The former Pontins holiday park in Prestatyn, once a thriving hub for holidaymakers, now sits abandoned, prompting uncertainty about its future. The closure of the park by owners Britannia in November 2023 has led to speculation and curiosity among locals and observers about what will become of the site located near Barkby Beach. Despite initial interest from Butlin’s in acquiring the location, there have been no significant developments since then, leaving the property in a state of limbo.
As uncertainty looms over the fate of the former holiday park, residents in Prestatyn have shared their hopes and concerns about the future of the site. Pete Davis, an 81-year-old resident and former Pontins employee, believes that the site, which he estimates can accommodate up to 5,000 people, should be revitalised rather than left abandoned. He suggests the council could intervene with a compulsory purchase order to facilitate its redevelopment into a holiday camp once again.
Another local, Doreen Hughes, who has been living in the area since 1973, also advocates for the site’s reuse as a holiday camp, emphasising the importance of preserving the site for recreational purposes. She opposes the conversion of the park into residential housing due to concerns about the lack of essential services in the area, such as healthcare facilities and schools. Their sentiments were echoed by Ethon Rice and his grandmother, Pat Fumagalli, who highlighted the deteriorating condition of the site and the need for urgent action to prevent it from falling into disrepair.
Former MP James Davies has called for the council to step in and expedite the process of acquiring the site for potential redevelopment. He noted the interest from multiple parties in the site and stressed the importance of securing its future use promptly. Prestatyn mayor, Cllr Adrian West, also expressed his desire to see the site put to productive use, preferably within the tourism sector to drive economic activity in the area. He emphasised the need for investment that aligns with the town’s attraction as a tourist destination, potentially revitalising the local economy and job market.
While Britannia Hotels currently hold the freehold of the site, Denbighshire County Council leases the land to the company. Efforts to reach both parties for further comments and updates on the future plans for the former Pontins site are ongoing. The uncertainty surrounding the fate of the once vibrant holiday park in Prestatyn has drawn attention to the importance of revitalising such properties to benefit the local community and economy. As discussions continue about the potential redevelopment of the site, residents and officials alike are hopeful for a positive outcome that will breathe new life into this iconic location.