Refurbishment plans for ex-steelworks some way off

Organisers of plans for a former Wrexham steelworks to be transformed into a major visitor attraction say they remain some time off.

The update comes despite two planning applications relating to the Brymbo steelworks site having now been approved.

A key part of the development to rejuvenate the building, which will see it become an exhibition space, shop and cafe, has been approved by Wrexham council.

One of the main attractions included in the wider regeneration plans is a fossil forest, which is believed to date back 300 million years.

Separate plans to refurbish and change the use of a former agent’s house and pattern shop to provide further visitor facilities were also backed.

The Brymbo Heritage Trust, which is behind the proposals, secured lottery funding to bring the old ironworks and steelworks back to life after it was closed in 1990.

The fossilised trees were discovered at the site in 2003 during opencast mining and have been awarded special protection due to their national significance.

Nicola Eaton Sawford, the trust's chief executive, said the planning consents were "great news", but several legal matters to be finalised.

“There are still a number of things that need to happen before we can sign the remaining contracts and begin works on site," she said.