Madoc Street Store: Residents Share Ideas for Vacant Site

A former Littlewoods store in Llandudno has been sold at auction for a combined £147,000, sparking debate among local residents about its future.

The site, encompassing both 6 and 8 Madoc Street, was acquired on February 10th by McHugh & Co. Number 6 sold for £82,000, while 8 Madoc Street fetched £65,000, according to reports.

The property had been home to Littlewoods Clearance, operated by Shop Direct, for several years before closing in late 2018. Shop Direct cited high operating costs and financial losses as the reason for the closure, resulting in the loss of 10 jobs. The building has remained vacant since.

Following news of the sale, the North Wales Pioneer asked its readers to suggest potential new uses for the premises. Responses ranged from entertainment venues to essential services and retail options.

Several readers proposed leisure facilities, including a bowling alley – suggested by Sarah Lander-Nee Jones and Mick Evans, who also advocated for indoor bowls – and a cinema centre, as proposed by Mihaela Chirita. James Taplin suggested a more niche offering, a “giant Turkish barbers or the UK’s largest vape shop.”

Other suggestions focused on community spaces. Gareth Hughes called for a market hall, while Sharon Thomas envisioned a combination of retail and family entertainment, with Matalan or Farm Foods downstairs and a children’s play area and café upstairs. Phill Comben proposed a Riley’s snooker hall with a bar and sports viewing, referencing the popularity of darts player Luke Littler. Kev Cee suggested a indicate bar with live music and family activities.

Retail options beyond the suggestions of Matalan and Farm Foods included a call for a “decent curry restaurant” and an “Italian restaurant” from Adrian Jones, who suggested transforming the area into a “hospitality mecca.” Deb Lester-Owen simply requested a department store similar to the previous Littlewoods.

More practical suggestions included an indoor farmers’ market (David Rothwell), a health centre and dental surgery with NHS provision (Catherine Lena Dubourg Peterson), and craft stalls and workshops for local artists (Geoffrey Hulme). Dawn Martin proposed a multi-purpose venue combining a bowling alley, bingo hall, laser quest, bar, and American diner, while Pam Rodgers suggested an ice rink.