, third-sector organisations, and local stakeholders gathered this month to launch a £20 million regeneration strategy aimed at revitalising the seaside town of Rhyl.
Held at Rhyl Rugby Club, the first thematic workshop hosted by the Rhyl Neighbourhood Board brought together more than 40 representatives from across sectors including health, housing, retail, education, transport, and tourism. The workshop marked a significant milestone in shaping the long-term vision for Rhyl under the Our Rhyl/Ein Rhyl strategy, funded through the UK Government’s Levelling Up initiative.
Participants included the West Rhyl Young People’s Project, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Denbighshire County Council, Citizens Advice Bureau, DVSC, and local businesses such as Jean Emporium and the Kite Surf Café Bar. Political leaders Gill German MP and Gareth Davies MS were also in attendance, reinforcing the initiative’s cross-party and community-led ambitions.
Facilitated by Savills Director and Strategic Advisor Nick Bennett, the session focused on four core areas:
- Regeneration, High Streets, Heritage, and Transport
- Housing, Safety, and Security
- Health, Wellbeing, Work Productivity, and Skills
- Education, Opportunity, and Community Cohesion
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Bennett emphasised the importance of inclusive planning for Rhyl’s growing population: “The £20 million fund over 10 years is a starting point. Our goal is to leverage additional investment from public and private sectors. Today was about setting the foundation for those priorities — whether it’s education, transport, crime prevention, or environmental improvements.”
Rhyl’s unique assets, particularly its seafront and beach — described as “among the best in North Wales” — were highlighted as major opportunities for boosting tourism and local pride. Other priorities raised included the creation of more green spaces, stronger small business support, improved public safety, and embedding health outcomes into every aspect of future development.
Business owners expressed optimism about the plan’s potential to transform the town’s economic landscape.
Nadeem Ahmad, owner of Jean Emporium and Board member, said: “Improving the high street and town centre experience is long overdue. We need to deliver for residents and visitors — and we need to get it right.”
Simon Jones, of the Kite Surf Café Bar, added: “Rhyl has the potential to be a true destination. Thousands of visitors enjoy the beach each week in summer — we need to build on that passion and maximise our coastal advantage.”
Board Chair Craig Sparrow called the event a “brilliant first step” toward a bold, long-term transformation: “We’ve captured a real spirit of collaboration and innovation. With the right strategy and momentum, we can double this £20 million investment and drive a lasting impact for future generations.”
The Rhyl Neighbourhood Board will now develop a detailed action plan based on insights from the workshop, with further community engagement sessions expected in the coming months.