In the charming Welsh village of Rossett, where life typically unfolds at a gentle pace, the glitz of Hollywood has met local discontent. Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the high-profile owners of Wrexham AFC, have launched an ambitious initiative to construct a youth academy training facility—but not everyone is welcoming this development with open arms.

The pair’s proposal to create a multi-million-pound facility at Darland High School has sparked outrage among residents, who argue that the project has moved ahead without the necessary planning permissions. The intended site, located within a green wedge, has drawn criticism for its ‘brutal’ design, with detractors calling it an eyesore in the village’s scenic backdrop.

Locals have strongly opposed the two new buildings and shipping containers slated for the area, deeming the design “industrial” and “out of place.” Concerns about noise, increased traffic, and light pollution have only intensified the backlash. Additionally, the presence of great crested newts—a protected species—near the site has complicated matters further.

A summary of the objections submitted to Wrexham Council highlights a common sentiment: the project is perceived as encroaching on community space and disregarding planning regulations. “The council should have halted work until the application was reviewed,” one objection states, reflecting widespread discontent.

This isn’t the first time Ryan Reynolds and McElhenney have encountered the challenges of UK bureaucracy. Their experiences with red tape have been a recurring theme in their popular documentary Welcome to Wrexham. Ryan Reynolds has previously described the process as navigating “a thick buttress of bureaucracy,” while McElhenney humorously noted that the UK is one of the most challenging places to build in the world.

Ryan Reynolds’ familiar battle with bureaucracy

Despite facing challenges, the duo is determined to move forward, aiming to elevate Wrexham AFC’s academy to EFL Category Three status—a crucial step in developing the club’s future talent. The planned facility would feature changing rooms, meeting areas, a medical room, and a gym, providing young athletes with a top-notch environment for their growth.

Not everyone is against the project. Wrexham Council’s chief planning officer, David Fitzsimon, has expressed support for the plans, describing them as an “essential facility for outdoor sport.” Fitzsimon recognized the concerns regarding the green wedge but contended that the development qualifies for exemptions due to its sporting nature. The officer’s report also highlighted that the buildings would be discreetly situated behind the school, reducing their visual impact.

However, the approval comes with conditions—biodiversity measures must be put in place to address environmental concerns. As the council’s planning committee gears up to make its final decision on December 2, the project remains in a delicate position. Will the promise of enhanced sporting facilities outweigh the concerns of local residents, or will the village’s opposition put a stop to Wrexham’s Hollywood-driven aspirations? What do you think? Share below.