Fresh hopes for Denbigh hospital
News that the near derelict is being asset stripped by opportunist thieves - , says Western Mail - will come as no surprise to locals.
Closed to the public: The site of North Wales Hospital
But what may come as a surprise is the work going on behind the scenes.
A Denbighshire council statement reads: "Although outward appearances may seem otherwise, there is a huge amount of effort going on at a most senior level to try to resolve the situation."
That will be welcome to people who are interested in the building. You only have to do a to see how the "private" property fascinates people even now, in its current state.
It's certainly atmospheric. So much so that paranormal programme Most Haunted used the location for a week of vigils, causing mixed emotions at the time.
A friends group, - including former staff - has long been trying to preserve the building and people's memories.
We've had contributors to our history section sharing memories such as:-
- Growing up at Denbigh Hospital
This comes from David whose father worked at the hospital
- The hospital band
Former hospital employee and band member Dafydd Lloyd Jones recounts memories
- Sports teams
David Bryn Jones talks about the hospital's different sports teams
- Photos: Preserving artefacts
Objects include a straitjacket and tokens used as payment for staff labour
Meanwhile, the discussions continue about the building and the site's future with a list of possible uses already discounted, including , and a . Even has been mentioned.
But Denbighshire council, it seems, is still hopeful.
"We are working with other organisations, including working closely with the , to bring about a satisfactory solution," said a council statement.
People may remember that regeneration trust president, Prince Charles, has long been concerned about Denbigh hospital and visited the site in 2004.