Having launched an online petition in 2023 to save Abergele Youth and Community Centre after Conwy County Council took the decision to close the facility without consulting with the public or those who use it, Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has welcomed news that the building has now been granted a long-term lease.  

In August 2023, the local authority announced that it would not be taking any further bookings from the centre from the end of September, citing heating costs and cost cutting as the reason for the decision.

Darren was informed of the plans by outraged residents and users of the centre and immediately set up a petition in a bid to save the centre. 

He is therefore delighted that Conwy County Borough’s Cabinet have now granted a long-term lease for the building.

He said:  

“I’m delighted to hear this news, this building is an important community asset and part of Abergele’s rich heritage.

“I am grateful to Conwy County Borough Council for listening to local opposition to the closure of the building, and for the Abergele Conservation Trust for coming forward with a plan to rescue the facility.

“The Trust has my continued support; it seeks to bring the building back into use and put it on a sustainable footing going forward.”

Prior to its closure, the centre was used by a number of community groups in the area, including the U3A (University of the Third Age), WI Abergele  (Women's Institute), and Autumn Club.