Derelict building scheme refused
PLANS to turn a derelict abandoned building into a holiday let on the Llŷn Peninsula have been rejected by Gwynedd Council.
Councillors decided to follow officers recommendations to refuse permission for the scheme. The building is located in a spectacular location above the village of Trefor and close to the Wales Coast Path.
The conversion work is also to include a parking space for vehicles and the installation of treatment works.
In a report to councillors, Gwynedd Council officials said the building currently has no roof and what remains of the structure is in a “dilapidated and unused state” and approval would result in a completely new building in the countryside
The application was submitted to the committee at the request of Cllr Aled Jones who represents the Llanaelhaearn ward on Gwynedd Council. Addressing the committee he said the community council supported the application. No letters in support or objecting to the proposal were received he added.
Mr Jones said: “This is an application by a young man, 30 years of age, who was born and raised in the area and who still lives in Trefor. A builder by trade and one who believes strongly in keeping the character of old buildings and bring them back into use rather than allow them to decay and fall into ruins.”
He claimed there were errors in the officers report. The house would not be extended and the roof line would not be raised. Mr Jones said the plans were clear on both points.
Referring to previous planning applications Mr Jones said ‘like for like’ the current plans bore no relation to previous schemes. These were to extend the building whereas this application would maintain the same footprint, he said.
The application is the latest bid for planning permission to convert and extend a former residential dwelling into a selfcontained holiday unit. Officials said applications put forward had been consistently rejected including an appeal to planning inspectors 13 years ago.
Councillors voted 9-2 to reject the proposal with one abstention.