End of the World?

Speaking exactly a year ago, Rhuthun/Ruthin’s mayor went on record as stating that the retail development due at Lon Parcwr would not be the end of the world for existing traders.

We’re not sure whether he could say that, with confidence.

Rhuthun/Ruthin traders have protested about the sale of land, after businesses learnt Tesco was a potential interested party, claiming the development could damage their businesses in the town where a number of shops have already closed.

Traders preferred the site as either a car park or one for affordable housing.

Said the mayor, “We don’t know whether it is going to be Tesco. I think it might be one retail unit of some sort or other. In the long term, if we have some sort of retail unit down there, it might take a year or two, but without doubt it will benefit the town.”

Without doubt?

A new Tesco store recently opened in Abergele, bringing more business into the town, and the mayor suggested this knock-on effect could take place in Ruthin.

However, anecdotal evidence in Abergele suggests that some businesses have already closed.

“Whoever comes, we need to work with them. Some of these larger companies will put money into the community.” Will Tesco?