After the formal business of our Annual General Meeting in February, our committee member, Professor Robert Owen, asked for 10 minutes to address those present. He told the meeting of the existence and purpose of the Robert Owen House – a building in the grounds of Broad Green Hospital in Liverpool. It offers accommodation to relatives of patients who are in the hospital undergoing specialist treatment for serious and worrying heart, lung and thoracic conditions.

“ A safe – haven in times of need “ perfectly describes the house which is situated alongside the Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital  whose patients come from North Wales, Cheshire, Lancashire and as far afield as the Isle of Man. It is funded by public donations only , offers support and comfort  to all patient’s relatives who stay  in time of need, and  has  seventeen bedrooms – all ensuite .It is only when one comes to need and use the facilities on offer that their true value is realized. Everyone hopes that life does not present them with a need to use the Robert Owen House and all it offers, but it is comforting to know of it’s presence. One of our members present at the meeting, Dorothy Lowe,  was so impressed by what she heard that she immediately embarked on a number of fund-raising events , of which a Garden Fete was the most ambitious.Our President , Graham Roberts, kindly agreed to let his home  and gardens in Rhos-on-Sea be the venue for the event which was planned for Saturday 30th June. Features of the Fete were a 24 piece Brass Band, a jewellery stall, a book stall, a large raffle with  really worthwhile prizes along with an excellent high-class afternoon tea. A splendid watercolor of  Caernarvon Castle by local artist Mary Meadows was the prize for a separate raffle and Dorothy Lowe placed up a prize  for auction  of a first class evening meal for six, cooked by herself in her own attractive home.

Everyone involved were really hoping for good weather when the day finally arrived , but, as it turned out, the rain and gusty winds proved to be the biggest enemy – nationally this June has been the wettest one on record ! However, fortunately the rain stayed away between the start at 2.00pm and 3.30pm, allowing well over 100 people to enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea in the very pleasant gardens whilst listening to the  Beulah Brass Band playing in the background to complete the scene. When it was time to draw the winning tickets for the numerous raffle and other prizes , the heavens opened and our President and other officials got a thorough soaking whilst handing out the prizes. Professor Owen – the retired orthopaedic surgeon who initiated the creation of Robert Owen House – who had spent the afternoon ‘circulating’, was brave enough to stand out in the pouring rain to thank all those involved in the Garden Fete for their time, enthusiasm and hard work in organising what proved to be a very successful, enjoyable and worthwhile fund-raising event.

My first task is to report that our 2012 annual general meeting was recently held at the Rhos on Sea Cricket Club. I have pleasure in attaching a copy of our chairmans annual report for the preceding 12 months and to record thanks for his valuable work. 2012 Chairman’s Annual Report

First of all, praise , seldom offered, to various councillors. – I applaud their stance in fighting Conwy County Council’s Local Development Plans. Demands that local councils build thousands of new homes, condemning green spaces  so unnecessarily, need to be fought as strongly as possible. I am pleased to see our councillors are doing just that.

Praise , also, to our Councillors for lodging an appeal to reduce the speed limit on  the stretch of Abergele Road in Old Colwyn which is at present 40 mph ( often ignored by motorists ) and which , to prevent some tragedy happening, should be reduced to 30 mph.

Praise, also, to those who persisted in their request for a Zebra pedestrian crossing to be sited in Penrhyn Avenue close to the shops at the bottom of Church Road, Rhos-on-Sea. It has taken much time and hard work to raise the funds for the crossing which has added much needed safety for the many schoolchildren in the area.

Praise must also go to a local councillor who is encouraging the youngsters in Colwyn Bay to read  by turning her very interesting book shop – Swanlake Bookshop on Hawarden Road – into a Library. With so many ‘high-tech.’attractions these days to those of school – age, reading is well down the list of things to do. I hope her efforts prove to be successful , and her public- spirited offer is taken up by many. Her premises have recently seen the introduction of a magnificent wrought iron Victorian- style verandah, similar to those found elsewhere in town – a most attractive improvement.

