Rhyl seafront development back on track

Mar 10 2010 by Martin Williams, Denbigh Visitor

Ocean Plaza plans

DEVELOPERS who bought up land earmarked for an £85m seaside complex plan to build leisure centre, apartments, offices and a hotel on the site.

In February, the Visitor reported how the Ocean Plaza plot on West Parade in Rhyl had been purchased by Scarborough Development Group (SDG).

SDG acquired the business and assets of Modus Properties and seven other companies in its portfolio in a deal worth £37m, after the Manchester company went into administration last June.

Local residents, politicians and business owners were concerned the project would be shelved in favour of an alternative, smaller development.

But last night they breathed a sigh of relief when Scarborough’s managing director Mark Jackson confirmed they had big plans for the coastal resort.

As well as the proposed 95,000sq ft Asda store there will be an 80 bedroomed hotel, 20,000 sq ft of offices, a stand alone leisure unit and 234 sea front apartments.

Mr Jackson said: “SDG and our funding partners Investec are delighted to bring these projects forward at what we believe will prove to be an opportune time. We are a new and energetic company backed by great experience, and we are delighted to be one of the first companies to make a significant commitment to stepping back into development.”

Development manager Jason Rockett was in agreement and said: “We look forward to working with Denbighshire County Council, the Welsh Assembly Government and the local people to deliver this important mixed use scheme.

“This major regeneration project can act as a catalyst to further development in the area stimulating economic growth and employment.”

Vale of Clwyd MP Chris Ruane added: “This is great news for Rhyl.”