Site future: Your views

Last updated: 01 June 2009

What now for the hospital site? Well, after much debate and planning wrangles the idea is to turn the hospital into 100 apartments.

your comments

Jane, Colwyn Bay
Look what went on at the Tower of London over its history but nobody suggested pulling it down, it's been kept alive and cared for and makes a fortune because of its past. It's educational. Turn this beautiful building into a meuseum and place of learning and leisure. Give it the respect it deserves and do it in fond memory of those who lived and worked there.
Mon Jun 1 08:41:25 2009

Daisy Price
It's a stupid idea, destroying history like that. People travel from all over the place to see this wonderful building.
Wed Apr 29 08:27:16 2009

Margaret Hainge-Lloyd, Bodelwyddan
That area of Denbigh would never be the same again if they demolished the hospital. I have many happy memories of going to the dances there when I nursed at Llangwyfan chest hospital Denbigh in the 60s. Please don't turn it into an area of little boxes full of posh no dosh outsiders who couldn't care a fig what was there before they arrived. Why not turn it into a prison especially for councillors and planners MPS and AMS and care less owners and greedy big building companies who seem to get planning permission which the rest of us could never get if we lived to 200 years and who want to make a fast buck which leads to a very bad decisions and leave the rest of us to live with their ugly creations.
Tue Apr 21 11:42:11 2009

Clwyd Wynne
I remember Jerry Beegoo as a student in the hospital. If he or anyone else is interested in finding out more about the hospital and perhaps renewing old acquaintances please go to the official site at northwaleshospital.ik.com We would love to hear from you and share memories.
Fri Feb 6 07:57:49 2009

Sally Baxtersturmey from Wiltshire
Having seen this place on the Most Haunted I was intrigued by the place and brought a book about the hospital. I think personally that this building should be made into a museum and to show what changes have been in the mental health. This building I have found to be very interesting and would be nice to be able to visit and be able to be shown around and see the different parts of the hospital.
Mon Feb 2 09:02:49 2009

Elizabeth Cartwright
So many of us are involved in thoughts and hopes for the future of the North Wales Hospital now (as proved on this forum alone) that the question has to be asked (perhaps to Nick, webteam) - would BBC Wales be willing to be involved in the campaign to restore and provide a future for the hospital? Yes, I know it's in private hands but due to the current climate and the discovery of lesser horseshoe bats (a highly protected by European law species) postponing demolition, this magnificent building is just being left to wrack and ruin. It has given too much for this horrendously drawn out demise and someone or various someones should be held accountable and a way forward found that doesn't involve the erection of a couple of hundred houses when the climate improves!
Mon Jan 5 09:28:54 2009

J Beegoo (Jerry)
I was trained at North Wales Hospital. I came straight from Mauritius and the high standard of training that I received there from 1968-73 has given me the skills to help thousands of people. I am still working in the health service. I would like to see the building preserved and turned into a big conference centre. It is part of history especially as it is so near to Denbigh Castle. I found the people of Denbigh and surroundings very friendly and great fun to be with.
Mon Jan 5 09:27:55 2009

Andy Jones
The govt should step in if they demolish it, if that's all it's worth after all the good work it has done over the years then Buckingham Palace should go, save the tax payer. If not a hospital again, a hotel making money, adding employment.
Fri Jan 2 09:40:15 2009

Arwel from Congleton
This whole business about the hospital is due to greedy people trying to make money for themselves and putting nowt back into the locality. Exploitation of Denbigh by the get rich quick merchants.
Tue Dec 30 09:40:05 2008

Elizabeth Cartwright
It seems so sad that we all appear to be unable to say we don't want spanking new build 2009 houses that all look exactly the same...we just want our historical buildings to be maintained, restored and given the fighting chance of still being the imposing example of a bygone era of building in another 168 years! I can't help thinking that if it had been in England it would be generating some kind of self preserving income, too many of our Welsh buildings seem to be succumbing far too easily to the fat cats. If this message, although rambling, inspires anything in anybody, please visit www.northwaleshospital.co.uk and join in trying to save this magnificent building.
Mon Dec 29 11:13:27 2008

Wil, Wrexham.
For Colin Hughes, Denbigh. Many thanks for the enlightenment. Further relevant info. via this site would be helpful, it's been going since before March 2005 and yours seems to be the first authoritative response. Let's all hope the arsonists, and Wrexham CBC, don't win. Despite all the publicity WCBC has an ulterior motive which isn't shared by the people of Pentre Maelor who would be most affected by the proposed Wrexham location.
Mon Dec 29 10:31:23 2008

Paul Findlow, Manchester
Please save this building. I have explored inside it and it is a really wonderful building. The outside of it clearly shows the real craftsmanship of Victorian building skills. Get the lottery fund to pay for the restoration of this wonderful building, instaed of wasting it on silly rubbish that no one is interested in. Clearly this building has touched so many people's feelings and I think it is a damn shame that demolition is in the plans.
Wed Dec 17 08:13:09 2008

Eryl from Denbigh (living in California)
My parents were nurses at the hospital (my father worked there for more than 40 years) and I also worked during my summer holidays when I was a student. Most families in town had someone who worked at the hospital and the patients (NOT "inmates"!) were treated with care and compassion. Dances for the patients were held every week in the beautiful Main Hall that was just destroyed by fire. The hospital was a self-sustaining community and many patients spent their lives there. It is appalling that the buildings have been allowed to deteriorate and I just hope that the council and other interests can come up with a sensible plan. Building a lot of houses up there would be a mistake (there were already plenty of houses on the market when I was in Denbigh a few weeks ago) and I don't think the town has the infrastructure to support an influx of new people (schools, roads, police etc). The setting lends itself to a country house hotel/museum/country park/retirement home or any combination of those. I would like to see Cadw or the Lottery Fund get involved and let's come up with something innovative, something that will provide employment for Denbigh people and that will protect the beautiful environment around there. It is a jewel and should be treated as such.
Fri Nov 28 10:01:14 2008

Brian Stapley, Brymbo/Wrexham
Is it just me, or are there other people that find the fire at the hospital very odd. I have been looking through a list of building right across the UK, that have, ether caught fire during development or have had some sort of problem with planning, or conservation. Fire is an all consuming element. Just a sort list. Former hotels, seaside, piers, churches, chapels.
Thu Nov 27 14:49:06 2008

Sue from Wrexham
Against my better judgement I watched Most Haunted when it was from Denbigh Hospital. I was disgusted that the "stars" of the show kept referring to the "inmates" that had been kept there...surely these were patients? If as certain people would have us believe that it was a hospital full of caring people.
Thu Nov 27 09:31:44 2008

Colin Hughes from Denbigh
Just for the record - firstly the hospital is in private hands - the Council have never owned it. It was sold by the Health Authority on the instructions of the then Welsh Office. Also Chris Ruane set up the meeting with the Min of Justice because the local Labour Party, including Councillors like me, lobbied him to put the site forward. As Councillor for the ward, I am extremely concerned what happens to the place but ultimately it is mainly in the hands of the owners - there is so much rubbish going around about whose fault it is. I first joined the Town Council because I was so angry at the way the Hospital was sold and the quick bucks made by the first private owner. If you want anything else clarifying, just post a note on here.
Thu Nov 27 09:26:23 2008

Wil, Wrexham
Postscript to Monday's entry. Another question! How many £20s can you stuff into a Swan box and still leave room for, say 5 matches? Had to be 20s, larger denominations too easily traced! Anyway, thanks Chris Ruane, pity some of our other alleged representatives, AMs, MPs, Councillors etc. weren't as concerned as you! Stand by, Denbigh, for an influx of commuters from Merseyside, Manchester and all points north of Chester! Wrexham can tell you all about it.
Wed Nov 26 10:04:45 2008

2081203
What am absolute shame. I worked for the Free Press and had the fortunate experience of going inside this building. Another incident like the Grange in Rhyl I fear. ARSON! People should be ashamed, the locals will truly miss this place.
Tue Nov 25 11:58:15 2008

Ron Williams
I am sure that many Denbigh people will agree with me when I say that today is probably the saddest day in the life of the 'Mental'. To see it go up in flames is heartbreaking. So many people have many happy memories of the place. Both my parents worked there as did many of my uncles and aunts etc. The magic of the Christmas parties we attended as children will live with me forever. R I P The Mental.
Mon Nov 24 10:20:39 2008

Wil, Wrexham.
Same old story, we've heard it all before: listed building allowed to deteriorate, potential demolition stopped by determined, concerned objectors, FIRE! FIRE! FIRE! Listed building beyond redemption, demolition and development goes ahead! Not the developers' fault, of course not. Question, who gave the arsonist the matches?
Mon Nov 24 10:18:29 2008

B Gruffydd
I cannot understand why a listed building which belonged to the government should be allowed to get into this state. Surely it could have been transferred to another department and used as a museum or art gallery to exhibit some of the many items that never see the light of day. What an addition to the tourist industry in the north!
Tue Nov 18 08:43:35 2008

Debbie, Wrexham
What a stunning building, how could they even think of demolishing it. They need to do something with it, anything is better than knocking it down, it is such a breathtaking place! Does anyone know if they have ever had an open day or will be having an open day. I would love to go and have a look, I'm just fascinated by it!
Mon Nov 17 08:03:07 2008

Jodie Williams, North Wales
Save this building, it's amazing...don't let them demolish it. Use it for a prison which will bring jobs to the community. Something needs to be done...
Fri Nov 14 08:14:33 2008

Glen, Rhyl
Save it before Donald Trump gets his hands on it!
Tue Nov 11 08:04:00 2008