We joined forces with Councillors by lodging our objections to closure of the Police Station on Rhiw Road. We felt that to move from there to the Head Quarters on the far side of Eirias Park would leave Colwyn Town centre devoid of a police presence – something that needs to be increased, rather than decreased.

We recently also lodged an objection to plans to introduce Help and Re-habilitation services , to those recovering from drug and alcohol abuse, within a building in Station Road , now occupied by the ‘Judge and Jury’ public house, Whilst we appreciate the need for such services and the help they offer, Station Road – the hub of Colwyn Bay’s retail business –  is not the right location for them. We hope the authorities will turn down the application to develop this property in this manner. It is good to read that , at last , the assorted and very dilapidated properties to be found at the site of what used to be the Colwyn Bay Indoor Market have all been acquired by Conwy County Council. The sooner the whole site is raised to the ground in readiness for development , the better. What is built on this site must be architecturally befitting it’s location and offer attractive retail and office accommodation in this important part of town.

In the New Year the Society’s Executive Committee wrote to all Town and County Councillors suggesting ways in which Rhos-on-Sea could be improved and given a 21st century ‘face-lift ‘.Their reply told us that all our suggestions had already been discussed and that the public was to be asked for it’s opinions on it’s ambitious plans. Plans are now afoot to re-develop Rhos Point – to pedestrianise part of Abbey Road and link the green playing areas on either side and to enlarge Rhos Harbour breakwaters, thus creating a safer and larger harbour with more moorings. We also applaud the suggestion that somewhere along the sea-front , from Rhos Point to Rhos Golf Club, a statue of Prince Madoc, or obelisk, be raised to tell the public of this legendary Welsh figure.

The difficulty, of course, is not so much the forward thinking and inspirational plans , but the raising of funds needed to bring it all to fruition. No longer, it seems, is it the case that projects are funded out of Council Tax , and no longer is it the case that our councillors can find the funds for us. Now , apparently, it is up to the community at large, with the assistance of the County Council, to apply for funds from a large variety of sources.A Community Group has recently been formed – The Rhos-on-Sea Environmental Action Group – and I am pleased to report that two of our Executive Committee are part of the ten strong members of the group – all of whom are keen to apply for funds to make much needed improvements to Rhos-on-Sea.

Incidentally , I was invited to a short tour of Rhos by a gentleman who represents the disabled in the area and those who find themselves confined to a wheelchair or ’mobile scooter’.  He pointed out to me dangers and hazards these people are faced with whilst going about their daily lives in what we regard as a pleasant , attractive and caring village. A carer pushing a wheelchair, or an individual trying to make progress on his own, will always find difficulty in travelling from the Aberhod buildings, past the Cayley Arms to the bottom of Rhos Road. Also, trying to go from the Natwest Bank on the corner of Colwyn Avenue down past the shops, Nino’s Café and round the corner to the Post Office is even more difficult. One has to negotiate verandah pillars, café tables and chairs, newspaper stands, rainwater gullies, flower boxes protruding from safety railings and , of course, again in the summer, many, many pedestrians, pushchairs, children and dogs.

At the junction of Penrhyn Avenue and the Promenade there is too much space allowed to traffic ,making it hazardous for wheelchairs to cross from Forte’s Café to the Post Office. Traffic turning into Penrhyn Avenue from the Promenade often does so at speeds dangerous to those caught half way across. If Rhos-on-Sea , in time, is to have huge amounts of money spent on it’s re-development, then the needs of it’s disabled must be met at the same time.

It is good to read in the local press that Llandudno is to undergo a £5 million station restoration. Any seaside town  relying on tourism and visitors needs a station which is attractive – it is the ‘doorway’ to the town. Colwyn Bay’s ‘doorway’ is dismal, dreary. miserable and unwelcoming. The bridge over the tracks from one platform to the other is a disgrace. The whole station, it’s approach from Princes Drive and Station Road, the taxi ranks and parking facilities all convey an uncaring atmosphere of being run-down and neglected.  This Society will continue to push for the authorities to apply for funding , and to treat the whole station area as an urgent aspect of the town’s modernisation and redevelopment.

