COUNCILS have combined their archive services to creating a stronger, more resilient and sustainable service for the region.

The combined Denbighshire Council and Flintshire Council service, which is named North East Wales Archives, came into operation from April 1, initially across their existing two offices – Ruthin and Hawarden.

The long-term plan for the joint service is to move into a new purpose built, environmentally friendly building in Mold, adjacent to Clwyd Theatr Cymru.

Councillor Ian Roberts, leader of Flintshire Council, said: "The merger of the two archive services combined with plans for a new purpose built environmentally friendly building means we are now entering an exciting era for our archive service and our communities can be assured that our rich and varied historical document collections are in safe hands and being used to their full potential."

Councillor Tony Thomas, Denbighshire cabinet lead member for housing and communities, says said: "The creation of North East Wales Archives provides opportunities for the joint service to diversify its visitor base, increase its volunteer numbers, expand its digitalisation activities and outreach activity and in doing so, future proofing the service; ensuring that it remains relevant both now and in the future."

Currently, the joint service is closed to the public and handling enquiries only at this time.

Preparations are being made for the service to reopen later this year that will ensure the safety of our staff, volunteers and visitors.

For more information, follow North East Wales Archives on the following social media channels; Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NorthEastWalesArchives/), Twitter (https://twitter.com/NEWalesArchives) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/northeastwalesarchives).