Wil, Wrexham
Hooray! The message got through at last! BBC now report a meeting between the site owners and the Ministry of Justice about the possibility of developing the site, including the buildings we all hope, as a North Wales Prison. Thanks to Chris Ruane. Whatever your opinion about exactly what this magnificent building should become, why not support this project. Isn't anything better than deterioration and eventual demolition, which is what it's heading for at present? Come on, folks, we all want the building to survive, and we see a little light at the end of the tunnel, so let's all pull together!
Fri Nov 7 13:26:02 2008

A Redman S.O.T
Just one thing to say, take a long look at this fantastic structure and see it for all its wonder. It's a work of sheer craftmanship and should not be demolished. Why do we always destroy things of great architectural worth? Do we not care about our past history? Why can't things like this magnificant building just be left in peace? Simple enough, but never understood by those who can't see i.e. The powers that be.
Thu Nov 6 08:37:49 2008

Clwyd Wynne
On behalf of the North wales Hospital Historical Society I would like to thank all who have expressed their views about the current state of the building and its possible future use. If you wish to try to help to preserve as much of it as possible please go to our website - northwaleshospital.ik.com - where we have a link to an online petition which has been started to save the building.
Wed Nov 5 14:51:24 2008

Bec
Having worked at the hospital some time ago and having seen the building in its full glory, I definitely think that it is disgusting that the place has been left to fall into such a state! Have we not lost enough of our heritage? I refer to the haunted house on the moors, which years ago was a fantastic hunting lodge. When it was brought to the attention of the wider community, the general consensus was that it was a waste of a fantastic opportunity for us to visit our past and that more should have been done to preserve it for the future generations. My point being did we not learn anything from this? A once magnificent building is being left to fall into rack and ruin and while all may stand around discussing how bad it is maybe someone should actually do something about it. While I do not condone the council for selling the property or for opposing every potential use of the property, in their defence while owned by them it was wardened by security guards and therefore did not suffer so much at the hands of intruders. I feel that locking the history of the building behind bars with criminals would be as equally wasteful as letting it rot. I think a far superior use for the site would be to give it back to the community and build a hotel, leisure complex, a museum as already suggested by someone else like they did with Ruthin jail! Even a theme park! Just imagine the potentional that place has to offer. Definitely one of the best things that Most Haunted has done is to bring Denbigh Mental Asylum to people's attention.
Tue Nov 4 08:22:25 2008

Susan Gregory
This building has outstanding beauty, the surrounding scenery is breathtaking. It would be better if renovated, and maybe used as a wildlife preserve. The building is truly magnificent. When we had asylums people were safe - now we let them wander the streets, sleep in doorways. Restoring this building as a nursing home with today's standards inside would be brilliant and I would think it would made the elderly and young mental health patients live in the beautiful Denbigh countryside.
Tue Nov 4 07:46:56 2008

Susan
This building should be restored as it is so beautiful, we should keep our history, not pull it down. We have lost so many Victorian properties please keep this one. It could be a lovely place for people to visit and anyone would pay to visit.
Mon Nov 3 16:24:52 2008

Justin H.
We need to save this building, it has so much potential. It's a building that Denbigh should be proud of. It cannot be demolished. Please help by clicking on the following link and sign the petition.
petitionspot.com/petitions/savedenbighasylum
There will hopefully be another link soon on the No 10 Downing Street website. Let's try and save the building for Denbigh.
Mon Nov 3 08:20:27 2008

Maria Lindsay, Staffordshire
I went to the Most Haunted Live show on Wednesday and I found the building simply breathtaking as I pulled in the gates. I cannot understand the people who say that filming the show is a bad thing. From what I witnessed and felt (as a non believer in ghosts etc..) was an overwhelming feeling that that building needed some life injecting into it! We sat in the main hall and walked through some corridors and you could feel that this was once a place where people were cared for ....maybe not in the best way as we see it now but at that time it may have been the only way they knew! I had a feeling that a lot of people were there. Just looking up at the windows I expected to see someone ....not a ghost ..... I really can't explain it. The whole place felt like it was asleep but still a working environment and people were busy and happy working there. I know some terrible things must have happened there and hope it's because we didn't know any better and the intention of helping people to recover from an illness was the reasons. This all could have stemmed from what I had read and heard before the visit but I truly believe that Most Haunted has not harmed the place in any way shape or form. I am glad to see former employees and patients have commented on the show. The show just might have saved this breathtaking beautiful building from demolishment as so many people are against it!
Mon Nov 3 08:19:09 2008

Joy McDonough from Birmingham
I was in the asylum on Wednesday for the Most Haunted Live show. What a fabulous building, as for the council wanting to demolish this beautiful building is beyond me. I would love to start a petition. Also, I would contact Most Haunted for their support and I am sure once we have this petition up and running I would hope that we could save this gothic building.
Mon Nov 3 08:17:19 2008

WILL, HITCHIN HERTS
This is just crazy to pull down such an elegant building. I live in Hertfordshire and over the past five to six years the local asylum building (Three Counties Asylum, Stotfold) has been restored and turned into apartments. Also, the surrounding grounds have been built on, but the main building preserved. This was a major project taken on by PJ LIVSEY group to which to give them credit they have brought life into a derelict building. In this day and age these buildings need to be preserved. I, at 33 years of age, can admire the sheer beauty and craftsmanship that went in to create these superb structures. If they have managed to rejuvenate an historic building near me, surely the same principles can apply to other structures! Vandalism does happen - that's life, but the people who cause most destruction only pursue profit.
Mon Nov 3 08:15:58 2008

Robert Samuels, Salisbury, Wiltshire
I attended the site as a audience member 30/10/08, I have now looked into this wonderful building and find the news of its demise disturbing more than what it was used for in the past. Can the Welsh government not take this outstanding bit of Welsh history and make it into something like the National Museum of Wales. Do not let this be banished into the past, we have a uncanny way of dragging every other countries' mess ups up in the news, lets not have Wales appear on the news, and then wishing it had held on to it. ONCE IT HAS GONE, there is no bringing it back.
Mon Nov 3 08:14:12 2008

Kieran Glendon from Whitchurch
I think that the hospital should not be demolished. I am watching it on Most Haunted Live and it is such a lovely building. Someone save it please.
Mon Nov 3 08:12:40 2008

Pauline McCormack
We need to keep a livimg memorial of the 1800s. Such a fine building going to ruin. Let the people of Denbigh decide.
Mon Nov 3 08:12:21 2008

Debbie, Northants
I only became aware of this building because of watching Most Haunted Live. Now I know of it, I am totally appalled that there are plans to demolish it. It's a part of British history and it should be conserved. I too cannot believe that the council would allow it to fall into such a state. It's a disgrace. The thought of this beautiful building being torn down and possibly turned into housing estates beggars belief. Can't we start a petition or something?
Mon Nov 3 08:11:54 2008

Lesley Hall, Cheshire
It would be a terrible shame to knock this beautiful building down, it should be preserved. It would make a wonderful hotel or university. Please, whoever owns this building, listen to the people - do something positive with it. Give something back and don't demolish it.
Mon Nov 3 08:11:16 2008

Callum from Newton, Manchester
I am absolutely appalled and sickened when I watched the recent TV show 'most haunted' to hear that this grand prestigious historic building could possibly be considered for demolition. In my eyes this is proposterous! The people i.e the council who have came up with this idea should be ashamed of themselves. They should respect the history behind this building and instead of creating some eyesore that seem to dominate Britain these days, instead leave one of very few breathtaking buildings like this alone and let it stand in all its glory until natural occurrencies.If I could force my opinion into action about this proposition by the council, then I would not hesitate one bit. I personally would restore this building (yes I know it would cost an awful lot of money, but wouldn't that be worth it to save this prestigious building?) and turn it into a luxurious hotel or manor hall where people could visit and gain knowledge of its extended history of the hospital asylum and the people who were part of it.It's just sickening, absolutely sickening to potentially have to say goodbye to such a architectually beautiful structure.
Mon Nov 3 08:10:51 2008

Dave Manson from North Yorkshire
I was there on Halloween with Most Haunted Live and this truly is an AWESOME building! How on earth it was allowed to get so run down is beyond me. Shame on the council for allowing that and for selling it on! How could anybody even consider levelling this place to build yet more modern eye sores such as flats and shops?! Why not plough the money it would cost for redevelopment into restoration work and using the existing building for something worthwhile that would benefit not only the people of Denbigh but also others who visit the beautiful town.
Mon Nov 3 08:09:06 2008

AJ Bromley, Kent
I saw this building on Most Haunted, this shouldn't be torn down. Why can't it be made into a hotel or something, it's a beautiful place with loads of history. Please save it!
Mon Nov 3 08:07:25 2008

Sue, Wrexham
Just wanted to say that personally, I am pleased that the plans for new homes in Rhostyllen have got the green light from the national trust - despite the negative protestors doing their best to get it scrapped. We are talking about a couple of fields here - that's all. There are more important things than somewhere handy for lazy people to walk their dogs (and not have to clean up the mess) A housing association is involved in this project - so there will be affordable homes. The national trust will ensure that the new part of the village offers a pleasant environment for residents.I beleive that Rhostyllen will be greatly enhanced by this development and I can't see why people are against it.
Mon Nov 3 08:02:08 2008

Brian Jones
This building seriously needs help. A petition needs setting up and getting as many signatures as possible then sending to 10 Downing Street. This building would make an ideal care and rest home for NHS patients and families who can't afford private care especially elderly and vulnerable people it would make a brilliant care home for the elderly. Gordon Brown, I think you need to step in here and save this one instead of spending money on wars and bombs abroad! Shape yourself Mr Brown, try spending money on somewhere like North Wales Hospital complex and doing something good for this country and people instead of abroad!
Mon Nov 3 08:00:31 2008

