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North Wales Chronicle
7 days ago
- General
- North Wales Chronicle
Anglesey: Bid for 'ancillary annexe' in Moelfre approved
Anglesey Council's planning committee approved plans for an ancillary annexe to The Old Crown building in Moelfre during a meeting on Wednesday, June 4. The application, lodged by Kiran Purewal, was brought to the committee at the request of the local member Cllr Margaret Murley Roberts. It was felt the development would have a 'negative visual impact' on the picturesque area. Plan for the existing dwelling was a two-storey terraced property within the development boundary of Moelfre in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Planning officer Rhys Jones said the proposal consisted of erecting an ancillary annexe to its rear. MORE NEWS: Incredible photos as imposing 55-metre-long ship with six decks docks in Caernarfon Anglesey man had sex with woman in public toilet and threatened to kill her partner Drink-driving Gwynedd trainee GP allowed back to work after suspension It was situated in an elevated position at the top of the site adjacent to Lon Ty Powdr overlooking the Moelfre coast. Planners considered it met policy, as it was a smaller, improved proposal to that of a previous, larger application which had permission on the site, and they recommended it be approved. A report said the application had resulted in 32 letters being received. The objections 'were all similar in relation to what concerned the local people of Moelfre,' it had noted. They included the 'negative visual impact on the landscape, traffic and parking, drainage, second homes/holiday let uncertainty, and structurally a weak foundation base'. They had 'emphasised' how erecting a new building would 'significantly impact the overall panorama and aesthetics of the landscape' and 'destroy the character and quality of the village scene presenting an overbearing and visually intrusive element'. Objectors added: 'The design would be unsympathetic and harmful to the appearance and character of the village.' They also felt the design and scale of the annexe would be 'out of keeping' with the main dwelling and surrounding properties. Concerns that the annexe 'should not be sold separately to the main dwelling' and that 'second homes and holiday lets are a big issue in Moelfre,' had also been noted. Cllr Euryn Morris read out Cllr Murley-Roberts' comments, on behalf of the community council. He also spoke for himself, and Cllr Ieuan Williams. Among comments raised, it was felt the annexe would 'change the image of the village'. He said the Old Crown Building was 'an iconic building' which featured on postcards and pictures and they were 'ignoring the importance of historical buildings' which 'could have a detrimental effect on the area'. The impact on neighbours was also highlighted, and the effect of a concrete lorry accessing the property, via a 'horse and cart' road. There was also a query over the need for an annexe. 'The last thing Moelfre needs is more holiday lets,' he said. The planning officer said permission existed already for an annexe and the principal of development had been 'safeguarded'. It was smaller than what was already permitted, and the plan was considered an 'improvement,' of modern build, with 'smart windows'. He agreed it was 'a picturesque area' and important to protect, but reiterated planning permission already existed. Lon Pwdwr was narrow, but no issues were raised by highways, and until the council adopted Article 4, its potential future use as holiday accommodation was not material to the application. An Article 4 Direction is a planning tool which can remove or restrict permitted development rights on houses. It has recently been adopted by Cyngor Gwynedd, to control the use of houses as second homes and holiday lets. Councillor Robin Williams noted that Cllr Murley-Roberts had called the matter in after community council concerns, but queried why there was no response received. He urged all community councils to raise issues if they had them. Describing the plan as 'the lesser of two evils' he added: 'I can't see any reason to refuse this, due to the existing planning permission from 2013.' He added that he 'respected' comments raised. 'Without the fall back situation of the permission, it would be different,' he added. Following a vote, the application was passed.
North Wales Live
05-06-2025
- General
- North Wales Live
Annexe plan 'lesser of two evils' for 'picture postcard' Anglesey village
Plans to build an annexe in a "picture postcard" Anglesey village have been approved after being described as "the lesser of two evils". Anglesey Council's planning committee approved plans for an ancillary annexe to The Old Crown building in Moelfre during a meeting on Wednesday, June 4. The application, lodged by Kiran Purewal, was brought to the committee at the request of the local member Cllr Margaret Murley Roberts. It was felt the development would have a "negative visual impact" on the picturesque area. Get the best island stories from our Anglesey newsletter - sent every Friday The existing dwelling was a two-storey terraced property within the development boundary of Moelfre in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Planning officer Rhys Jones said the proposal consisted of erecting an ancillary annexe to its rear. It was situated in an elevated position at the top of the site adjacent to Lon Ty Powdr overlooking the Moelfre coast. Planners considered it met policy, as it was a smaller, improved proposal to that of a previous, larger application which had permission on the site, and they recommended it be approved. A report said the application had resulted in 32 letters being received. The objections "were all similar in relation to what concerned the local people of Moelfre," it had noted. They included the "negative visual impact on the landscape, traffic and parking, drainage, second homes/holiday let uncertainty, and structurally a weak foundation base". They had "emphasised" how erecting a new building would "significantly impact the overall panorama and aesthetics of the landscape" and "destroy the character and quality of the village scene presenting an overbearing and visually intrusive element". Objectors added: "The design would be unsympathetic and harmful to the appearance and character of the village." They also felt the design and scale of the annexe would be "out