The tourism sector in North Wales has endured a roller-coaster ride over the last few years - from lockdowns to booming summers. It has then been affected by the cost of living crisis while visitor bosses have accused Welsh Government of being "anti-tourist" with its crackdown on second homes and a proposed tourism tax.
But the most popular resort in the region, Llandudno, has shown its resilience and also moved from being "just a resort" - bringing in other employment and also maintaining a strong retail sector despite the many headwinds. It has seen brands like Loungers open there with enormous success while Boots Hearingcare moved their training academy from England to the town centre.
There are more positives going forward. LVL 5 Gyms are opening up in units next to the new Premier Inn - taking up space that had been empty since the Tudno Castle redevelopment was completed.
![Sion Pritchard and Rich Blake, directors of LVL5 Gyms Ltd](https://i2-prod.dailypost.co.uk/incoming/article26776354.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_Sion-Pritchard-and-Rich-Blake-directors-of-LVL5-Gyms-Ltd.jpg)
Within the hospitality sector, a number of hotels have changed hands in recent months - showing positive investor interest in the town, with new owners often bringing ideas and financial resource.
Tesco will move into the old Poundland store in the spring after the discount brand relocated to bigger premises at the former M&S satellite unit, which had again been empty for a number of years.
In addition the large old Marks and Spencer site - left empty after M&S moved to Parc Llandudno - has been bought by Mostyn Estates who want to open a food and leisure facility. Other additions to Llandudno will include a new commercial art gallery and newbuild KIA car showroom.
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There are smaller expansions as well like the The Lavender Room Beauty Salon moving to bigger premises on Vaughan Street. There have also been successful events like the Christmas Extravaganza and a scooter rally as well as a new group aiming at enhancing Mostyn Street, and a Gold in the Britain in Bloom awards.
Llandudno landowner Mostyn Estates said this is all a reminder that "Llandudno is far more than just a seasonal, seaside resort".
Edward Hiller, managing director of Mostyn Estates, said: "I am optimistic that the town has the right ingredients to perform well. Llandudno has the landscape, skills, access to capital for projects; and most importantly, an attitude that is ‘can do’. This should be celebrated."
On the plans for the old M&S store, Jon Merrick from Mostyn Estates said: "This is an exciting contemporary scheme, providing a year-round leisure complex. The project has broad support and has been needed for many years. It’s the type of facility that is expected in a quality resort such as Llandudno. We hope to progress it further in the New Year.”
Town and county councillor for Llandudno Louise Emery added: “Llandudno is a vibrant town with continued investment from the private sector. We have a well-curated mix retailers which makes the town a regional shopping destination. There is also tremendous civic pride in Llandudno with many groups working with the Town Council to enhance and look after our town and support year-round events.”
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