Gregg, Sheffield
I had not heard of this beautiful building until I saw Most Haunted but now thanks to them this building is now in the public eye. It would be a crying shame if this old fine building was demolished. The history of this grand old hospital is unbelievable. Please don't do away with it. Any petition I would gladly sign. I would also, if it does stay, love to visit if it became a museum showing it as it was.
Mon Nov 3 07:58:35 2008

Liz Lovell
What a great shame that such a wonderful building has been left to rot, it makes me so sad that something that was built to do good for people has been abandoned by people itself. We waste so much money in this country surely it's about time we did something good and restored this beautiful place and its grounds to its original splendour.
Mon Nov 3 07:57:40 2008

Dianne, London (Wales as well)
I think they should re-do inside the hospital and make it look a bit like it was in the olden days. Make it into a museum to let people get a taste of what it looked like. Heritage lottery grants should pay to reastore it to its former glory and handed back to the people of Denbigh.
Fri Oct 31 10:46:16 2008

Babz Masters, Flint
Hi, I'm watching the Most Haunted programme and while people are ranting at what a disgrace this programme is etc etc I think it has done the town of Denbigh a HUGE favour. It has brought it into the spotlight and I am sure that the businesses in Denbigh will welcome the visitors that this programme will attract! I think it is such a shame that the Hospital has been left to fall apart and hopefully now someone will come forward with some ideas as to what to do with it. A themed hotel perhaps with ghost weekends? I'm sure that would prove VERY popular. So people stop moaning and look outside of the box and think about how lucrative this could be for the town of Denbigh!
Fri Oct 31 10:40:58 2008

Melissa C, Rhyl
How can the demolition of this beautiful, grand building even be considered? The council should be ashamed of themselves for allowing the building to fall into such a state. The council should take the opportunity to transform the building into something that will bring a boost to the economy that the area desperately needs.
Fri Oct 31 10:15:47 2008

Dawn, Birmingham
I saw it on Most Haunted, it is a fantastic building. The building could be used as a museum or hotel and the gardens could also be restored to attract individuals who are passionate about gardening.
Fri Oct 31 10:02:46 2008

Amanda, South West Wales
A wonderful building, please don't demolish it, it's a shame that it has been allowed to go to ruin. It's part of our history, it should be kept and looked after.
Fri Oct 31 10:02:20 2008

Carl/Dawn/Shotton
Well done Joe someone with sense. Let's get something done. Give this building back to Denbigh, give this building back to Wales.
Fri Oct 31 10:01:23 2008

Paul O'Donohoe, Cemaes Bay, Anglesey
Too much of our architectural heritage has been lost because councillors only care about making money building flats and houses which do not produce anything or provide for the community. Originally the land was given to the people to build a hospital. As this land was given to the people then it should be given back to the people not greedy councillors and fat cat property developers. Councillors are paid to listen to you and serve you not serve themselves remember you pay their wages through the tax you pay. The council do not own Denbigh asylum, the people do. The council just ran it then when it closed they left it to go that way so they are ultimately responsible for the state it is in and why build flats on the site? There are many flats in Cardiff which have been empty for years, same goes for other areas like Liverpool. High rise apartments built over 2 years ago according to someone I was talking to have been empty. Why waste money building something only for it to remain empty as no one is interested? So people of Denbigh join me in saving your heritage. I have many ideas for the buildings, positive ideas which could benefit the community and provide much needed jobs that is more important than flats and more houses. Contact your councillor and arrange for a meeting so that I can discuss my ideas for the buildings.
Fri Oct 31 09:50:08 2008

Rebecca Martin, UK
I don't think that they should knock down this old buliding to build more houses, I believe that this building has been through so much history that it should've already been made into a historical museum for all our younger genarations to view on the history, instead of ignoring our past history. I beg those who wish to knock this historic building down, don't - restore it and open it up again as a museum about its history for the younger/older citizens to view the passion of life and what this building has been through.
Fri Oct 31 09:17:55 2008

Vendy Davies, Leeds
I read that the current owners are being ordered to carry out major structural works on the buildings to secure them and if they do not complete these works by the close of 2009 they will be forced to pay £4.8 million to have them done. They started removing asbestos from the side this month, so I think that positively something is happening. The Most Haunted show is so silly and laughable but thank god for that, it has made aware so many people of this beautiful building and the possibility of its demolition that I think the council will now not dare to demolish it. Surely it would spark some massive petition and protest. I would certainly sign petition against demolishing it.
Thu Oct 30 15:58:33 2008

LJ, from Staffordshire
There would naturally be an uproar if this building was ever demolished. Thanks to Most Haunted filming there live for a whole week it has been in the spotlight for the whole of Britain to see. Such a beautiful building would make an excellent university. Just imagine the jobs that would create. From lecturers to cleaners and admiistration staff to kitchen staff. It doesn't have to be a prison. Wales may need one but the locals may not approve. In such beautiful surroundings it would make a perfect university. I am sure as more young people opt for higher education this would be the perfect answer to preserving this building for years to come. Of course students would apply to such a university from parts of England but mostly it would benefit Welsh students.
Thu Oct 30 15:56:28 2008

Janette Sexton, Chester
This building is the stately home of the working person. It is a vital part of the social history of this country and the most beautiful of all the old asylums. It has so much to offer in terms of its history, majesty and stunning environment. I am completely baffled as to why such a place in such a beautiful part of the world is falling down. What on earth has gone wrong?
Thu Oct 30 15:56:01 2008

LJ, from Staffordshire
There would naturally be an uproar if this building was ever demolished. Thanks to Most Haunted filming there live for a whole week it has been in the spotlight for the whole of Britain to see. Such a beautiful building would make an excellent university. Just imagine the jobs that would create. From lecturers to cleaners and administration staff to kitchen staff. It doesn't have to be a prison. Wales may need one but the locals may not approve. In such beautiful surroundings it would make a perfect university. I am sure as more young people opt for higher education this would be the perfect answer to preserving this building for years to come. Of course students would apply to such a university from parts of England but mostly it would benefit Welsh students.
Thu Oct 30 15:45:37 2008

Carl/Dawn, Shotton
It is an utter disgrace to have let this beautiful go to ruin. It should be made into a listed building, renovated for all too enjoy - a museum. Something needs to be done to save this historic building, not to be pulled down and not to be forgotten about. Let's get the ball rolling - save it now.
Thu Oct 30 08:29:45 2008

Joe
Please save this building, it is a beautiful place and could be amazing again. Is there anyone out there who has influence to change this building's future. Commenting on what it could be is not enough... someone with influence help! Virgin & Branson, Warner Hotels, anyone...anyone? Give me a petition, I'll sign it.
Thu Oct 30 08:28:39 2008

Sue Welsby, Manchester
It's a shame that the building has been left to get into such a decayed state. It could have been used for a hotel or flats. The council should be ashamed of themselves for letting this happen to such a beautiful building and could anyone help with any history that survives about the farm bailiff Mr Bumby. I think he might be related as Bumby is my maiden name.
Thu Oct 30 08:27:29 2008

Big Gaz near Rhyl
Don't DEMOLISH this building. It is a very scary place especially after what I've seen on TV. Turn it in to a prison. I think that is the best thing for you to do to Denbigh.
Thu Oct 30 08:26:22 2008

Louise, Rhos-on-Sea
What a beautiful building, surely something can be done to restore it. Maybe if it was opened as a museum people would appreciate it a little more. Please don't pull this huge piece of history off the Welsh map. It would be devastating.
Wed Oct 29 08:34:10 2008

D.C
Yvette Fielding and her cronies need to get a life. I have never seen anything so stupid as this programme. The programme is an insult to the people who died there, lived there and worked in the Denbigh Asylum. How people can be taken in by this nonsense baffles me.
Wed Oct 29 08:33:18 2008

Karen Middlebrook, West Bromwich
I think it is such a shame that such a magnificent building should be left to rot like this. The council should be ashamed of themselves. Beautiful old buildings like this should be looked after.
Wed Oct 29 08:28:29 2008

Gemma from Dursley
It looks like an interesting building. I'm currently watching Most Haunted Live: Village of the Damned. The name Gwen pops up. She was the first witch there to be hanged. I would like to know more about her.
Wed Oct 29 08:04:21 2008

Alison Jones, Wrexham
I hope they keep the hospital as I am about to study mental health. It will be interesting to keep the building as a learning tool to the future plus it is a beautiful building that has its place in the past and the future. We do not need any more bowling alleys, cinemas or shoe box houses. Keep things for our future youth.
Tue Oct 28 08:07:39 2008

Carys Drury, Penamenmawr
It sickens me to see such as beautiful building being allowed to get into such a state. Hang our heads in shame as we have allowed this to happen. Yes, it would be a fantastic site for a prison, a young offenders' institute (and believe me that is badly needed considering our young Welsh people are being sent as far afield as Exeter, Rugby, Yorkshire), we could even look into developing the land into some sort of Alton Towers. Think of the money that would bring in! But for God's sake let's do something to save that wonderful building and not allow it to be turned into new houses, Tescos or the new Cheshire Oaks!
Tue Oct 28 08:06:39 2008

Nick, Webteam
We've been blogging about the building's use for the controversial programme, Most Haunted, this week and up to Halloween and your views are welcome.
Tue Oct 28 08:04:46 2008

