A POTENTIAL ‘golden opportunity’ could be on the way for the site of Llandudno's Pier Pavilion.
In a statement released on Tuesday, April 12, developer Alan Waldron - whose earlier projects have included a scheme for the derelict Deganwy dock, including the prestigious Quay Hotel - announced that he had secured and intended to redevelop the pavilion site, which has remained uncleared and has been regarded as an eyesore since being destroyed by a fire in 1994.
Mr Waldron said: “I intend to redevelop the site to the highest standard with a combination of underground car parking, commercial floor-space and residential units.
"To that end, early liaison is taking place with Conwy Council and Mostyn Estates on the concepts of design and I am working closely with the owners of the pier on matters of joint interest.
"Progress will also involve CADW in respect of Listed Building interests and the Design Commission. “
But after speaking with Mr Waldron, who intends to complete the planning application process within the next 12 months, Llandudno Pier owner Adam Williams said he has concerns about the wider impact of the plans.
He said: "We've had a conversation. I'm failing to see what benefit there is on offer for Llandudno Pier.
"In fact I feel that whatever goes on that site, if it doesn't involve Llandudno pier it will be detrimental to the pier mainly for financial reasons.
"If we have to share the commercial pound and the pier doesn't get its full pound, or the concessions that are on the pier decide to move to the pier pavilion site the pier will lose income.
"Therefore there will be less funds for the refurbishment and upkeep - I have a concern that if the funds become so low the business would not be viable.
"Then we end up with a situation similar to Colwyn Bay Pier, which should never happen.
"It deters me from investing more if someone else is going to reap the pier's rewards."
Councillor Graham Rees, Conwy’s cabinet member for tourism, marketing and leisure, said: “The Pier Pavilion site has been an eyesore for decades and many people will be eager to hear about proposals to develop the site.
“This exciting proposal is another demonstration of confidence of people willing to invest in Llandudno; with the potential to be a major contribution to economic investment in the town.
“This is a golden opportunity for a quality redevelopment at a key tourism site and I wish Mr Waldron and his team every success in their endeavour.”
Cllr Frank Bradfield, Mayor of Llandudno, said: "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to do something that visitors and residents would delight in. It has been abandoned for far too long."