THE process of selecting a contractor for phase one of the Queen’s Buildings development has started.

Demolition is currently underway at the Rhyl site.

Funding for construction of the first phase of the redevelopment has been secured from both the council and Welsh Government and the planning application for the redevelopment of the site has been submitted with a decision anticipated in the coming months.

The first phase of the redevelopment will involve a food hall and market hall, event space and refurbishment of the existing red brick building on Sussex Street, along with landscaping of the remainder of the site subject to future development phases.

Graham Boase, Corporate Director for Economy and Public Realm at Denbighshire County Council, said: “This is a massive project for the regeneration of Rhyl, it will transform the town centre, linking it with the new developments along the Promenade and the beach. There will be great job opportunities for local residents during the construction phase and as part of the completed development. We can already point to the fact that three local residents have been employed as part of the demolition that is currently on going.

“There can’t be a more exciting and significant regeneration project in the region, and we are proud the Council has taken a lead to address the dereliction of the site and look forward to working with partners and the private sector to secure a new chapter in the life of this site and the town of Rhyl.

“We are sure many local companies will be interested in being part of the procurement process to construct the first phase of this ground breaking project.”

A report will be presented to the council’s cabinet on Tuesday, April 27 seeking authority to commence the procurement process to find a main contractor for phase one via the North Wales Construction Partnership (NWCP) for the redevelopment.

Once the procurement process has been completed, the council will seek the approval of cabinet, probably in July, to officially award the contract to the successful contractor.