Jo B - Surrey
So many people think these places are torturous and insane, however some people need special care. My mum works with people with learning difficulties - who actually came out into the community from the Royal Earlswood famous asylum. I, of course, heard horror stories of these places, cages, padded rooms etc...but it is so rewarding to see in this day and age that society is so much more accommodating. There would be a different way of living back 60/80 years ago. I am so interested in hearing so much about the Denbigh Hospital - of course Most Haunted Live is on at the moment covering this place.
Tue Oct 28 08:01:49 2008

Tracy, Wrexham
Visited the site yesterday. What a great building it is, although very spooky. Would be a shame to see this building demolished.
Tue Oct 28 08:00:05 2008

Jermaine Jackson, Rhyl
After watching Most Haunted (Saturday 25 Oct), I was thinking why don't Denbighshire council buy the old hospital and turn it into a haunted house like Plas Teg, near Wrexham. It would be good for the locals and bring so much money in for Denbigh. I and a lot of people I know love the hospital and all its history and I'm sure many people around the UK would love it as well. It would be so sad to see it go. So get your heads together and save the North Wales Hospital.
Mon Oct 27 09:27:10 2008

Catherine McGuinness from Ellesmere
I think that there are enough houses in the world. Denbigh hospital should be renovated and kept in its true picturesque structure.
Mon Oct 6 08:35:26 2008

Anonymous :P Denbigh
I really disagree with the prison idea! I work in the old 'sanitorium' in Llangwyfan, and it's the best job I've ever had. It is so rewarding and the people there are amazing! So I can imagine what it was like in those days.I've also been in the North Wales Hospital while it has been closed down (about a year or two ago), and although it was a scary experience I was so shocked it has been left like that to just deteriorate in such a way that it has! It is such a beautiful building! I like the idea about it becoming a university (or even a college so people wouldn't have to go all the way to Wrexham or Rhos on Sea). It would make sense and would be doing good instead of turning it into a place for murderers to live.
Mon Sep 22 08:17:16 2008

Sue C, Flint
My great uncle was a patient at Denbigh in the '60s and he received excellent care and attention. He always seemed so settled and peaceful there. It is a beautiful building and should remain that way. Please don't make it into a prison. Give it the respect it deserves... restore it, show the local people the history of the place... make it a hotel or something.
Fri Sep 19 09:02:37 2008

Wil, Wrexham.
Denbigh meets ALL the criteria set out by Dafydd G. and it IS a big enough town which coped admirably with all the various security requirements of the former hospital. It's much more central to the whole of North Wales, needs the jobs and please don't think Caernarfon is the only Welsh-speaking community because Denbigh is its equal on that score.
Mon Sep 15 08:14:56 2008

Charlie Hobson, Denbigh
I would like to see a full consultative document on the financial benefits that would be expected from developing the old hospital into a prison. I would like this report to be steered by an independent committee, with representation from the Prison Service, the local council and local groups and representative local individuals. The report should cover the economic regereration prospects, the "risks" of escaping offenders causing problems for the locals in Denbigh, and any other significant issues raised. Then a few open debates. Then we will have more information to base our opinions upon. I believe the risk of offenders in the community is a very low risk (unless the prison were an open prison which I believe is not proposed). I believe the economic regeneration would be very significant, and couldn't Denbigh do with some of that! So on balance, I think I am pro the prison, it would be interesting to get detailed statistics on escapees from similar security level prisons so we could get some REAL handle on any risk associated with this project. Apart from any risk due to escaping offenders, what else could be seen as negative with the prison being sited here?
Wed Sep 10 08:52:10 2008

Dafydd G
If you accept that we definitely need a prison in N Wales, then Denbigh is a real option. On balance however I feel that the Caernarfon site would be marginally better. The prison needs to be in a Welsh-speaking area (there is no accommodation at present where Welsh-speakers can be housed), needs good access by public transport, preferably needs to be near a largish town - (sorry Denbigh!) and should also contribute to the area in terms of employment and Caernarfon needs jobs.
Mon Sep 8 09:48:55 2008

Wil, Wrexham.
Wrexham people would accept a prison, the proposed site is well out of town and the council are trying hard to get it. Pentre Maelor would be up in arms, and rightly so, as it would be just across the road from them, but their objections would be ignored by the council. However, the prison is supposed to serve North Wales and the temptation of the Wrexham site would be to fill it with overflow from Manchester and Liverpool using imported labour from those areas, thus defeating the whole purpose. Denbigh is the best available site, central to most of North Wales, near the A55 trunk, soon to be M56 motorway, road, plenty of labour, including Welsh-speaking, available. See my submission of Aug. 7th. for references to all my previous entries on this subject. You know it makes sense.
Mon Sep 8 08:55:28 2008

Peter
The people from wrexham will think the prison in Denbigh is a good idea. They don't want it in Wrexham where they live!
Fri Sep 5 08:49:59 2008

J Rogers from Alsager
I was born in Ruthin and lived for many years in Prestwich, Manchester, which had a HIGH SECURITY MENTAL HOSPITAL. I can honestly tell you it did not encroach on the residents. Now the main area is a Tesco and many of my friends would still prefer the hospital. Saying that the hospital at Denbigh was bad is so wrong. The people of Denbigh have to consider what will bring much needed work to their town and not add to their own rate bills.
Fri Sep 5 08:38:59 2008

Kenny Jones, Chester
My late mother started her nursing career in the '50s at Denbigh hospital, and maybe some things were not as they should have been by today's standards, but she looked back fondly at her years there. The patients had vast amounts of freedom, besides the few who were a danger to themselves and the public. They could go into Denbigh for a drink, the patients had jobs at the hospital and the patients had their own cricket team. It was a very happy place for most people, so let's fight to preserve our piece of heritage because when it's gone it's gone forever.
Wed Sep 3 08:34:47 2008

SAM THOMAS
My cousin and I are both hugely interested in this great piece of historic architecture and the development plans for the land surrounding the asylym. Personally, I believe it should be restored for historic purposes, there are many people who would take great pleasure in viewing the site as it once was. Perhaps it's slightly perverse to consider the magnificent building as a potential tourist attraction, but consider the economic benefits to Denbigh and the surroundig areas if it was made a place of national heritage. I think a certain amount of sensitivity should be afforded for those who may have had family members and close friends sectioned there. Ultimately, it tells the stories of its former inhabitants and the tortures, inconceivable methods of treatment of its patients. I believe that to lose the site or even allow developers to build on sections of the estate will only demoralize the building.
Tue Sep 2 09:27:27 2008

Jane Hughes, Flintshire
I think a prison is a good idea for the hospital. There's one in Wilmslow and no stigma attached to that town which is considered upmarket.
Mon Sep 1 09:51:28 2008

Tom Green, Brittany, France
As a former Denbigh resident and hailing from Corwen I remember the fear and awe that we had of the "mental" as children. These fears were generated by the unenlightened, inexperienced and opinionated views of those who had no knowledge of the hospital. Notwithstanding the treatments up to the 1950s, 60s and even part of the 70s were by today's standards barbaric. One has only to look at the so called "equipment" that was on display at Denbigh library to realise this. There is no way that this site should remain as a "shrine" to an outdated and cruel system. For Denbigh's sake build something good and constructive to make up for the generations of degredation and mis-treatment that those poor patients (or should I say inmates in this case) suffered. It is a valuable site and sadly as such it may well attract a host of unsuitable ideas for its so called development. Whatever happens here it will be interesting to see how the people of the area (other than the present owners and "hangers on") will benefit at all.
Mon Sep 1 09:49:23 2008

Adelle
An excellent way to use a building that will otherwise be left to wrack and ruin.
Mon Sep 1 09:06:27 2008

Lucy, Wrexham
I think the hospital should bcome a prison only if it is a new kind of prison, a prison where people are taken under the wing and and taught punishment only exists through sport. There are so many sports that take on a gruelling schedule and punishing regime which peolple seem to do for leisure. Each ward would be locked to prevent other people getting in, there is already a lock up ward existing from its former time as a mental hospital. As a former patient who resided there about 1995 for two years in a ward called 'Afallon', and the dad of my daughter who is now dead also resided ther in about 1993 before escaping to torment me with his girlfriend, such is life.I think instead of police control it would be nice to see the likes of the queen's busbies patroling and guarding the hospital, giving the place a sense of security like Buckingham Palace like we truly deserve.It would then be possible to enter team mates into para olympics, why not they are human beings lacking the ability to follow a regular education due to the frusration and ignorance of how to educate a son or daughter who is suffering some sort of co-ordination development disorder. Please consider as it would be nice to make north Wales the guinea pig and ambassador for a new age prison.
Mon Sep 1 09:04:31 2008

Wil, Wrexham.
I'm in full agreement with Sharyn, Connah's Quay, and SNAP Ian Hepplethwaite. At last the former hospital site is, at least, being considered, as a feasible proposition for use as I have suggested in previous submissions:-15/08/07, 12/10/07, 09/06/08 on this site. Councillor Colin Hughes, please consider the "stigma" of having a prison on the outskirts your town as opposed to being on permanent benefits without the option, unless your constituents are prepared, and able, to travel long distances for work. I would have thought the Town Councillors would be clapping their hands and patting each other on the back at the prospect of the jobs that would be on offer. How many people currently work at the Hospital site?
Wed Aug 27 16:08:10 2008

Sharyn, Connah's Quay
My partner and I visited the site on 2/8/08 and must say it's a very impressive beautiful building. You can feel the history there in parts of the building. You can sense all different emotions - some parts are quite welcoming and bright but in parts it's quite oppressive. You find yourself stopping and imagining what might have been the history behind certain doors. It is in a very poor state which saddens me to see as it is a fantastic building and should be saved. Whether there are good or bad memories that is all they are now, memories, but the building has to be saved as it can't be replaced. I have lots of pictures of the inside and outside also the chapel and morgue if anyone is interested.
Tue Aug 5 10:24:03 2008

