Welsh seaside resort that's lost attractions will now see car park closed over winter to save money

The underground car park at Rhyl near Events Arena, where the drone racing took place
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


A seaside resort that's been hit by closures in recent months now faces losing one of its main car parks over winter. Rhyl's high street has been struggling since the pandemic - which came on top of the move to online shopping and shift by brands and local shoppers towards Prestatyn.

It has also been impacted by the closure of SeaQuarium and temporary closure of the SC2 waterpark after roof damage. The Skyflyer attraction failed to take off after technical problems while Queens Market has been redeveloped but remains empty.

The local authority has now decided to close the near 500 space Rhyl Central Car Park for four months over the winter. It is the underground car park on the seafront and close to Rhyl High Street.

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The council - which like other local authorities - is struggling to balance its budget says the move will save money on lighting and security.

North Wales Live was contacted by a resident concerned about the impact on the town centre.

The underground car park in Rhyl has been described as 'threatening' and poorly lit. It is to get a £2m upgrade
The underground car park in Rhyl -Credit:OdoubleG

The resident, who didn't want to be named, said: "The Golden quarter (for anyone who works in retail knows) is the period of the year where the majority of sales are made. This is the time where retailers and businesses are fighting for every penny they can. This is at a time where the doom and gloom of higher taxes and budget cuts looms.

"And Denbighshire make the wonderful decision to close the only car- park within convenient walking distance to our shops, our seafront amusements and our cinema. Well done Denbighshire. Another wonderful decision to really benefit out high street."

He said he wasn't aware of any consultation about the move before any decision was made.

Denbighshire council said: "Rhyl Central car park will close on the 31 st October for the season and re-open on the 1 st March 25. This will assist with saving money on energy and security costs.”

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