Holywell: Talacre Arms redevelopment recommended for approval

Plans to convert the former Talacre Arms pub in Holywell into housing will be debated by Flintshire County Council’s Planning Committee on 18 December, with officers recommending the scheme for approval.

The proposal seeks to transform the vacant three-storey building into four self-contained, two-bedroom apartments while constructing five new two-bedroom terraced houses on the site’s former car park.

The application, submitted by Steven Sumner, includes provisions to retain the building’s historic character while adding much-needed housing to Holywell,

The Talacre Arms, though not listed, is located in the Holywell Conservation Area and occupies a prominent position on New Road.

The Council’s Conservation Officer has expressed support for the project, which retains the pub’s original façade and ensures new homes complement the surrounding architecture.

“The Talacre Arms makes a significant contribution to the streetscape of Holywell,” the officer’s report stated, noting that the new terraced houses are designed to respect the area’s historic character.

The pub, which ceased trading in 2019, has been vacant for several years.

Previous proposals to demolish the building were rejected in 2021, with the council highlighting its importance to the area’s heritage.

As part of the project, ecological measures have been included to address concerns raised in earlier applications.

A bat mitigation building will be constructed to support a small population of lesser horseshoe bats identified on-site, while bird boxes and improved landscaping will enhance biodiversity.

Access to the site will be via the existing entrance on New Road, which will be widened to accommodate two-way traffic.

A total of 17 parking spaces are proposed for residents. Highways officers have raised no objections, subject to conditions on access and visibility.

The officer’s report states: “The provision of five new build properties to the side of the side has been carefully designed to ensure that they complement the buildings in the vicinity, including the row of terrace dwellings at Castle View and are set back from New Road to ensure that both the prominence of the Talacre Arms and the setting of the adjacent Grade II Listed statue of Christ are not affected.”

The application has drawn mixed responses from the community.

Nine objections were submitted, raising issues such as habitat destruction, construction disruption, and privacy concerns for neighbouring properties.

Holywell Town Council has expressed support, provided the site access meets safety standards.

Planning officers have recommended approval, noting the scheme’s alignment with local development policies.

The proposal includes a contribution of £8,432 towards improvements at the nearby Bryn Mawr Play Area in lieu of on-site play facilities.