Iain Hepplethwaite
Since the large psychiatric hospitals were forced to close we now have a situation where our prisons are overcrowded with many inmates suffering from mental illness. This is not a conincidence. Re-open North Wales Hospital as a psychiatric hospital and admit the mistake in closing it, and many others, in the first place, or if that is too politically incorrect; turn it into prison.
Wed Jul 9 15:06:50 2008

Wil, Wrexham.
"Housing slump makes housing development of former Denbigh Hospital no longer viable"
There is still need for a North Wales prison. See my previous submissions!
Mon Jun 9 07:41:56 2008

Alys, NE Wales Web Team
Have you seen the recent news story which says plans to re-develop the site are now "'no longer viable' because of the housing market slump"?
Thu Jun 5 14:00:11 2008

A former patient
As a former patient back in the '60s I have mixed feelings about the future of Gwynfryn as it was called back then and as I also remember visiting my grandmother there in the main when I was about 8. It had a profound experience for me resulting in nightmares and fear for years however due to circumstances at a very traumatic time in my life. I had the fear taken away from me and I can honestly say that most of the people there were the nicest people you could wish to meet but, due to their experiences, they also suffered. There is a university or a teaching stigma still attached to mental illness which is still, sadly, the cinderella of the health service. So my opinion, for what it is worth, is make it into a university or a teaching hospital.
Thu Jun 5 08:11:18 2008

Jessica Leigh Jamerson, Bala
This place is an amazing piece of architecture. I recently saw some pictures of the inside of the building certain rooms/wings, corridors and the chapel on the Internet. We have been trying to find out if it's possible for me and my partner to walk around the building to take some pictures for ourselves, we have visited some very scary mental institutions over in America and we are both very fascinated with them. So if anybody has any information on Denbigh hospital and if we can visit it would be very much appreciated.
Thu Mar 27 12:02:28 2008

Jenny - Wirral
My dad knows the guys who bought the asylum and he has been told they have got permission to turn it into something like 150 flats and have permission to build some houses on the land around it too. At least it will be looked after and not pulled down.
Tue Mar 25 09:45:31 2008

Robert Hodgkinson, Ely, Cambs
I am a Mold boy and my taid was born in Denbigh in 1875. No matter what the sentimentalists may say on this site the vast majority of people in North Wales grew up with a horror of this dreadful place. My father died within those dreadful walls and I witnessed for myself the poor quality of care he and others received. However, I am very much in favour of preserving the history of "DENBIGH ASYLUM" and certainly am all for the restoration of this magnificent building.
Mon Mar 17 09:34:01 2008

Jac, Wirral
It doesn't matter how we feel about the hospital and 'what went on there' It should be preserved. Far too much of our history has disappeared through our Government being blinkered. Put those people on community service or the petty criminals to work on the building, doing repairs, clearing the site, etc; instead of taxpayers footing the bills for their 'indiscretions'. No need for a prison in North Wales then is there?
Fri Mar 7 08:33:06 2008

Christine Taylor (nee FROST) Bucks.
My brothers, David and Robert FROST have already contributed to this site, recalling memories from our childhood living in St Davids at the entrance to "Denbigh Mental". Robert & I passed through Denbigh last year but I found it far too painful to linger long. The hospital looked so sad compared to the time it was such a bustling place. Please can some decision be made as to what to do with this historic building. Soon. I suspect the building of houses/apartments for the over 55s has been put forward, and rejected no doubt, but what better place to retire to than North Wales. Many "asylums" in the South East of England have been brought back to life this way.
Mon Nov 26 09:10:23 2007

Shirley, nee Jones
I was so saddened to see the photos of the hospital. I lived in Denbigh in 1968-83 and had several links to the hospital. Children of the staff living on site were pals of my own children. Neighbours were staff there. I enjoyed entry on only one occasion, the presentation of my own nursing award, my R.N. qualification in 1984. I was struck by the grandeur and yet the feeling of pride as a place of work for the staff. A really sad state for such a loved place to finish up in.
Thu Nov 22 09:36:54 2007

Richard Hoffmann
I had a look round the place a year or so ago. It's a shame it's been left to get into the state it's in. I hope it is restored as something else.
Tue Nov 20 13:26:19 2007

Roopa, NY, USA
I trained in North Wales as a Senior House Officer in Psychiatry and had heard of many stories about this place, both good and bad. However, I only got to visit it once and was bowled over by the beauty of the building and its location. Denbigh Hospital has a place in the history of psychiatry despite our own personal feelings about it. Therefore, at least a part of it deserves to be preserved as a museum. The rest could be a school or a hospital depending on what the people in the community desire. We all know about the horrendous treatment meted out to the mentally ill over centuries in the "mental institutions" and this building should remain as a reminder of the black past, lest history repeat itself.
Fri Oct 12 09:35:53 2007

Wil, Wrexham
Latest news:- Search is on for a site for a prison in North Wales! See my submission, on this site, dated 15th August 2007. Denbigh Hospital has everything going for it if my suggestion is taken up! Central for ALL of N.Wales, close enough to A55, Police H.Q. almost adjacent. Hospital buildings put into improved state, site presentable once more. New jobs for locals, I think it's ideal, what think you?

Latest news
Fri Oct 12 09:17:02 2007

Lynne, Corwen
Could we get some comments please from the people who were 'turfed' out of 'The Mental' and placed into the community, and can we hear from them or their families just how much help they got and still get from the 'people' who made the decision to close the hospital down, how their lives were affected and where they are today, how they feel they were treated and what the Denbighshire CC did to help them and what is being done to help them now?
Thu Oct 11 08:48:03 2007

TD, Yorkshire
Visited the site today and it is in a very poor state of repair, floors and celings collapsing in etc. I think something should be done before it is too late.
Mon Sep 3 08:41:29 2007

Lawrence, Llandudno
I lived in Denbigh for a few short years, but never knew of the hospital as I was so young, but now even only being 18 I can say that no matter what happens to this building it will never have the glory it should have. We are so very lucky here in north Wales to have such places of beauty, and yet when I look at the hospital, I see it as the most beautiful building I have ever seen. It has a self announced power to it, but its weaknesses are visible even from Love Lane. Never should it have been allowed to fall into this state of disrepair.
Tue Aug 28 12:05:38 2007

Sue, Wrexham
I agree totally with Phil Edward (Coedpoeth). People should think on when they reminisce about all the happy times they and other staff members had. It was worse than a prison and as for the staff members being caring...they put the fear of god into me and I was only visiting. So get real, stop looking at "THE MENTAL" through rose coloured spectacles.
Fri Aug 24 09:38:19 2007

Kelly Flynn
My mum was in there for a few months in 1966. I returned in the '90s to do a piece for one of the Welsh TV companies on the history of Denbigh hospital. This place was an 'oasis' for many who had problems they needed help with at the time. When doing research for the programme I spent a weekend as an 'inpatient' and was amazed not only at the people in there - professional people like doctors etc as well as really 'ordinary' people - but also the support that the 'inmates' provided for each other as well as the excellent care of the nursing staff. I truly believe from what I saw, that it saved the lives of a number of people who would never have survived without the care Denbigh provided. Those who feel Denbigh was a 'threat' are those people who also feel anyone with a mental illness is a threat. To turn this place into a university would be wonderful - even better would be to return it to its previous role as a place of refuge for those who have need of solace and care during hard and dark times - or indeed a hospice.
Thu Aug 23 11:24:23 2007

Craig Davies, Denbigh
I think it should be made into a university or tech college to give the youth in surrounding areas a better chance of higher education in vocational qualifications. I feel after reading some of the suggestions that I am the only one that feels this way. My god wouldn't an education or trade be more beneficial to the youngsters of Denbigh and surrounding areas?
Mon Aug 20 10:28:03 2007

Wil, Wrexham
Re:- restoration of Denbigh's former mental hospital. How about a resident work-force, cheap labour with skills collected from overcrowded sites throughout UK. Jobs for all in the area, men and women! Wrexham will bid for it but, if their Council is to be believed, the unemployment rate is so low they don't need it. What am I talking about? Sorry, I should have mentioned it sooner. There have been calls for a prison for North Wales, plus calls for a women's prison. Think about it, don't just go off on one, you know it used to be a secure establishment. With sensible planning, realistic incentives for, and constructive use of, a selected though captive workforce the stately old building could be restored to its former glory and provide some much-needed jobs in the area.
Wed Aug 15 09:54:27 2007

Liz Cooley, Northwich
My cousin, Mair Price Jones, had several spells in Denbigh Hospital in the 70s and 80s mainly. We visited quite often and I was so impressed with the beauty of the building and surroundings. I do hope that it can be saved from decay and am surprised that it is not a listed building. Perhaps the National Trust would be interested? Failing that a sympathetic renovation of the Hall maybe as a luxury hotel/country club complex with leisure facilities in the grounds would bring employment and tourists to the area. To allow it to rot should simply not be an option nor should it be a giant hosing estate.
Mon Aug 6 10:51:49 2007

Kathy from Crewe, Cheshire
For God's sake SAVE this wonderful place. I was there just a few days ago as I had heard such a lot about it. It was SO SO sad to see such a majestic building crumbling and decaying. The architecute is just amazing, and the countryside surrounding stunning. To me the main building should be restored to its former glory I think a Hotel and leisure complex would suit it. We did something like it with Crewe Hall. The council were going to knock that down too. If we loose this site it will be a great loss. The Victorian certainly knew what they were doing with architecure. I know its history isn't so savoury but that's exactly what were are loosing here our history and our heritage. I feel very strongly about saving places like this because I live in a towm where most of its heritage has been dessimated by bad council planning.SAVE IT NOW BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE.
Thu Aug 2 08:56:43 2007

