Why work is taking place at the old Woolworths in Rhyl

The much-loved shop closed to shoppers in 2009.

In 2023, the owner of the former Woolworths building was issued with a formal notice from Denbighshire County Council, requiring them to improve the poor condition of the building.

A spokesperson from the local authority said: "As a result, the owner undertook extensive repairs, including a modern paint scheme, the replacement of broken windows and the refurbishment of coloured panelling.

Work is taking place to the former Woolworths in Rhyl (Image: Duncan Nield-Siddall)
"Denbighshire County Council will continue to work constructively with the owner of the building, with works due to be completed by Spring 2024."

Woolworths, renowned for its pick 'n' mix sweets and bargain prices, shut its last British branches in 2009 following the financial crash.

Scaffolding put up around the former Woolworths building in Rhyl (Image: Pfc Anthony Leathley)
RELATED STORIES: Readers share their memories of Woolworths in Rhyl

Now, a decade later, the shop is arguably the most missed on Rhyl's High Street.

Readers have been sharing their fond memories of Woolworths on the Journal's Facebook page, or 'Woolies' as it's lovingly referred to by residents.

Cheryl Williams wrote: "I had a DVD player from that shop for my birthday/Christmas present years ago. I still have it and I am pretty sure it still works. As a kid I loved everything! Sweets music and loads there within."

Deb Lester-Owen said: "Ladybird clothes were well made and affordable. You could buy anything there from sweets to car accessories.

"Was a great loss when they closed."

Terry Brown wrote: "Being able to wander around each counter and down the end to the gardening section. What about the wonderful sweet selection."

Others made comments on the appearance of the building.

Kay Louise Redhead said: "I miss the building looking like it was looked after."

Derek Hollins said: "A building that looks like it's not a habitable building that shows the town and more run down than it is. No maintenance been done on this building for many years. It's a shame for the people trying to run a business from it and other around it."

Julia Jones said: "It’s not just the Woolworths building, all the shop fronts look a disgrace. Bring back the old shop fronts, make them look appealing. The whole street is so uninviting."