Dan’s Den ( a charity which deserves the support of all in our community ) – what good news to read that, after over ten years since the tragic death of Daniel Cleverly , the shoddy public toilets  close to the skate park in Eirias Park are soon to be transformed into a café complex, somewhere for youngsters to go, meet up and enjoy when the weather is bad. All praise to the councillors involved and the officials of the charity , for their determination to do something for our youngsters in remembrance of a tragic loss of a young life.

2012 – the centenary of the sinking of the ‘ unsinkable’ Titanic. One of the ship’s  officers , Mr Harold Lowe, showed great courage during this disaster by taking charge of one of the too few  lifeboats and taking on board from the icy waters drowning passengers onto an already packed lifeboat. Harold survived the ordeal and , after a long naval career in which he reached the rank of commander  he eventually died at the age of 61. He is buried in the church yard of Llandrillo -yn -Rhos Parish church in Rhos-on-Sea. In recognition of the centenary, the Civic Society has arranged for all the lettering on Harold Lowe’s grave-stone to be restored to their original condition. A special church service has been arranged at St. Trillo’s Church at 11.00 am on Sunday April 22nd. The service will be held by Rev. D.T. Morgan who is the chaplain to the Mission to Seafarers.  Harold Lowe lived for a short time at the property ‘Bryn Mostyn’ which is on the corner of Mostyn Road and Conway Road opposite Queens Gardens. It would be good if the authorities recognised the act by placing a plaque on this building for all to see.

The Society is saddened to have to record the death of a former founder member , Mr John Lee. The Society was founded in 1972 when the construction of the A55 Expressway through the heart of Colwyn Bay raised grave concerns. The Town is still trying to re-build itself forty years later. John held the position of President of the Society for many years, was tireless in putting the aims and objects of the Society before the authorities and was held in very high regard by his many friends, colleagues and associates. John  maintained his interest to  the end , at the age of 91 , despite suffering severe visual , hearing and health problems.

Finally, our members enjoy a monthly meeting with a hearty meal and an interesting speaker – why not join us .

QUERIES AND CONCERNS.

Rhos-on-Sea – It has been good to see that the railings along the sea front have had a ‘lick’ of paint. However, walking towards Colwyn Bay, by the time one has reached the kiosk by the Cayley embankment, the new paintwork stops and the uprights of the railings seem to have had no treatment what-so-ever !
Well done to the business people of Rhos-on-Sea . Their craft displays each Tuesday through the summer added colour and interest to what is already a charming and attractive shopping and tourist area. The weather many Tuesdays was not on their side – but they were not to be put off – even a local brass band brought music to the streets. I hope it has been found to be all worthwhile for them.
It was good to see the children making full use of the paddling pool and other attractions at Rhos Point and ,thankfully, the toilets stayed open – this is a must, they must always be available and improved to ensure our children and visitors are never offered run-down, unhealthy attractions and facilities. The improvement of the sand beach in this area was appreciated by many. I was upset to read in the local press that some amongst us could not resist damaging some of the newly planted fruit trees on land behind the Rhos Fynach Tavern. However, a look round on Sunday September 4th gave me heart – the damage was not as bad as expected and, given time, nature will repair herself.

