Multi agency hub approved for town’s last bank

Planners have approved a bid to transform a former town centre bank into offices and a multi-agency hub.

The closure of the Barclays branch in 2017 left Amlwch without any banks at all, and was widely condemned by local politicians at the time.

But the building on Salem Street now looks set for a new lease of life after  Môn Communities Forward (Mon CF) received backing for its plans to transform it info office space as well as two single bedroom flats.

According to Môn CF, it plans to use the building as a “multi-agency hub” and a base for the enterprise’s activities within Amlwch, be it support in finding work, helping people to start their own business or improving their employment prospects.

The supporting documents note that four jobs would be expected to be created as part of the project.

The plans were approved by Anglesey Council’s planning department this week after clearing the consultation phase, without the need to be called into the planning committee.

“The hub will be offered to a range of support agencies (eg C.A.B.) and departments of the local authority (eg. Housing) who would like a base in Amlwch,” noted the supporting documents.

“The intention is to provide an expanded support for those looking to find a job or establish a venture by providing Mentors who will be on hand in the Hub for five days a week.

“It is envisaged that the Hub will increase footfall not only in Salem Street but the entire Town Centre as people come to the Hub for help and advice.”

With the charity already having offices in Holyhead and Menai Bridge, they propose the new Amlwch hub to improve its general presence on the island, having been set up in 2012 to help people improve their personal circumstances through work or entrepreneurship.

“This proposal provides an opportunity to re-occupy an empty premises on a main street in one of the three main towns on Anglesey,” say the supporting documents, noting that Mon CF has an annual turnover of over £1.7m and employing 39 members of staff.

“(It) would provide a feasible solution which would allow for an empty building in the centre of Amlwch be occupied, not just for the workers of Mon CF, but also for potential residents of the 2 flats at the rear.
“Their occupation would help prop up the local economy of the centre of Amlwch with footfall and the residential occupants of the flats.

“The proposal is sympathetic to its surroundings, with the proposals demonstrating the sensitive re-use of the building whilst retaining the existing façade externally, and will invigorate that area of Salem Street, an opportunity that cannot be missed.”

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter