PART of Colwyn Bay promenade has closed today as part of a major redevelopment project.

Phase two of the Colwyn Bay Waterfront Project - expected to take a year - will include widening, realigning and raising a section of the existing promenade, improving parking, new landscaping and improving the promenade and facilities between the pier and the eastern end of Cayley Embankment.

The road between the pier and the junction of Marine Road was closed from 6am today (Thursday, August 11) and will remain closed until May next year, with diversions to be signposted and there will also be some restrictions to beach access.

As part of the regeneration, Conwy County Council is commissioning a new catering facility on the promenade and has invited operators to express their interest in an initial five year term for the concession.

Cllr Dave Cowans, chair of the project board and cabinet member for highways environment and sustainability, said: “The regeneration of Colwyn Bay waterfront and the new beach have proven to be an overwhelming success in attracting visitors to the resort.

“As part of our continued infrastructure development we’re about to start the next phase of work moving west from the pier.

“An integral part of the strategy is to provide new business opportunities, and as such we’re commissioning a new-build catering facility on the promenade.

“We’re working closely with the team at Glyndwr University’s Architectural Design, where technology students have provided a building design that reflects the local area’s heritage and complements the high quality finishes of the waterfront promenade.

“We’re now seeking expressions of interest to lease this new facility; locally placed adverts are inviting catering operators to submit their ideas and credentials so that we can offer additional beach side services for visitors to Colwyn Bay’s waterfront.”

Cllr John Davies, mayor of Colwyn Bay, said: “The Bay of Colwyn Town Council applaud the improvements to the promenade but, as mayor, I think the closure of the promenade in August is wrong – why not defer the work until mid-September once the holiday season is over.

“Closure now will deter both holidaymakers and residents alike. I don’t think a few weeks’ delay will be a major problem in the development process. The new catering establishment is to be welcomed and I hope existing kiosk holders will apply.”

North Wales Pioneer readers shared their views on the closure through Facebook.

Zoe Stevens posted: "I know we're not having the best of summers but now when we do get a nice day it will be a nightmare going to the beach. Should of waited till September."

Linda J Lloyd said: "What a totally stupid idea, close the Prom in Summer, well done CCBC."

Lynn Shutt posted: "The sooner it is started the sooner it will be finished. Let's look forward to a better journey along there next year. I will miss it until then."