Carl Sargeant, Welsh Government Minister for Housing and Regeneration has today seen for himself the work going on a £10.5 million regeneration project at the Foryd Harbour in Rhyl.
During his visit, Mr Sargeant took the opportunity to walk across Pont y Ddraig, the iconic pedestrian and cycle bridge that spans the Clwyd Estuary and links the communities of Rhyl and Kinmel Bay. The bridge which was opened in October provides the final link in 15 miles of traffic-free cycling across Denbighshire and Conwy.
The Pont y Ddraig project has been funded by Denbighshire County Council, Sustrans (through a Big Lottery Fund grant), the Welsh Government (with help from the European Regional Development Fund) and RWE npower renewables’ Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm Tourism Fund.
The development of the harbour includes a public square and quayside building to create a hub for the harbour, the surrounding dunes and beach areas.
The building will house a Harbourmaster’s office, as well as two units for lease – one of which is being equipped as a café/restaurant. The Council will be advertising for prospective tenants shortly.
The development includes new quay walls with pontoon facilities and a full size slipway, together with a mooring pontoon in the channel for an additional ten boats.
It is expected these additions will provide improved facilities for boat users, such as a pick up point for charter fishing boats, tie-up facilities for visiting boats, and for those bringing boats to be lifted out and stored in the boatyard at the harbour.
Housing and Regeneration Minister Carl Sargeant said:
“The development here in Foryd Habour has transformed the area and it is good to see the results of investment in the town. The new facilities at the harbour will attract visitors and residents alike, and I’m sure it will be a major attraction along the North Wales coast. “
Leader of Denbighshire, Councillor Hugh Evans OBE, who is also the Cabinet Lead Member for Regeneration, said:
“We are delighted that the Minister has seen for himself the efforts going on to regenerate the area around the Foryd Harbour.
“The developments really are taking shape and will provide a vibrant harbour area. This work also complements the regeneration work going on in other parts of the town and this development will open the door for future investments in the area.
“Seeing the developments actually taking place should give confidence to the local community that Denbighshire County Council and its key partners are working closely to improve the quality of life for residents, whilst carrying out environmental improvements that will encourage visitors and investors to the town”.