Dilys Edwards, Henllan
I have only just discovered this site. I trained in 1987. Anyone remember me?
Tue Jul 31 09:31:50 2007

Robert Frost, Franklin, Tasmania
The continued interest in the fate of the Hospital in Denbigh stretches far beyond the shores of the UK!I was born in Parc Y Twll at the entrance to the Hospital and later lived in St Davids, adjacent to the main gate. My father, Sidney Frost was first the Clerk & Steward and later the Group Secretary from 1938 to 1966. I now live in Tasmania and watch the website with great interest should there be any mention of the Hospital's future.
Fri Jun 8 13:55:47 2007

Cathy Carr from Mold
I am anxious to find the whereabouts of Ann Clark, SEN, on Gwydyr Ward. If anybody knows where she is please contact me via this website or at Llwyn y Groes Unit at the Maelor where I am still doing bank work.
Tue May 29 09:35:28 2007

Sarah
I was a patient there for a breakdown about 11 to 12 years ago. I was in the unit but there was still a few patients in the main part. I think they should do something useful with it instead of letting it fall apart. The council are money mad, they could make very good use of it. There are people out there who need help, people with cancer and all sorts of illnesses who could do a place to maybe just rest or a place to pass away in peace.
Mon Apr 16 09:54:21 2007

Ceris
I think it should be open as a museum not leisure centre. I would love to go in and see what it looked like back in the day.
Wed Apr 11 11:50:54 2007

Sam
Me and my mate were bored today so we went near one of the old buildings boarded up. We got so far and we heard a really weird sound. It was unnatural. It scared us so much we ran away. It was really scary and I won't be going back. There are rumours and now I believe them. It should be left how it is but made harder to access.
Wed Apr 11 08:32:33 2007

Gemma, Llandderfel
I think it shoud be reopened for people to visit, as a young person of 21 I would love to know all about it and see what it looked like back then. It is a little bit of Denbigh history and I don't agree on it being brought down for new houses.
Mon Mar 5 08:39:48 2007

Roy Spilsbury, Conwy
My work took me into Denbigh Hospital for 14 yrs up to 1988. Fond memories of both staff and patients. The loss of the hospital was the loss of a refuge for some, with the open community not as caring as we would like to believe. No less a loss for Denbigh and the Vale of Clwyd, was Denbighshire's capitulation to vested interests on the Lon Clwyd community route linking Rhyl to Ruthin. A thoroughly shameful episode. The problem for some was the cycling component. What is it about cycling that causes such an irrational reaction with some, when we have far more to worry about with the motor car? But that was yesterday. What about tomorrow? There is nothing to stop Lon Clwyd being resurrected. If you know of any campaign group, do let CTC Cymru know at www.cyclingnorthwales.co.uk
Wed Feb 14 09:20:04 2007

Phil
I worked at the hospital for many years, I lost my job due to the the closure, what really hurts me is that there are a few names on this site who go on about saving the hospital and what it was like to work there, these are the very same people who backed putting patients into the community and in doing so helped with the closure of the hospital, so please stop this pretend fondness for the place or is it just guilt?
Mon Dec 4 10:42:05 2006

15 from Denbigh
I disagree with the comments about the theme park - everyone should think logically about what would happen if this was built and how it would affect the community. The traffic would be horrendous and would spoil the peace of the area. To those saying a theme park would give the youngsters something to do - I dont know about you but I would not be able to afford to visit one of these expensive theme parks and im sure a lot of other youngsters in the area wouldnt either. People dont have that much money to spend on a regular basis. I think that some of the other ideas are very good. A museum would make sure that our generation could learn more about the local history. I would hate to see the building demolished because it is a really beautiful landmark and should be respected as an important part of the towns history. My family talk about their experiences with the building quite often as it was the first place where my mum worked and it is something that everyone remembers and it should always be that way
Wed Nov 15 08:24:40 2006

Andrew Lindop
Another couple of ideas, as Newi is trying to head off in its own direction soon and becoming a university in its own right rather than a part of The University of Wales - Bangor, why not create a new North Wales University in Denbigh, this in turn will help local business as the students will want to spend in the shops and bars there. Failing that how about a good quality Welsh boarding school.
Mon Nov 6 14:00:02 2006

sue fisher from wrexham
Having had a family member who was admitted to the hospital in the early eighties, and the traumatic stories both they and other "in mates" told me concerning treatment at the hospital, I think the hospital should be demolished and the site used for a children's playground with a peace garden so we don't forget the poor souls who died there. Ex staff members seem to have forgotten the trauma and sadness that went on there.
Wed Oct 11 08:08:03 2006

jay, Flintshire
This beautiful old building is being left to fall appart and it would better serve as a hospice/cancer care unit, the impact of going to a lovley old building rather than being sent to a hospital would benifit the morale of the patients and make them feel more comforble.
Thu Sep 21 08:25:28 2006

Ken Southport
I was at this site yesterday and did a full site visit for the new owners for some work they asked me to do there. I went into the building with the caretaker who showed me around the place and I was shocked how much of a state this place is in. I would not advise anyone to go in there at all and to go in there of a night time is utter madness. You could quite easily fall to your death. The dry rot is so bad in places now that the floors and the roof will fall in any day now - it's just a matter of time. I will be amazed if it makes it though this winter. We also took a camera with us and took lots of pictures of the place to help us do our quotes. If no work is started there very soon this place will fall to bits and will be a death trap to any young kids who want to go mess around in there.
Wed Sep 20 07:51:21 2006

Nick, Web Team
The on-off saga of the Denbigh Hospital redevelopment plan looks like it's now back on as wrangles between the owners and the council have been resolved, according to http://icnorthwales.co.uk.
Mon Sep 18 14:29:30 2006

Guto Lloyd-Davies, Rhyl
We are the publishers of North Wales Hospital 1847-1995 by Clwyd Wynne - www.gwasg.com
Fri Sep 15 10:09:25 2006

Andrew Lindop, Connahs Quay
The Hospital is still in good external nick, but something needs to be done with it before it does a gwylfa hirathog and falls to pieces, the old house on the moors had a beautiful spiral staircase inside and rooms etc when my dad visited when he was young now its a ruin and the hospital will follow in its path, yuppie accommodation is an awful prospect for a great building but its better than ruin. The NHS wont spend on it in a billion years so a cancer hospital is out. The hotel is a good plan but something needs to be there to draw the punters.
Thu Sep 7 08:53:39 2006

joey from st asaph
does any one know how to get into the hospital because a few of us went up there today and tried to find a way in and we coldnt, so if any one knows how to get in there can you please write on this messageboard and tell us how asap.
Webteam replies: Hi, there is no access to the building due to its state. Access to the site is by permission of the owner.
Tue Sep 5 08:40:52 2006

Clwyd Wynne,Denbigh
It is some time since I last looked at this site and I am pleased to see that the majority of comments are positive and there are some very good suggestions for the hospital's future. For those who are looking for further info, we have now reprinted the only book which has been written specifically about the hospital, if you are interested please contact our website northwaleshospital.ik.com. I can also recommend Pam Michael's book which is a more general history of mental illness in North Wales but is based around the NWH. If you wish to see more old photos there are many on the website and if you have any photos or stories to contribute we would be grateful for them as we are currently working on a new book.
Wed Aug 16 15:41:21 2006

Lisa, Denbighshire
I can see that there are real mixed feeling about the NWH. As a trainee psychologist I feel we need to preserve the stories and experiences of the development of mental health services. Although our understanding has changed significantly the prejudice and stigma associated with mental health still exsists. I feel that there should be some kind of working museum to capture the experiences, good and bad of this historical, and controversial part of all our histories. Obviously though money talks which will probably determine the future of this important part of north wales history.
Mon Jul 31 09:40:43 2006

Ceri - Flintshire
I think the actual building and the land is so vast that you could do all of the below! However, I truly believe that it should be as it always was a hospital for the mentally ill. My father had to go into an EMI home and we actually had the choice of 5 in this whole area. If part of this could be for people with EMI issues, cancer and of course those with depression that do have to live in, they could make part of it into supervised homes for people that do need help, ie recovering from Cancer or EMI homes to rehabilitate patients. To leave it go to go to nothing is a crying shame. Quite honestly to make a theme park would be ridiculous we need more health facilities in the area, that is what it has always been used for and should continue to be used for. This would again create more jobs in Denbighshire and give the Denbigh people sense of community back. The councils in North Wales should get their acts together and work in unison to do something with the site to help people in the whole of North Wales and beyond!
Fri Jul 28 15:16:27 2006

A. Williams from Denbigh
I worked at the NWH many years ago and have fond memories. Something needs to be put there instead of letting it crumble away, it is such a shame and waste of such a beautiful building with so much grounds.
Fri Jul 14 10:20:18 2006

A. Hopper
I completely agree with you Sara. A cancer care unit would be good, but the council are all money money money and will make it into a housing area anyway. Many people I speak to say a cancer unit would be good. I wonder if the council would listen to people? P.S. good idea.
Thu Jun 8 11:36:46 2006

