PLANNING consent has been approved for the Queen’s Building project in the heart of Rhyl town centre, with the first phase of the scheme expected to start on site early in 2022.

The work will start once the current demolition process is completed.

This first phase will see the construction of a new indoor market hall, event space and external landscaped area, along with the refurbishment of the Queens Chambers – the red brick building on Sussex Street.

The funding for this development has been provided by the Council and Welsh Government, and Wynne Construction has been appointed through the North Wales Construction Partnership (NWCP) framework to construct the building.

Wynne have successfully delivered other projects in the town such as the Travelodge hotel.

Cllr Hugh Evans, leader of Denbighshire County Council and Lead Member for the Economy, said: “We are pleased to have received planning permission which allows us to press on with the first phase of this significant regeneration project.

“This site is now another step closer to being transformed into a completed key development within Rhyl town centre.

“Queen’s Buildings has already provided job opportunities for local residents during the construction phase and will continue to do so when complete, which will benefit the whole of Denbighshire.

“This is the biggest milestone to date for the Queen’s Buildings, the key catalyst project within the Rhyl Regeneration programme, I look forward to continuing watching it progress.”

Outline planning consent has also been granted for future phases of the scheme, which includes new commercial and office space and the development of new residential apartments overlooking the seafront.

The details of these future phases are still being developed, but it is hoped construction will start soon after the first phase has been completed next year.

A council spokesperson said the demolition work is expected to be completed in December.