A fresh team and new action groups aim to keep momentum going after major public engagement campaign
A REFRESHED and dynamic board has been unveiled to lead the next phase of Rhyl’s £20 million, 10-year regeneration programme, following a year of intensive work and unprecedented public engagement.
Developed in partnership with the UK Government through the Pride in Place programme, the Our Rhyl / Ein Rhyl plan has now been conditionally approved—a key milestone which will move the seaside town into its next stage of development and consultation.
The approval means the newly appointed board will build on the foundations already laid, helping to further shape and define what the regeneration plan will deliver for Rhyl.
New board members bring a wide range of experience from across the community and voluntary sectors. They include Justin Bell (Community/Tourism), Julie Pierce (Community/Third Sector), Leonie Wainwright (Community/Regeneration), Linzi Jones (Community/DVSC), Emma Watling (Community/Health), and Jonathan Pico (Community/Faith). They will also be joined by Simon Keeting, representing community policing.
The refreshed board signals a renewed push to keep the project moving forward and increase opportunities for residents to take part. Alongside the board, themed Action Groups will be established, giving residents, businesses and organisations practical ways to help turn ideas into reality.
Chair of the Our Rhyl Board Craig Sparrow said the past year of engagement had been vital in shaping the plan.
“The response from the community over the past year has been incredible,” he said. “We’ve heard from thousands of people in so many different ways, and that’s what gives this plan its strength.
“As we move forward, the refreshed Board brings new energy and fresh perspectives, but our focus stays the same – listening and working alongside the people of Rhyl. We want even more people to get involved and shape what comes next.”
Over the last 12 months, engagement events have taken place across the town, from the promenade and high street to Queen’s Market, the library and the Women’s Centre. Consultation has included workshops, surveys, pop-up events and direct conversations with residents.
A summer survey alone received more than 550 responses, with nearly four in five participants living or working in Rhyl. Business workshops also ensured local employers had their say, while youth and third-sector involvement has been described as wide-reaching.
Online engagement has grown rapidly, with Our Rhyl / Ein Rhyl now building a digital community of more than 2,000 followers. TikTok content has generated more than 220,000 views, with over 5,000 likes, more than 400 comments and nearly 1,000 shares, alongside strong interaction across LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook groups.
Young people have played a significant role in shaping the plans. Denbighshire Youth Service has engaged with more than 300 young people through street-based sessions, focus groups and a 10-episode podcast series.
Meanwhile, Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council gathered feedback from more than 40 organisations, highlighting priorities such as tackling poverty, reducing isolation, improving mental health and creating more opportunities for young people.
The findings support wider research, including a 2025 resident survey and Rhyl’s placemaking plan, which together captured views from more than 2,500 local voices, reinforcing key priorities including high street renewal and more activities for children and young people.
Craig Sparrow added: “We’ve reached an important point, but this is really about what happens next. The level of engagement so far shows just how much people care about Rhyl’s future.
“With the new Board and Action Groups to follow, we’re opening things up even further. In alignment with UK Government, we want to build on this momentum and make sure local people are shaping the plan every step of the way.”
More information is available by following Our Rhyl / Ein Rhyl on social media or visiting the project website, Our Rhyl – A New Future for Rhyl.