Rhos Point – such a valuable site , – During the summer private enterprise has kept the site active, with fishing trips and all connected with fishing on offer, also kayaks for sale or hire. Alongside is the sorry site of the Rhos Bistro building – is it undergoing partial demolition and what is the future for this building ? The site, as a whole , has tremendous potential. The Weekly News of July suggested that Councillors for Rhos were arguing over Rhos Point’s development . The last paragraph of the article told us that Conwy County Council had agreed that officers meet local members to discuss Rhos. An improved harbour and floating jetty would help improve matters for those who enjoy the sea and fishing . But, Rhos Point is the focal point and our councillors should put their heads together to plan ways of making the most of this valuable and vital asset.. Perhaps Councillors Parry and Thomas could address the Civic Society on the progress they have made so far on this important matter.
Pumping Station, Church Road. – In July the Weekly News offered the public a chance to win £1000. Developers Macbryde Homes offered this sum to the winner of a competition suggesting the best use of the pumping station. Their original plan to convert to offices had not received much interest. Suggestions for a restaurant, gym, an adventure play-centre or community centre have already been considered. If looking at this Grade 2 listed example of Edwardian architecture with a view to entering the competition it is difficult. The building is surrounded by eight foot high fencing and hoardings. I would suggest to Messrs Macbryde that the site be opened up , with a representative present for a short period ,to allow interested competitors to look round and examine the facilities and possibilities .

The Aberhod Old Hall, Rhos Promenade. – The owners of this Restaurant made head-line news by declaring that plans had been lodged to convert the building , dating back to the 1780’s, into three homes and add three additional properties to the site. The Restaurant has been popular for many years and I am reluctant to see the authorities approve a " change of use " – and in addition attempt to put too many buildings on this site ,which carries so much heritage, and is in such a prominent position.

Colwyn Bay Pier – The saga continues unabated ! The Colwyn Bay Civic Society is being pressed to issue a statement on it’s stance concerning the pier. In April all members were asked to complete a simple questionnaire sent to them. – "Should Colwyn Bay Pier remain " Yes or No. "
Of 167 members there were 86 replies.
Result :-. Yes – 18. No – 68 No reply – 81
This supported the view of the President that the pier should be demolished. Some Executive committee members thought the alternative had not yet been fully and thoroughly assessed and we should await results of current investigations. Writing this in early September I am prompted to make the following observations :-
The pier – what a mess ! – both legally and physically. ( and it’s ownership – that’s questionable too )
The Trustees have abandoned it as an asset- after three years in their possession.
The owner ? Mr Hunt ? He still keeps claiming he has invested £1million in the pier and intends to get that back (fat chance !)
The owner ? The Crown Estates ? According to the Pioneer of August 31st Conwy County Council solicitors have been given permission to negotiate a purchase of the pier. I have just one question – "Who holds the deeds ?" I would suggest the pier be bought for a nominal sum, knowing that huge sums of money are needed either to Repair or Demolish it. Then send a referendum to all Council tax payers, domestic and business, to ask , as the Civic Society did, Yea or Nay ?

Post Office building, Princes Drive. – The Weekly News reported on July 7th that this proud and magnificent building ( sadly greatly underused ) may be vacated. A feasibility study is to go ahead to determine whether or not to close the Colwyn Bay sorting office and parcel collection point and merge with the Llandudno office for economic reasons. This would leave the building vacant and there are rumours that a quality developer is waiting for this to happen. With Colwyn Bay being the subject of much redevelopment, perhaps giving this fine building another ‘raison d’etre’ would not be a bad thing. It would certainly be sad to see it empty and un-cared for, as has become the case of the old indoor Market and the Imperial Hotel – both prime sites ,becoming very unsightly aspects of our town and close to the recently expensively refurbished Station Road and Penrhyn Road.

On the other hand – as I write these notes one cannot help a feeling of excitement and anticipation as projects in Eirias Park and on the sea front are making such progress and also the refurbished Theatre Colwyn will soon be up and running, – 2012 will be an interesting year in the town.

Finally, – words of thanks and appreciation to the County Parks and Gardens Department along with the many businesses who brought success , yet again, to the Wales in Bloom Competitions. – Queens Gardens in particular is always a pleasure to behold and is one of our area’s gardens to receive the prestigious Green Flag Award.

Remember that the Colwyn Bay Civic Society has all aspects of Colwyn Bay and it’s surrounding districts at heart and we are always happy to hear your views – Let us have them.

Jim.