Clwyd St Revival

Once again, it appears that in the face of a recession Rhuthun is defying logic. At a time when the future of Clwyd Street is looking increasingly fragile come some startling developments.

The most remarkable news is that the former long-standing empty shop unit once occupied by Manweb has been sold (or, rather, it's sale agreed). It’s as yet unclear who’s purchased it and what use will be made of it. Apart from displays and occasion charity type uses, the shop’s been vacant since Manweb pulled out of retailing way back in 1996. Then, Manweb was selling small domestic appliances. Its former manager eventually opening First House stationers on Well Street.

The vacant premises formerly Sun Tân next to Manweb have are now let but, again, there’s no firm word as to who will take it over. Beauty salon Sun Tân closed in early March.

And the closure this month of Doodles doesn’t mean an end to paint your own pottery, either. It’s widely reported in Rhuthun that the pottery café will be taken over by a business also devoted to offering a similar service, making use of the kilns already on the premises.

Perhaps less positive news from Clwyd Street is that fashion boutique 7-Twenty is for sale as a going concern. This creates uncertainly as there’s always a risk that it won’t sell and will close, though naturally this is mere speculation.

Leaving this cluster of traders for premises towards the foot of Clwyd Street, we see that The Key Shop locksmith has recently opened. In fact, this is a trader who has transferred from the very back of beyond on an out-of-the-way unit at Lôn Parcwr industrial estate to a town centre location. Notice the logo on the shop's fascia, cleverly reusing the device once of the former estate agent occupant, Key Properties.

There’ve been comments on this site from people who wish to see ‘bread & butter’ type shops opening in town. Well, here we have one such. And let’s hope it’s well supported.