Holywell’s legacy vision backed by major investment

A major UK Government investment is helping to shape a new chapter for Holywell, as more than £1.5 million is poured into the town through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

The funding, awarded as part of Flintshire County Council’s Town Centre Investment Programme, is supporting a series of projects designed to enhance Holywell’s public spaces, promote economic growth and improve community wellbeing.

So far, the funding has backed a wide range of initiatives, including three new festivals – Cadi Ha, the Well Inn, and the Holywell Food and Drink Festival.

The latter, held for the first time this year, drew more than 250 visitors and is now expected to become an annual fixture.

The investment has also supported work on Holywell’s Gateway Project, with Tower Gardens undergoing a transformation through more than a dozen activity sessions involving local schoolchildren, residents and businesses.

Two green spaces are being redeveloped with new landscaping, bug habitats and bird boxes, while a mural featuring some of the town’s most recognisable landmarks – from Basingwerk Abbey to St Winefride’s Well – now offers a vibrant welcome to visitors.

A dedicated Covid memorial space has also been created, designed to provide space for both quiet reflection and social connection, commemorating those lost during the pandemic.

Sian Birch, Project Development Officer at Flintshire County Council, said the changes have already brought the community closer together.

“There is a real sense of pride and place as a result of the work undertaken as part of the Town Centre Activities and Events Grant,” she said.

“From people learning new skills to increasing footfall in Holywell, it has been wonderful to see the community unite.”

Holywell has also benefited from other schemes under the UKSPF programme. These include:

• Town Centre Property Improvement Grant: Transforming the former Chatwins building into retail space with holiday accommodation.

• Feasibility Studies: Exploring a community hub to tackle anti-social behaviour and a Greenfield Visionary Study to connect surrounding land.

• Investment in schools: Tree planting initiatives in one or more local schools.

• Markets: A new officer role focused on promoting and enhancing Holywell’s market offering.

• Place Making Strategy: Outlining the vision and priorities for future regeneration in the town.

• Business Support: Eight local businesses are undergoing a development programme to support growth and sustainability.

Martin Fearnley, deputy town clerk at Holywell Town Council, welcomed the changes.

“It has been fantastic to see the developments being made in Holywell, and the boost that it has had on the community. There is a vibrancy around the town and long may it continue.”

Councillor Chris Dolphin, cabinet member for economy, environment and climate at Flintshire County Council, added: “Holywell is an important pillar of the county, so to see the rejuvenation taking place is incredibly pleasing. The changes made have been eye-catching to say the least, and it’s great that improvements continue to be made.”

The programme is ongoing, with further developments expected to build on this momentum and deliver long-term benefits for the town and its residents.