Public consultation on the future of Dolgarrog Aluminium

Dec 11 2008 by Samantha Castle, North Wales Weekly News

Dolgarrog Aluminium

VOLUNTEERS are being asked to play a key part in the future of the now defunct Dolgarrog Aluminium factory site.

New owner Ainscough-Johnston acquired the 40-acre site in July following the closure of the aluminium factory. The Wigan-based strategic land company is now in the process of seeking suggestions from the community in a bid to help transform the site into a multi-million pound leisure facility.

Managing director Nigel McGurk invited the Weekly News to have a look around the factory. He said: “This is a long-term investment for Ainscough-Johnston and we intend to lead a regeneration project that is sustainable, unique and creates new opportunities for the people of Dolgarrog.

“We are committed to working closely with anyone with a genuine interest in the successful regeneration of the village. Prior to our purchase of the site, the Welsh Assembly and Conwy County Council formed a Dolgarrog Local Action Group. We have been working with the Assembly and the council to turn this into a much more community-focused group.”

The company is now seeking public volunteers to play an active role in the consultation as community interviewers.

“These volunteers will receive training and assist the consultation team in liaising with the wider community,” added Nigel. “Households, businesses and community groups will be contacted in January through a programme of interviews, questionnaires and workshops, canvassing local opinion on the future of the site.”

Although none of the factory’s original features are being kept, Nigel is very keen on incorporating the old steam engine track back into the site as a possible future tourist attraction for the village.

He added: “It’s all ideas at the moment as nothing has been set in stone and won’t be until we get the action group up and running.”

A new website has been launched at www.dolgarrogregeneration.com giving more information on the consultation.

Volunteers interested in the community interviewer positions can apply by e-mailing info@dolgarrogregeneration.com or calling Alison Kennedy on 01545 571711.