A CALL for clarity has been made about the future of the Queens Hotel in Blaenau Ffestiniog, following its sale and displacement of its long-standing licensee and residents.
The hotel, was damaged by a fire in July and sold by Admiral Taverns without notifying licensee Angi Clinton, who had invested in the business and provided accommodation to vulnerable individuals on the Gwynedd housing waiting list.
Liz Saville Roberts, Plaid Cymru MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd has warned that the loss of the Queens Hotel as a community asset could have long-term consequences for the town.
She added that it risks undermining successful efforts by community groups to improve the town centre.
Mrs Saville Roberts MP said: “The Queens Hotel is more than just a building - it has been a vital part of Blaenau Ffestiniog’s hospitality sector and a source of community support.
“Its sudden sale, without consultation or transparency, has left local people shocked and concerned.’
“Admiral Taverns have shown a disturbing lack of duty of care towards licensee Angi Clinton, her staff, and the residents who relied on the hotel for shelter and employment.’
“Their actions have undermined trust and disregarded the human impact of their business decisions. I am calling for immediate clarity from the new owners.
“The community deserves to know who now owns the Queens Hotel and what their intentions are.
“I urge them to engage with local stakeholders and consider restoring the building as a catering and hospitality venue, which would help regenerate the town and create jobs.”
The Queens Hotel sustained considerable damage in a fire on Saturday, July 5.
Multiple fire service crews were called to the premises at about 11.10am after a fire broke out, with a stop not called to the incident until 7.33pm.
North Wales Police said a "joint investigation" was underway with the fire service, with items from the hotel also reported to have gone missing.
Blaenau Ffestiniog councillor, Elfed Wyn ap Elwyn, added: “I want to express my deep sympathy to Angi Clinton, who has been treated unfairly after years of dedication to the Queens Hotel.
“It is heart-breaking to see the building in such a poor state, especially given its central role in the town’s identity.
“The Queens should be restored for the benefit of the community - ideally as a hotel and catering venue that brings life and opportunity back into the heart of Blaenau.
“This building has long been a symbol of the town, and it deserves a future that reflects its past.”
In response, a spokesperson for Admiral Taverns said: “We can confirm that the freehold of the Queens Hotel, Blaenau Ffestiniog, has been sold to an experienced investor in public houses of this nature.
“Following a thorough review of our options after the fire in July 2025, it became clear that reinvestment in the site by Admiral Taverns was not sustainable, and the sale of the property represented the most appropriate way forward.
“Throughout this difficult period, we have worked closely with the licensee to provide support and have liaised with the fire service and structural engineers to ensure the site remains safe."
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