PLANS for a new music bar in Rhyl have come under fire from members of a religious charity.

Mr Gary Longworth has applied to Denbighshire County Council’s planning department, seeking permission to change the use of the shop at 39 Wellington Road to a gallery and music bar.

Although Denbighshire’s planning officers are recommending councillors approve the plans for the empty shop, the council’s planning department has received letters of objection, including those from members of The Salvation Army charity.

Many of the members took issue with the proposed bar being near a church and pointed to work The Salvation Army does with people suffering from addiction problems.

Resident Sam Davidson of Elm Grove wrote: “A terrible location to put a bar next to a place of worship and a place where help is given to those struggling with addictions.”

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Diane Selby agreed.

She said: “As a member of The Salvation Army, I am totally against this application for yet another pub/bar in the town, especially when it is in such close proximity to our church building.

“We work alongside several organisations to help those who are struggling with addiction and need help getting themselves back on the right track.

“Yet another drinking establishment, of which there are many in Rhyl, would only exacerbate an already big problem with alcohol and substance abuse.”

She added: “The probable noise pollution and problems with our parking in what is already a very small car park will be difficult issues to overcome. I strongly object to the application being passed.”

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Susan Collins from Llandudno added. “I have recently been made aware of the proposed change of use for the above address in Rhyl.

“As this building backs onto the Salvation Army Hall on Windsor Street, and in fact shares a car parking area, I feel that it would be an inappropriate location for a bar/pub.

“We are working in the community to help with a wide range of needs and to support those seeking help with addictions.

“There are already many outlets for selling and partaking of alcoholic beverages in the town and nearby vicinity, and I feel that another so close to our building would undermine and encroach upon the work that we are doing.

“I do hope this matter will be given serious consideration when the time comes to decide if the application should be granted.”

Alan Rosenwould from Rhuddlan wrote: “Many of the people who make use of the facilities at The Salvation Army are vulnerable and are battling addictions.

“The last thing these people need is a bar/pub next door.

Surely there are enough pubs and clubs in the town already.

“Also the small car park attached to the army premises is already misused by businesses and people within the town, and the pub/club will make parking for The Salvation Army staff and soldiers even more difficult.”

Gareth Morris from Rhyl agreed. “As a member of The Salvation Army and (considering) the proximity to the hall of this proposed bar, we have people who attend our groups who are battling addictions, and that would be detrimental to their recovery,” he said.

“Also there is a public house nearby, and an additional drinking establishment will no doubt lead to further public disorder in that area.”

Rhyl Town Council, though, didn’t object to the proposals, and council officers have recommended the change of use is approved.