Sara Jones, Denbigh
Having grown up in Denbigh, the hospital closed down when I was young, but I do not remember such bad feeling in my area about it. Looking back, those who worked there had greater experience of the community of the hospital than those of us living on the outside. Although some bad things may have occurred there, it was due to ignorance and we as a society have learnt from this. I don't think we should tear down the building because of what it DID represent, that would just be hiding our past. We must preserve and use the building. I agree with those who suggest we turn part of the building into a museum to celebrate Denbigh's history in general, (not just the hospital) and a small scale development would rejuvenate the town. However, what I fear is that the housing will attract yet more people coming into the area. We need affordable housing which is sympathetic to the evironment, not luxury appartments inside the old hospital building and services aimed at the wealthy. Also, how will we deal with the increased traffic volume? We could use the building for cancer care and other forms of health care, as many of those with serious illness have to travel great distances for the care they need, perhaps the peaceful environment would aid their recovery? We need more specialised facilities in the area and their families could also be accommodated on the site. We need to find a solution to end Denbigh's fast decline but just building houses (which is what seems to be occurring at the moment) to expand the town will do little to help, we need incentives for businesses too. I, also, think that more needs to be done than build a monstrous theme park to combat the antisocial behaviour of young people!
Tue Jun 6 09:15:19 2006

Denbigh, Australia
Hey :) my mum named me after Denbigh. isn't that cool? I think it should be made into a museum.
Tue May 30 07:12:11 2006

shaune from holywell
i think the old hospital should be made in to a country hotel and leisure place with restaurants, golf course and gyms etc. there is already a rugby and cricket pitch on the grounds from when the hospital staff had the teams with a bit of t.l.c and a lot of money it could be made very nice.
Mon May 22 12:23:25 2006

Tan. Kim n Clo, Denbigh
We think that the hospital should be turned into a proper shopping centre.
Mon May 15 10:43:09 2006

Paul Williams 10E DHS
I think the hospital should be used to set up a shopping centre like the Trafford. It's about time we got some decent shops around here.
Thu May 11 13:37:30 2006

Karen Mills Wrexham
It's not fair to say the hospital was dreaded & hated throughout North Wales! That is your view on it but not everyone's. I think the building is so beautiful & still can't understand why it was left to get in such a state. I'm really interested in the history of the place but there doesn't seem to be a lot of info on it.
Mon Apr 24 09:22:22 2006

Ste Evans, Denbigh
I think it should be knocked down and they should build a golf course.
Tue Apr 11 11:10:42 2006

sam from st.asaph
the mental should be made into a massive youth centre where all the people who just hang around on the street or in a bus stop have somewhere to go and do things. r it could be made into another 'tiv'
Thu Mar 30 11:39:38 2006

chelsea denbigh
i think it should be a home where people with terminal illness can go, as its got beautiful sites around it and the atmosphere around it in the summer time will be really good.
Mon Mar 27 10:49:17 2006

Kriss Wilkes
It was a while back now, me and my boyfriend at the time decided to go for a walk around the hospital grounds. We decided to stop at the left wing for a sandwich, when we heard the most peculiar sound, a sound of a burning fire. We looked around and there was no smoke. We walked hand in hand into the old ball room, were the sound grew louder. We glanced over to the fire place. My boyfriend, ethan, walked over to the fire place and froze. I ran over to him, I had never seen him this way before. He pointed to the fire and i looked... there i saw the face of man, an old frail man, his face in the flame. It was unbelievable. Later that evening, at home, we sat up all night talking about the events, which was so unreal.
Mon Mar 27 10:43:48 2006

george and michael
we think the hospital should be changed into a massive sporting complex it would give people something to do and it will keep people in denbigh fit and healthy
Thu Mar 23 11:54:53 2006

Kate W Lynda S Denbigh High School
L: I think it should be made into a museum to represent what went on. K: I think it should be knocked down and they should put a theme park there.
Thu Mar 23 11:48:16 2006

Pupil Denbugh high school
what about moving the cancer ward at glan clwyd there? its beautiful and big and then the cancer unit could be made innto a short term cancer unit
Mon Mar 20 10:32:28 2006

Sam from Nantglyn
I think the building should be made into a leisure centre as the one at the moment is far away from the top of town. If something like an ice rink was built then it would attract a lot of people.
Mon Mar 20 10:30:18 2006

James and Dan From Denbigh
we think the hospital should be changed into a base for proper sporting facilities. These could be used by the teams for Denbigh. And the main buildings could be used as a gym, weights room and things like that.
Thu Mar 16 11:26:49 2006

Beefy jones , Denbigh
i loved the hospital it was a beautiful sight it really saddens me to see it in its current state i still shed a tear now and again remembering all the happy times i spent working there
Thu Mar 16 11:22:34 2006

Ben, Wales
RE: Amiee's question as to who owns the site... Its currently owned by Acebench Investments who acquired the site in 2002 from the former owner Mr Hitman. The grade II listing only applies to the frontage, and the two wings of original wards. Everything beyond this is unlisted and can be redeveloped/demolished. I'm a bit concerned that you refer to it as infamous? It provided a much needed refuge for many which in this modern era is sadly lacking. Best use of the buildings? A museum to dispel the myths behind mental illness and the workings of an asylum system. I think the 'theme park' ideas are a bit unlikely considering.....
Wed Mar 15 16:32:47 2006

Anthony earl
the young people of denbigh need some were that they can go and do some fun things and not hang around on the street making an anoying thing of there self.
Mon Mar 13 10:40:35 2006

danny holmes and sean williams
we reckon the mental should be knocked down and made into a theme park so the youths of denbigh can enjoy themselves rather than hang around the streets
Mon Mar 13 10:24:15 2006

phil wrexham
as a denbigh lad born and bred, it saddens me to see the old town a ghost town, half the shops at the top of town are empty the pubs are empty, i worked at the mental for many years, the closure put a noose around the towns neck, some of the people who go on about saving the hospital are the very same people who backed it's closure, denbigh must look to the future, the impact that 280 houses being built on this site would generate much needed revenue for the town
Fri Mar 10 22:52:15 2006

Aimee from Denbigh
Who does own the site? If anyone knows, please write.
Thu Mar 9 13:10:50 2006

Aimee from Denbigh
Does anyone have any good ideas for what could possibly go on the land where the infamous Denbigh Mental is? Bear in mind that the main building cannot be removed.
Thu Mar 9 13:09:05 2006

Chloe, Kelsey and Natasha
We think they should build something for younger kids to do...rather than hang around the streets all the time. Lots of love us 3 girls from Denbigh high school xxx
Thu Mar 9 11:49:32 2006

Alex and Steph
I think that Denbigh hospital should be turned into a theme park as it would attract more people to the area, be more employment opportunities and there would also be more things for young people to do which would stop anti-social behaviour!
Thu Mar 9 11:44:07 2006

David from Buckley
Would have made an appropriate place for the National Assembly and would have cost much less than the 'Crystal Palace' in Cardiff!
Sat Mar 4 23:17:33 2006

Martin Davies - Rhuddlan
As someone who was born and raised in Denbigh and I am surprised that the building that was the North Wales Hospital can still raise such emotions in so many people. The building is today what it always has been, simply a building and I dont believe it deserves to be condemned because of what some people may choose to remember it for. Lets face it, the hospital is a prime piece of real estate in a fantastic location with lots of land. We should also remember that it was always public money that built and funded the site for its entire history. Do we really want to throw this opportunity to use this great asset of Denbigh away? I don't believe we should or Denbigh can afford to miss the chance.
Fri Mar 3 09:57:02 2006

Fitz, Southport
Easy solution: demolish the monstrosity that is the 'modern' council offices and use the old Hospital as the new offices. Works for everyone: residents don't have to stare at the ugly concil building, council gets huge, beautiful bulding (also a part of local history) and the people wishing to see the old Hospital preserved are happy that it is being reused. :-)
Wed Mar 1 19:34:44 2006

Jenny Morgan Wollongong NSW Australia
We all know that dreadful things were perpetrated at these old "bins" through ignorance and what at the time was current and accepted psychiatric practice. However, by the nature of mental illness some patients will always need looking after and such asylums were havens for them. Surely better than B & Bs with no supervision, the streets or prison. What a terrible shame if this gem of architectural worth were lost. Housing or a use which would be of benefit to the community is surely the way to go. I'm not wearing rose coloured glasses and have been a registered nurse in the UK and Australia for forty years, not at Denbigh though.
Tue Feb 28 13:11:53 2006

Nigel Roberts, Lancashire UK
Having been brought up in Anglesey, I did hear some strange tales as a child about 'Denbigh, however these were soon dis-proved when I became a Psychiatric Nurse. I trained in Chester, and visited quite a lot with patient cricket teams. I later worked in Gwynedd as a CPN, and have fond memories of my trips to 'The Mental'. Architecturally it is a unique building that I feel should be retained/restored, as a tribute to those who worked there, and were patients there over the years. There are now many examples of former Mental Hospitals that have been converted to fine accommodation, whilst retaining the architecture of the building. It is good to see that this site has more positive comments than negative. My negative comments would be aimed at NHS Estates and its handling of the whole site over the last decade.
Sun Feb 12 17:59:51 2006

jon hopkins from warwickshire
I know the hospital site well, my grandparents lived in Denbigh from the 1970s until the late 1990s. I visited Denbigh many times, I now live just outside Warwick on the site of a Large Victorian Asylum, this is a similar site to Denbigh hospital, it has been renovated with a mixture of private and social housing, 90% of the original buildings have been retained and it has been developed tastefully & people have a pride in living there. We live in a small housing association house I think a similar develop ment would be good for the local denbigh economy.
Thu Feb 2 18:52:45 2006

