Ryan Reynolds’ shock takeover of Wrexham has surprising impact on town
HOLLYWOOD star Ryan Reynolds has triggered a jobs boom in Wrexham following his takeover of the city’s football team.
The Deadpool actor and co-owner Rob McElhenney have been credited with creating a feelgood factor that has seen a surge in investment and employment opportunities.
One property firm has paid £136million for 56 acres at an industrial estate on the back of the celebrity duo’s takeover in February 2021.
Tim Knowles, founder and managing director of FI Real Estate Management, which bought the land, said the two actors had created a real buzz in the North Wales city.
He added: “There’s never been a more exciting time to be in Wrexham than 2023.
“When our peers were looking towards the big cities in the South for development opportunities, we kept our focus on Wrexham.”
Reynolds, 46, and McElhenney, 45, have also been thanked for record sales at a local boozer after buying the National League club, who were denied a historic FA Cup fourth round shock on Sunday when a late equaliser by Championship side Sheffield United pegged them back to 3-3.
The pair have drunk in The Turf, next to the club’s Racecourse Ground, several times — and the pub is featured in their Disney+ series Welcome To Wrexham.
Turf landlord Wayne Jones, 40, said the show had sent thirsty tourists flocking to his bar — with the past three months the busiest he has known in 14 years.
He added: “Wrexham as an economy was going through a bit of a rough time.
“But Rob and Ryan coming in almost two years ago completely transformed the town. It’s thriving.”
Wayne, said his trade has practically doubled thanks to the documentary.
He said: “It’s been seen by millions around the world.”
And more good times could be ahead, with a last 16 tie against Spurs the prize if they win their FA Cup replay.