May 06, 2025 - 786 views
Members from the local community along with shops, businesses and town planning experts all gathered at Stadiwm CSM last week to have a big conversation about Colwyn Bay.
The Colwyn Bay Conversation event, as part of the Place Plan project, gathered stakeholders and community representatives to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the town and the surrounding areas.
Experts and stakeholders worked together throughout the day to explore ideas for revitalising the town's high street and public spaces.
Discussions also focused on redevelopment plans for Bay View Shopping Centre and tackling antisocial behaviour.
Delegates took part in interactive sessions, mapping exercises and collaborative discussions – all of which will now be fed directly into the Colwyn Place Plan Action Plan, where relevant working groups will consider and take forward key themes.
David Masding, Chair of the Place Plan Advisory Committee said: “Colwyn Bay faces significant challenges, but it also holds incredible potential. This event was about creating the space for honest conversations, fresh thinking, and practical ideas to move us forward.
“It’s fantastic to see an event of this calibre brought to the town, and we’re hugely grateful to Bay of Colwyn Town Council for their leadership – from securing an outstanding line-up of speakers to making sure these vital discussions could take place.”
Debbie Giacomet Member of Colwyn Bay Business Forum and owner of De Brett Fires who attended the event, shared: "It was encouraging to see so many people committed to Colwyn Bay’s future. The energy in the room showed there’s a strong will to make things better."
The Town Council is clear that close collaboration with key stakeholders – including Conwy County Borough Council, local businesses, residents, and regional partners – will be vital to turning ideas into action and making sustainable, visible improvements in Colwyn Bay.
Cllr Hannah Fleet “It was great to see so many key partners, stakeholders and community voices all in one room, united by a shared commitment to the future of Colwyn Bay. A huge thank you to our excellent speakers, engaged attendees, and especially the Town Council staff whose hard work brought this event together.
“The real challenge begins now – looking ahead, we must acknowledge that traditional retail models are shifting across the UK. Town centres need to evolve, and that means thinking differently. Success lies in offering a more unique, authentic experience – one that’s rooted in our local businesses and reflects the character and creativity of our community.”
To find out more about the Colwyn Place Plan and how to get involved, visit www.colwynplaceplan.com.
