Quite frankly I thought it was a hotel or leisure site right now! What exactly do our beloved council spend most of their time doing? A North Wales council is to advertise its Grade II-listed HQ to gauge interest in the property. Conwy Council is inviting expressions of interest from both developers and potential occupiers for its Bodlondeb headquarters in Conwy.
The move was widely expected after councillors backed a “one-office strategy” in September 2023. A full business case was developed for centralising all council office services at Coed Pella in Colwyn Bay.
As part of that process, the Bodlondeb office in Bangor Road was identified for possible redevelopment via a long lease. As the property is located in a public park and woodland, the local authority anticipates it could be suitable for a "hotel or similar leisure use".
Council Council has reassured residents in Conwy that public access will be retained in “certain areas” within the Bodlondeb grounds. Existing amenities will also be retained. Cllr Nigel Smith, cabinet member for sustainable economy said: “I’d also like to reassure the local community that the woodland, war memorial, cricket ground, tennis courts and children’s play area are not included in this proposal."
Commercial agent Avison Young is acting on behalf of the council, though the property has yet to be listed. Once expressions of interest have been received, informal discussions will take place with interested parties to learn more about their proposals.
The feedback will then be presented to a council project board, and will help shape the next stage of the process, including invitations to tender. The North Wales Live Whatsapp community for top stories and breaking news is live now - here’s how to sign up
Cllr Smith added: “We’re engaging with the market to ensure the most sustainable opportunity is brought to the site and therefore to the town of Conwy. We need to test the market to look at all options, but it’s important to note that we’re not seeking any formal bids or proposals at this stage.”
Councillors have previously expressed concern over a possible repeat of what happened to the former Civic Hall if Bodlondeb is placed on the market. The Civic Hall, and former library, is still owned by Conwy Council and is falling into disuse and disrepair.
JD Wetherspoon previously offered to turn the Grade II-Listed building into a pub, though subsequent plans have been outlined for a food hall, restaurant and a 16-room aparthotel. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
Chester-based developers Nautical Point Ltd submitted formal proposals in January 2024. However, the plans have met resistance from admirers of the building’s “fortified brutalism”. From......https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/councils-hq-offered-developers-hotel-28757043
Like we need another hotel and all of the pubs are closing down!
ReplyDeleteWhat about accommodation for Asylum seekers?
ReplyDelete