Former Spectrum Garden Centre in Cefn-Y-Bedd is demolished
The Spectrum Garden Centre in Cefn-Y-Bedd was previously a hit among locals and visitors.
But, having laid derelict for a number of years, the site has recently been branded an 'eyesore' by councillors.
In October 2023, Flintshire Council's planning committee gave the green light to proposals for a mix of flats and houses at the site.
That was for the development of 20 one-bedroom cottage flats, seven three-bedroom houses and three two-bedroom houses.
Not much has happened since, but an updated planning application was posted to Flintshire Council's website just last week.
Before and after (top courtesy of Google Streetview, bottom Newsquest) of Spectrum Garden Centre in 2009 and in present day. (Image: Google Streetview/Newsquest) Dated as approved on June 3, it states that Hughes O'Hanlon Architects are now carrying out work on site.
The site comprises a range of derelict buildings of cement block construction.
The Leader took a trip there last week to find that the old buildings had been demolished.
Current work being carried out, according to the new planning application, involves 'construction phase lighting'.
Wrexham based architectural practice Hughes O'Hanlon were appointed by GK Construction for the delivery of the social residential development for North Wales Housing Association.
According to their website, they state: "Totalling 30no dwellings including one-bed apartments, two and three-bedroom houses the scheme re-purposes the site of the former Spectrum Garden Centre in Cefn Y Bedd, Flintshire.
"Responsible for the technical delivery of the project, we undertook an early compliance check against Welsh Design Quality Requirements and Lifetime Homes standards.
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"A timber-framed, fabric-first approach to sustainable design also includes air source heat pumps, solar photo-voltaic panels and rainwater harvesting.
"Located adjacent to the River Cegidog, particular attention has been paid to the potential for flooding with floor levels set accordingly and with a flood basin provided within the site."
Principal contractor for the project GK Construction Ltd say work could be completed by May of next year.
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