A former pub will be transformed into a co-working hub for entrepreneurs.

Denbighshire County Council has been awarded funding of £312,000 through the European Regional Development Fund and the Welsh Government to create the office accommodation at the semi-derelict Costigans building on Bodfor Street, Rhyl.

Work started on site on October 21 creating accommodation for around 20 business start-ups in flexible accommodation with space to host events and a coffee shop on site.

Costigans is owned by the Council who refurbished the exterior after buying it following damage caused by a fire.

Cllr Hugh Evans OBE, Leader of Denbighshire County Council, said:

“As part of our work to deliver our vision for Rhyl town centre the building will be converted into modern co-working office accommodation with space for a coffee shop.

“It will provide a creative, flexible working environment with ultra-fast broadband, to support and encourage a new generation of small businesses to set up or to use the town centre as their base.

“We want to create a space where young people can take their first steps as business owners and help the next generation of entrepreneurs get their start. We want to support all young people to achieve their potential and this project supports that work.”

The scheme is being part funded by the Building for the Future programme, which is funded by the Welsh Government and European Regional Development Fund.

Deputy Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hannah Blythyn, said:

“Through our Building for the Future programme we are committed to creating lasting economic change.

“Our funding for regeneration is helping to boost local employment, and tackling economic, social and environmental priorities.

“This iconic old building which has served the community for so long is getting a new lease of life, and I look forward to seeing this centre flourish and grow.

“It will enable local people to come together and act as the social heart of the community and attract a new generation of small businesses to the town centre.”

The Council will be looking for a tenant to take on the building and run the space.

The project forms part of the Vison for Rhyl document which aims to help create opportunities for the local community to shape their town and raise aspirations, bringing new business and footfall into the town centre.