Leisure complex plan for Oswestry railway buildings

One of Oswestry's historic buildings is to be transformed into a £2 million leisure and entertainment complex, creating 100 new jobs in what the developer calls an "exciting2 project.

The former railway buildings off the Gobowen Road have been bought by hotelier, Stephanie Booth.

Workers will move onto the site, which once housed the Mclarens antiques and interiors centre and Loco restaurant, next week.

The first phase of the complex, a massive indoor play centre, cafe and wine bar, could be up and running by early next year.

The Fantastic Fun House will be one of a chain of children's play centres that will be set up in the region.

Mrs Booth and her husband David, own and run half a dozen hotels across the north Wales border including the Bryn Howell, Wild Pheasant and Chain Bridge in Llangollen.

Railway enthusiasts welcomed news of the development saying it would rescue part of Oswestry's heritage.

The entrepreneur said her passion for industrial heritage was part of the reason for buying the buildings.

"Work starts next week and, if all goes well, the first phase could be open by late January," Mrs Booth said.

"It will mean 100 jobs for Oswestry and something really exciting for the town."

"I am keen to work with the railway project to keep the link with the buildings' fascinating railway heritage."

Cambrian Heritage Railways group chairman, Nigel Davies, said:"It can only be good for the railway and for the town in general."

The building adjoins the new Primary Care Centre.