A COUNCIL has said it is working to preserve parts of the old Queen's development amidst the "extreme damage" it has suffered over the years.

Denbighshire County Council said most of the Queen’s buildings in Rhyl are "beyond economic repair" due to a lack of maintenance by the previous owners.

The council began demolition works with contractor Wye Valley on January 25 as part of plans to redevelop the site it by the summer.

It said plans are in place to save "as many items as possible" during the refurbishment, including conserving sections of ceilings in the Theatre and Queen’s Market.

A complete section of the balustrade from the mezzanine is also expected to be preserved, as well as a section from the Queen’s Market's former ballroom sprung floor.

Cllr Hugh Evans, leader of Denbighshire County Council and lead member for the economy, said: “After thorough inspections and due to extreme damage we have had to start demolishing all of the Queen’s Buildings apart from the Queens Chambers on Sussex Street.

“We are working with contractors to save the few historical items that remain in the buildings, however since taking ownership it has become clear that most items are beyond repair.

“We respect the history of the Queen’s Buildings and we will continue to retain as much of the buildings as we can throughout the development of this key catalyst project within the wider Rhyl Regeneration programme.

"The buildings play a vital part in benefitting the economy throughout Denbighshire and I am glad the works allow it to continue as part of Rhyl’s future.”