‘Vote of confidence’ as major hotel approved

CHAIN LURED TO ‘THRIVING’TOWN WITH HIGH STREET THAT BUCKS THE NATIONAL TREND

THE green light given to a £6m hotel in Porthmadog has been described as a “vote of confidence in the town.”

On Monday, Gwynedd Council’s planning committee unanimously approved proposals to knock down the former tax office and replace it with an 80-bedroom chain hotel.

The development, which is set to create 30 jobs, was given the go-ahead after councillors were convinced of the economic benefits it would bring.

This was despite concerns being raised that the proposed 56 on-site parking spaces would not be enough.

Originally the hotel plans only involved 66 bedrooms, but were later amended by the developers who stated that the newest proposals will be “less prominent” and have a less intrusive visual impact.

Sioned Edwards, speaking on behalf of the applicants, told the meeting in Caernarfon that Premier Inn had been surveying sites in Porthmadog for several years, with the £6m investment set to create new jobs which will support the Welsh language locally.

Adding that there is only one other chain hotel in Porthmadog, she said that they expected the new development to raise the profile of the town and attract more visitors.

There was further general agreement that the development would represent a visual improvement on the approach into town with Ty Moelwyn currently empty after the relocation of the Government’s only Welsh-speaking tax office.

As a result, all 13 members agreed unanimously to follow the recommendation of officers and to grant approval.

Following the meeting, the local councillor said that she looked forward to work starting on the new development.

“Porthmadog is bucking the national trend with a thriving high street, many new businesses as well as long established shops,” said Cllr Nia Jeffreys.

“It was important that I raised local concerns about parking and I hope an arrangement can be reached with the council in regards to validated parking for existing car parks in the town.

“However, I’m pleased to see the new hotel receive planning permission and look forward to see the building work begin.

“It’s a vote of confidence in our town.”