Wrexham Council begin demolition of old Vicarage in Rhosddu

Demolition of the old Vicarage in Rhosddu is underway despite efforts from members of the public and councillors to safeguard the future of the building.

The building, also known as Centre 67, has been mothballed for several years – despite assurances in 2013 from Wrexham Council that it was “not the intention to keep the building in this state permanently.”

It was last used in around 2005 and there were hopes that it could be be turned into a community hub.

Despite efforts from opposition councillors and members of the public to halt the demolition – which was branded ‘civic vandalism’ – leader of Wrexham Council reiterated in November that the site would be used to make way for social housing.

Works to take down the building have now begun, with the roof, upper floors and the front wall now removed.

Below is an image from a month ago:

Below is the view this afternoon as the majority of the building has been demolished.

Previously Cllr Mark Pritchard, Lead Member for Assets, said: “The preference is for a new-build social housing scheme. This would be similar to the fantastic work we’ve done at Nant Silyn and Hightown in recent years, where we’ve been able to build smart, modern homes for the people of Wrexham.

“However, to move forward with this aspiration, we need to clear key parts of the site, including the area of land occupied by Centre 67.

“So being able to demolish the disused building is an important step forward.”

Cllr David A Bithell told us last month, “For clarity we are planning to clear the whole site to build new Council homes which are much needed in Wrexham as the waiting list is over 4,000.

“This has been supported at the Executive Board and Full Council.”

Cllr Bithell added, “Officers are currently looking at the whole site and when this work is complete we will present the business case and consult with the local member.”