Derelict properties in one of north Wales' most deprived wards are being demolished as part of a wider scheme to regenerate the area.

Two years ago Rhyl West in Denbighshire was found to be the poorest part of Wales in a report by the Welsh Assembly and local authorities.

This is an important project because it represents the start of a programme to deal with dereliction on the seafront

Mike German, Councillor

Local councillors have now stepped in after complaints were received about the quality of some of the properties in the area..

They have bought five houses on West Parade in partnership with the Welsh Development Agency (WDA).

The site will be landscaped and used as a car park whilst its redevelopment is being discussed.

There are still poor quality properties in the area and councillors and the WDA will be working jointly to pursue further improvements.

Areas of Rhyl have become derelict

Councillor Mike German said the initiative would develop Rhyl West.

"There have been calls for the council to demolish some properties along West Parade and we will be making every effort to purchase other idle properties," he said.

"This is an important project because it represents the start of a programme to deal with dereliction on the seafront."

Funding is available to owners who want to improve their properties.

Money can be granted through the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Town Improvement Grant.

Many householders have taken the opportunity to improve the quality of their homes already.

Improvement

Councillors are keen to see other people joining the scheme.

Denbighshire's corporate director, Iwan Prys-Jones said they are keen to enhance the local environment.

"We are committed to carrying out environmental improvements in the area.

"We are working closely with our partners and property owners along West Parade to push this scheme forward."

The area has been subject to improvement schemes before.

Three months ago, the assembly launched an £82m project called communities first to tackle the financial problem in areas of Wales, including Rhyl West.

The initiative aims to remove decision making powers from bureaucrats and put it into the hands of local residents.

Projects which have already been set up to improve the area, include a drop-in centre, bond bank and credit union.