I view the proliferation of ugly scaffolding throughout Rhuthun/Ruthin as very much a positive thing. It may not be very nice on the eyes, it may resemble a builder's yard but it indicates optimism in the face of our soon-to-be double dip recession. Scaffolding can currently be found outside:
- The former Slater's car showroom, as evidence of a much-needed investment in the plot vacant for over three years. It's a slow process, the transformation from scrub-ridden dereliction to décor showrooms, perhaps lengthier than everyone anticipated. This will be Rhuthun's worst eyesore cured. The roof at the rear is almost complete and there's work under cover on the Well Street flank.
- Capel Bathafarn's attractive front is smothered in scaffolding. It'll look good for the Open Doors Heritage Weekend in 2½ weeks' time, then, assuming it's still there. Omelettes and eggs, I guess.
- There's a property almost opposite in Market Street, also with scaffolding across its frontage.
- The main cause for optimism is the installation of scaffolding on the Market Street side of the Castle Hotel. This much-anticipated renovation started on Tuesday. The shutters are off on the downstairs windows fronting the Square and there's even lights on inside (even though there's no one really at home… till the January 2012 opening).