Fitz from Southport
Just going back to a previous point... Why are some people concentrating on the bad aspects of the Hospitals' history? I realise that this must be done in order to present a fair view, but you wouldn't cut down a tree because it produced a few bad apples, Would you?
Sun Jan 29 19:28:37 2006

Christine Davidson (Jennings), Melbourne, Austral
My father was a patient in 1968 & we were grateful he made a good recovery. The building must be seen as an architectural achievement and restored either for public use/art gallery/cafes/accommodation or made into town houses/large apartments/it would make wonderful homes for retired people and a range of facilities of quality could be part of the restructure. Please look around the world at how buildings can be revamped and rebuilt to accommodate a modern lifestyle with charm and sophistication. Preserve it at all costs - there must be mulitple uses for such a generous building - almost a mini village.
Mon Jan 23 10:54:59 2006

Benwrx
In response to the question regarding books on the North Wales hospital I can recommend 'Care and Treatment of the Mentally Ill in North Wales 1800-2000' By Pamela Michael. Also the historical society have their own book which I believe they are intending on re printing if there is enough interest, also they have an excellent DVD available called 'Voices of the asylum'. In reagrds to the question about who actualy owns the site at present.... its owned by a property development company.
Fri Jan 20 07:59:09 2006

gill roberts denbigh
i worked in the hospital from 1971 until it closed in 1995. it was a wonderful place to work, i would be interested to hear from ex colleagues who were in my training year and have moved away
Sun Jan 15 20:28:40 2006

Samantha - Prestatyn
It saddens me to see the North Wales Hospital in such disrepair. I have worked for the NHS for 19 years and have fond memories of the hospital and the community spirit. I notice that those people with negative views have not actually worked there. I do not wear rose tinted spectacles, but would go back tomorrow.
Sun Jan 15 09:47:34 2006

Clare Cornes
I've recently become interested in the closure of the North Wales hospital and the practises that went on there. If anyone knows of any books or has any useful information to share with me please let me know.
Fri Jan 13 10:54:05 2006

siy lucas....rowen
Who actually owns the site?
Sun Dec 18 21:10:30 2005

Martyn Peters, Denbigh
The north Wales hospital is typical of Denbigh, we seem to have a horrible habit of letting things of importance pass us by and get forgotten. It's about time we made something of interest for people in the local area and to visitors to the area, why don't we work together to turn the place into something the whole community to enjoy, from the young to the old? Let's face it there is plenty of room. And let's not see yet more history and fields get destroyed.
Wed Aug 17 12:50:17 2005

Helen Hall nee Merrick, Swansea
I moved from Swansea to Denbigh to do my nurse training and I met many friends there and only have fond memories of the hospital. Unfortunately I moved back to Swansea once I trained, now with much regret. The hospital always meant so much to me and looking back I did not appreciate the fantastic beauty and importance of the place. It would be lovely to see the hosptial back to its former glory for everyone else to see.
Sun Jul 17 19:16:01 2005

Sarah
Me an my mates go there to see what it's like and what's there, and that just gives us a brilliant feeling of what it was like. So maybe you should open a free museum type thing but don't do it up because the effect of how it is now is amazing!
Thu Jul 7 03:06:16 2005

Ceinwen Lavelle Brisbane
Can't you have your pie and eat it too. There are 100's of acres of land attached to the site. Can't some of the buildings be preserved and incorperated in the new community facilities your talking about. A small section could be kept as a museum highlighting the positives and NEGATIVES that were part of the hospital's history. It may have helped many people but some of its treatments were barbaric (if acceptable in their day). There were people that were patients who were so institutionalised that they were terrified of leaving, for some it is the only home they remember. I met people who had received frontal lobotimies at the hospital for what is now considered minor psychiatric illnesses. I was told about people who spent their whole life at the hospital because they lost their virtue. These and so many stories like them need to be preserved, so we always remain vigiliant for the rights of people who can not always speak out for themselves. Please go forward and create better communities and more affordable housing.
Thu Jun 30 12:33:24 2005

Matthew, Prestatyn
I am only 17 and have read a few things about the hospital and don't really care what went on there but i think you should put it in the Prince's Trust because it is a historic building and should be preserved. I don't no what it is like because I have never been there or been in it. Personally, I think you shouldn't give these people planing permission because: 1. We have too many things being built. 2. It's a piece of history for the town of Denbigh. 3. I just think you should give it to Prince Charles to preserve it - plus, I trust him.
Tue Jun 7 19:42:35 2005

L Mapstone, Abergele
I personally think that the hospital should be restored, it is a wonderful building, a great piece of history that is becoming hard to keep hold of. As most of you say, stop looking to the past and just think what a wonderful future this building could have.
Tue Jun 7 15:39:53 2005

Phil Roberts from Llanfairpwll
The problem some people have with history is that they compare it to the present. Yes the North Wales Hospital belongs in history but in the same way any part of our heritage belongs there. We move on, progress and learn from our history in order to make a better future eg "lest we forget"!! I recall the North Wales Hospital with fondness in that it was a "village", a "community" where everyone knew and supported each other. Something we tend to redicule in today's world. I was born in Denbigh and am proud to have served the hospital albeit towards the end of it's glorious existence. The question that needs to be asked is "What would have happened had there not been a North Wales Hospital?" My answer is that generations of people with mental health issues would have suffered at the hands of people who didn't know their culture, their language and there heritage. I do also reflect upon the question had this magnificent hospital been in a more urban area (South of England??) more would have been done to save and restore it!!
Thu Apr 28 09:04:11 2005

Clwyd Wynne,Denbigh
I am not sure if the three people who expressed negative views about the hospital are speaking from their own experiences and if so, I am sorry. I do not know how they can claim that 'everyone' in North Wales hated it, as I speak to many people who were treated in the hospital in my role as Chairman of Vale of Clwyd Mind, who are still very grateful for the care and understanding that they experienced from the staff. People have and will always have good and bad experiences in all our hospitals, but I feel it is unfair when people inflict their prejudices on others. I make no apology for trying to retain the history of a place which helped so many people and saved many lives. I do not however have rose tinted glasses and realise that there were failures and that a small minority of people experienced care of a lower standard than they should expect. The vast majority of staff were good, honest and hard working and deserve to be recognised and remembered for their devotion to those who needed their help. I am not an advocate for retaining large mental hospitals generally but I think this debate needs to be conducted in a reasoned and sensible way without making personal attacks on people who are entitled to their opinions. I was born and brought up in Denbigh and have been saddened by its decline since the closure of the hospital and will support and do all I can to try to revive the town's fortunes.
Mon Apr 18 21:43:34 2005

stacey harrison-manchester
the hospital is great archetecture for people/tourists to see when they drive past. too many houses have been built and it would be nice for something old to be left to be shown the old part of northwales
Thu Apr 7 09:30:48 2005

Ian Peat Denbigh
The hospital has been empty for 10 years. It continues to deteriorate in condition. It can be a great asset to the whole of North Wales. You can never build anything like it ever again. Why destroy what you cannot rebuild. A park you can have anywhere as long as there is a green field. Gwynn Thomas is out of touch and does not speak for Denbigh. Majority of people were for the new development and desperately needed investment. I just hope the owners will not loose patience.
Mon Apr 4 12:23:45 2005

Phil Edwards from Coedpoeth
All this sentimantality about the old Denbigh hospital makes me sick. People like Gwyn Thomas, Clwyd Wynne, Dafydd Lloyd Jones , etc. should understand that the place was hated and dreaded across the whole of North Wales. It was not "Denbigh" hospital but the North Wales hospital, and most patients were separated from their families by long distances. It was a dreadful place, and, like all the other former asylums, it belongs in history. We should not recall it with fondness.
Sun Apr 3 22:14:04 2005

Mike Davies from Henllan
I really am totally fed up with Gwyn Thomas acting as the unoffical spokespesron for the townspeople of Denbigh and surrounding area. We desperately need high quality and varied new housing for the area, and the old hospital site is the ideal place. If Gwyn Thomas was totally honest, he would admit that he lives within a stone's throw of the hospital site, and he is afraid that he is going to be affected by the (slightly) increased traffic flow. Furthermore, those people who used to work at the hospital need to remember that this building was feared and reviled throughout North Wales. Would any of those people who have such fond memories of "Denbigh mental" ever have chosen to be patients there? Of course not. For goodness sake, stop living in the past and let Denbigh have a future, otherwise it will die.
Sun Apr 3 22:06:11 2005

B Jones, Denbigh
Denbigh needs to bury the past and look forward to the future. The spectre of the old North Wales hospital continues to haunt and blight the town. It was a dreadful place for everyone in North Wales, apart, obviously, for those people who once worked there, and who continue to reflect through rose-coloured spectacles that somehow seem to intensify in rose hue as the years pass by. Furthermore, the rantings of the retired local GP might have something to do with the fact that he lives not too far from the hospital site. Come on Denbigh people; follow the example of the more enlightened amongst you. Bury the past and look forward to a better future. Just remember, the NIMBYs, farmers, land-owners and other people have already lost us a major opportunity by scuppering the plans for Lon Clwyd (cycle track). If you love the town as much as you profess to do, forget about the past, or Denbigh will continue in its largely moribund state.
Sun Apr 3 10:10:50 2005

Former senior staff nurse Marion Baker
I'm very anxious that the building should be preserved. A thing of beauty is a joy forever and I'd hate to see it demolished.
Wed Mar 23 16:16:21 2005

Dr Gwyn Thomas
We've got enough houses being built. We don't need any more.
Wed Mar 23 16:15:42 2005

Melina Morris
I have an environmental concern about the impact of 280 houses on that site.
Wed Mar 23 16:15:01 2005

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