The SeaQuarium in Rhyl is set to close permanently. A row erupted in the summer between Denbighshire Council and Rhyl SeaQuarium over the impact of the coastal defence works on the animals at the centre.
The essential work taking place on the seafront in Rhyl was forced to stop within 100 metres of the aquarium after it was found that the noise and vibrations were harming the animals.
The popular visitor attraction said it was considering rehoming its resident seals. Denbighshire Council said they had offered to pay for transporting and housing the seals in an alternative temporary home while work on the Central Rhyl Coastal Defences Scheme is carried out.
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SeaQuarium, which has been established in Rhyl for more than 30 years, has now said that the site will close permanently after shutting its doors at 4pm today. The site welcomed 80,000 visitors a year to Rhyl and was a key attraction for the seaside town.
Denbighshire council has been asked to comment. Rhyl SeaQuarium has been asked for a statement.
In an earlier story, a Denbighshire council spokesperson said: “This Flood Defence Project is essential to protect homes, seafront and town centre businesses, and the tourist economy from future flooding events. If this work is not completed, around 600 homes and businesses will continue to be at risk from coastal flooding in central Rhyl. A coastal flood event would have a devastating impact for the people of Rhyl and on the economy of the town.”
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