Carmarthenshire Wilko building demolition dispute

Campaigners and representatives from Buzz Parks protested in Carmarthen to demand that Carmarthenshire County Council pause the planned demolition of the former Wilko building. Buzz Parks proposed leasing the site for 20 years to create a family entertainment centre, featuring a trampoline park, rock climbing, and facilities for children with additional learning needs. Organizers argued the council should re-engage with the firm to secure the investment.

Carmarthenshire County Council has since confirmed its plans to demolish the building to facilitate town centre regeneration. While the council previously scheduled demolition for October 2026, the timeline has shifted to early next year. The council cited condition surveys suggesting the building has reached the end of its usable life, noting that essential maintenance, such as roof repairs, would cost an estimated £1 million.

The demolition project will be fully funded by the Welsh Government through its Transforming Towns Programme, resulting in no cost to the council. While officials are in commercial discussions regarding the future use of the site, no formal agreements have been reached.