A seaside town already reeling from recent closures is now set to lose one of its primary car parks during the winter months. Rhyl’s high street has been struggling since the pandemic hit, exacerbating the existing shift towards online shopping and the preference for nearby Prestatyn by brands and local shoppers. The town has also suffered from the closure of SeaQuarium, the temporary shutdown of SC2 waterpark due to roof damage, and the unsuccessful Skyflyer attraction. Despite redevelopment, Queens Market remains vacant.
In a cost-saving measure, the local authority has decided to close Rhyl Central Car Park, which offers nearly 500 spaces, for four months over winter. This car park is situated underground near the seafront and Rhyl High Street. The council, facing budgetary pressures like many other local authorities, claims that the closure will reduce expenditures on lighting and security.
A concerned resident reached out to North Wales Live about the potential negative effects on the town centre. The resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed disappointment at the decision, especially during the crucial “Golden quarter,” when retailers are fighting for sales. He criticised the closure of the only convenient car park for shops, seafront amusements, and the cinema without any prior consultation.
Denbighshire council stated that Rhyl Central car park will close on the 31st October for the season and re-open on the 1st March 25 to save money on energy and security costs. The move has stirred up frustration and concern among local residents and businesses who rely on the influx of visitors during the winter months for economic stability. The decision highlights the ongoing challenges faced by seaside towns trying to navigate through tough economic times.