Residents want clarity over Llanrwst Tesco discussions

Nov 18 2010 by Samantha Castle, North Wales Weekly News

Llanrwst

LLANRWST Town Council has requested a meeting with developers to discuss the possibility of a Tesco store coming to the town following meetings with county councillors.

According to Llanrwst Council’s meeting agendas and minutes, the “possibility” has been in discussion since June.

The council has been in contact with Conwy County Council officers Geraint Edwards and Bleddyn Evans regarding the possibility of a Tesco store, and regarding the relocation of the library, police station and ambulance station to create a new business space.

A private meeting is being planned between the county council, developers and Llanrwst Town Council in January 2011, at which the press and public will be excluded.

Town mayor Christine Humphreys has previously voiced her concerns: “I’ve heard that a Tesco store could be located on Conwy Council land at Plas yn Dre, that the library, police and ambulance stations would be moved to the Dolanog site, and that land has already been bought near Meadow Vale Garage for a council recycling depot as part of the deal with Tesco.”

She added recently: “As a town council we want to be kept in the loop with local developments and to be as transparent as possible with the people of Llanrwst.”

But local people feel they are being kept in the dark. One resident said: “If the rumours are true then we are getting a Tesco store, whether we like it or not.

“My main objection is its location. If it is built on Plas yn Dre car park it will block Riverside Walk – a main tourist attraction for the town.

“The town council should be keeping the community informed as it is well aware of the interest in this matter.

“It is to be hoped it is not going to join the ‘let’s keep this secret’ bandwagon.”

Bleddyn Evans, Conwy’s valuer and asset manager, said: “We have been approached by a developer and, as with any such approach, we are in discussion.

“Nonetheless, any formal proposals would need to go through the authority’s cabinet for consideration, and prior to any development taking place, the necessary planning and statutory approvals would be needed, which require consultation within the community.”

A Tesco spokesperson said: “We have ambitions to expand our presence in North Wales and are often considering new sites, as well as talking to different developers.

“However, there are no plans for a Tesco store in Llanrwst in the foreseeable future.”

samantha.castle