Flats plan for former pub is stalled

COUNCILLORS stalled plans to turn a former Blaenau Ffestiniog pub into flats.

Described by developers as “in a poor state of repair” and at risk of severe dereliction unless “urgent” action is taken, planning committee members had been asked to approve plans to turn the former Wynnes Arms in Manod into five one-bedroom apartments.

But despite being recommended for approval by officers, members agreed to delay a decision and visit the site for themselves after concerns were raised by the local councillors.

The Wynnes Arms, which shut its doors in 2017, already has planning permission to be turned into offices and a single home.

But developers believed the latest proposals to be more realistic due to “firm interest”, despite a recent bid to reopen the pub ultimately failing.

Andy Woodward, on behalf of the applicants, told members last Monday that the plans would improve its visual appearance, with the pub currently boarded up at ground level.

“I agree with the (officer’s) report that residential apartments would be more suitable, with no overlooking, no loss of privacy and parking spaces for seven cars,” he said.

“The housing unit states a need for such units. There’s no shortage of houses but such apartments are scarce.”

But Cllr Linda Ann Jones, the councillor for Teigl, said locals had launched a petition against the plans, citing the success of the popular pub in years gone by.

She added: “If the local community had been given the time, they would have gone after the Wynnes as a community hub for Manod, which is truly needed.

“Having spoken to many people, it’s houses that people want, not apartments.

“The Wynnes covers a very small area and has a tiny garden.

“I’m not sure how they intend to fit in the parking spaces as well as spaces for bins and cycles.”

A site visit is expected before the next meeting on March 23.