MORE than 2,500 people have signed a petition to calling for Conwy council to ensure that Rhos-on-Sea continues to have kiosks on its promenade.

The petition follows publication of plans by Conwy County Borough Council the seafront kiosks as part of a scheme to widen the promenade for cyclists and pedestrians.

The council said the "existing outdated kiosks" would be replaced, however as yet there are no clear plan for the replacement of the kiosks.

The plans have put businesses operating from the kiosks in jeopardy, including that of petition founder Moussa Salem, who has been operating a family run refreshments business from The Cayley kiosk on the promenade for more than two decades.

The business provides an income for Mr Salem and his family and also employs two members of staff all year round.

"Conwy County are going to demolish the kiosks along Rhos Promenade without offering any alternatives," he said. "This will put people out of work and destroy livelihoods.

"Also, the Cayley Kiosk provides a social lifeline for quite a number of people who live locally and meet and socialise 364 days of the year."

Clwyd West MS Darren Millar, who has voiced his opposition to the kiosk plans, met with Moussa Salem this week.

“It’s scandalous that a thriving business which is loved by thousands and offers employment and an income for local people is being put at risk in this way," Mr Millar said.

“Moussa’s business has never been so busy as t has been in recent years and it has been a lifeline for people during the pandemic.

“The demolition of the kiosk will have a devastating impact on Moussa and his family and those they employ and it will also leave a big hole on the promenade and what it has to offer for locals and visitors alike.

“The fact that more than 2,500 people have signed a petition calling for the kiosks on the promenade to be saved shows the strength of feeling and affection that people have towards Moussa and his staff, and the amenity they provide.

“I will continue to work with Moussa in the hope that the local authority will listen and amend their proposals.”

The council held a consultation over the plans for Rhos-on-Sea promenade at the start of October, with a planning application expected to be submitted over the coming months.

The proposals include importing approximately one million tonnes of sand to protect the seawall and a new, extended rock groyne.

At the same time, the council is looking at widening the promenade to make more space for pedestrians and cyclists, and providing new lighting, seating, shelters and recreation options.

A council spokesperson said: "Petitions are one way in which people can let us know their concerns, and petitions are taken seriously by council officers and members as a measure of local interest in a given matter. 

"The public consultation about Rhos on Sea coastal defence and promenade improvements closed on 17 October after being extended due to the high level of public interest.

"The necessary space and utilities for replacement kiosks were included in the proposals and we encouraged everyone to submit their views. 

"We are grateful to everyone who has contributed – we are reviewing the feedback and we will take all views into consideration."