Members of the Our Rhyl/Ein Rhyl Neighbourhood Board have joined representatives from communities across the UK at a Pride in Place event in Cardiff, as preparations for the town’s £20 million programme continue ahead of delivery.
The event at Dewi Sant, Cornerstone Cardiff, was a chance to share ideas, discuss best practice and look ahead to the next phase of the 10-year programme.
Chair Craig Sparrow represented the town alongside Board members Julie Pierce and Linzi Jones and Janine Downing, Chief Officer of Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council (DVSC).
Julie Pierce is Chief Executive Officer of Citizens Advice Denbighshire, while Linzi Jones is founder of The Step-Up Hub, a marketing and communications consultant and DVSC trustee.
“It was incredibly useful to meet people from other areas, share ideas and hear about the different approaches being taken,” said Craig Sparrow.
He added: “There was a real sense that Rhyl is in a strong position. A huge amount of work has already taken place, particularly around engaging with our community and listening to what people want to see happen in the town.
“We are continuing to develop and strengthen the plan, and events like this give us the opportunity to learn from others while also sharing some of the positive work taking place here in Rhyl.”
The forum gave areas the opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss progress on delivering long-term plans shaped by the people who live and work in their communities.
For Rhyl, it was also a chance to reflect on progress made following extensive engagement with residents, young people, businesses, organisations and community groups.
The Board is continuing to refine and strengthen its proposals ahead of the next stage, with a focus on ensuring local people remain at the heart of decision-making.
Julie Pierce said: “What came through strongly was the importance of communities being involved in shaping what happens next. We have an opportunity to make a real difference over the coming years, but that has to be driven by the priorities, experiences and ideas of the people of Rhyl.
“There is a lot of positivity and commitment around the programme, and it was encouraging to see that reflected in conversations with other areas in Cardiff.”
Linzi Jones said: “We would also like to thank the Pride in Place team for their continued advice, guidance and support throughout this process.
“The next chapter is about turning all of that engagement and planning into action, working alongside organisations, groups and residents across Rhyl to make sure this investment has a positive and lasting impact.
“This is a 10-year journey, and we want the community to be part of it every step of the way.”
Under the programme, £20 million will be invested in Rhyl over the next decade, with projects and priorities shaped by local needs and the views of the community.
