A £12.2 million transformation of a Denbighshire extra care housing complex has officially opened, offering older residents independence and comfort in a vibrant community setting.
The upgraded Llys Awelon scheme in Ruthin, owned and managed by the Grŵp Cynefin housing association, has been expanded from 21 to 56 modern apartments, combining independent living with on-site care and support.
Partly funded with £7.1 million from the Welsh Government and supported by Denbighshire County Council, the three year construction project was built by Read Construction and includes a restaurant, salon, landscaped gardens and communal areas.
The Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies, guest of honour at the official opening, said the development was a “place that truly feels like home”.
“A home is not just bricks and mortar,” she said. “It’s where we feel safe, have comfort and companionship – and that’s exactly what Llys Awelon offers.”
Grŵp Cynefin chair Tim Jones hailed the opening as “the start of a new chapter” for the Ruthin site.
He said: “This project is the result of a strong and meaningful partnership between Grŵp Cynefin, Denbighshire County Council and Welsh Government.
“Read Construction have led the build, and of course many other companies and individuals have played a vital role. This has been a truly collaborative and constructive journey, and we’re proud of what we’ve achieved together.
“We are especially proud and honoured to welcome the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Rhian Bowen-Davies. This endorsement means a great deal to us.”
Resident Cyril Jones shared his pride in calling Llys Awelon Home.
“Care, comfort, companionship and friendship – I have all those here and I have something that we all treasure – we’ve got our independence. We have a key to our front door – privacy, independence, comfort and care,” he said.
“I have little saying, yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift and that’s why we call it the present. Thank you for everybody involved in the present that we are enjoying here in Llys Awelon.”
Councillor Rhys Thomas, Lead Member for Housing and Communities at Denbighshire County Council, said: “It’s a pleasure to be at Llys Awelon today for the official opening of this special building.
“Caring for the needs of our older population is one of the Council’s priorities. Working in partnership with Grŵp Cynefin has enabled us to achieve the goal of creating a modern, comfortable and welcoming building for a community of local residents.”
The Mayor of Ruthin, Cllr Peter Daniels, was also full of praise.
He said: “There is a vibrant community atmosphere at Llys Awelon. It gives older people in Ruthin the best of both worlds, allowing them to enjoy independent living in comfort with comprehensive support if and when it’s necessary.
“There is nothing else in Ruthin quite like it that allows older people to continue to play an active role in society should they wish to.”
The people attending and residents were treated to performance by pupils from Ysgol Pen Barras, Ruthin, which has a close and valued relationship with the Llys Awelon community.
Also present were representatives from local community groups who received grants through the Llys Awelon project, reflecting the wider impact of the scheme.