of keeping" with the main dwelling and surrounding properties. Concerns that the annexe "should not be sold separately to the main dwelling" and that "second homes and holiday lets are a big issue in Moelfre," had also been noted. Cllr Euryn Morris read out Cllr Murley-Roberts' comments, on behalf of the community council. He also spoke for himself, and Cllr Ieuan Williams. Among comments raised, it was felt the annexe would "change the image of the village". He said the Old Crown Building was "an iconic building" which featured on postcards and pictures and they were "ignoring the importance of historical buildings" which "could have a detrimental effect on the area". The impact on neighbours was also highlighted, and the effect of a concrete lorry accessing the property, via a "horse and cart" road. There was also a query over the need for an annexe. "The last thing Moelfre needs is more holiday lets," he said. The planning officer said permission existed already for an annexe and the principal of development had been "safeguarded". It was smaller than what was already permitted, and the plan was considered an "improvement," of modern build, with "smart windows". He agreed it was "a picturesque area" and important to protect, but reiterated planning permission already existed. Lon Pwdwr was narrow, but no issues were raised by highways, and until the council adopted Article 4, its potential future use as holiday accommodation was not material to the application. An Article 4 Direction is a planning tool which can remove or restrict permitted development rights on houses. It has recently been adopted by Cyngor Gwynedd, to control the use of houses as second homes and holiday lets. Councillor Robin Williams noted that Cllr Murley-Roberts had called the matter in after community council concerns, but queried why there was no response received. He urged all community councils to raise issues if they had them. Describing the plan as "the lesser of two evils" he added: "I can't see any reason to refuse this, due to the existing planning permission from 2013." He added that he "respected" comments raised.
Wales Online
05-06-2025
- General
- Wales Online
Annexe plan 'lesser of two evils' for 'picture postcard' Anglesey village
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Plans to build an annexe in a "picture postcard" Anglesey village have been approved after being described as "the lesser of two evils". Anglesey Council's planning committee approved plans for an ancillary annexe to The Old Crown building in Moelfre during a meeting on Wednesday, June 4. The application, lodged by Kiran Purewal, was brought to the committee at the request of the local member Cllr Margaret Murley Roberts. It was felt the development would have a "negative visual impact" on the picturesque area. Get the best island stories from our Anglesey newsletter - sent every Friday The existing dwelling was a two-storey terraced property within the development boundary of Moelfre in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Planning officer Rhys Jones said the proposal consisted of erecting an ancillary annexe to its rear. It was situated in an elevated position at the top of the site adjacent to Lon Ty Powdr overlooking the Moelfre coast. Planners considered it met policy, as it was a smaller, improved proposal to that of a previous, larger application which had permission on the site, and they recommended it be approved. (Image: IoACC planning docs) A report said the application had resulted in 32 letters being received. The objections "were all similar in relation to what concerned the local people of Moelfre," it had noted. They included the "negative visual impact on the landscape, traffic and parking, drainage, second homes/holiday let uncertainty, and structurally a weak foundation base". They had "emphasised" how erecting a new building would "significantly impact the overall panorama and aesthetics of the landscape" and "destroy the character and quality of the village scene presenting an overbearing and visually intrusive element". Objectors added: "The design would be unsympathetic and harmful to the appearance and character of the village." They also felt the design and scale of the annexe would be "out of keeping" with the main dwelling and surrounding properties. Concerns that the annexe "should not be sold separately to the main dwelling" and that "second homes and holiday lets are a big issue in Moelfre," had also been noted. Cllr Euryn Morris read out Cllr Murley-Roberts' comments, on behalf of the community council. He also spoke for himself, and Cllr Ieuan Williams. Among comments raised, it was felt the annexe would "change the image of the village". He said the Old Crown Building was "an iconic building" which featured on postcards and pictures and they were "ignoring the importance of historical buildings" which "could have a detrimental effect on the area". The impact on neighbours was also highlighted, and the effect of a concrete lorry accessing the property, via a "horse and cart" road. There was also a query over the need for an annexe. "The last thing Moelfre needs is more holiday lets," he said. The planning officer said permission existed already for an annexe and the principal of development had been "safeguarded". It was smaller than what was already permitted, and the plan was considered an "improvement," of modern build, with "smart windows". He agreed it was "a picturesque area" and important to protect, but reiterated planning permission already existed. Lon Pwdwr was narrow, but no issues were raised by highways, and until the council adopted Article 4, its potential future use as holiday accommodation was not material to the application. An Article 4 Direction is a planning tool which can remove or restrict permitted development rights on houses. It has recently been adopted by Cyngor Gwynedd, to control the use of houses as second homes and holiday lets. Councillor Robin Williams noted that Cllr Murley-Roberts had called the matter in after community council concerns, but queried why there was no response received. He urged all community councils to raise issues if they had them. Describing the plan as "the lesser of two evils" he added: "I can't see any reason to refuse this, due to the existing planning permission from 2013." He added that he "respected" comments raised. "Without the fall back situation of the permission, it would be different," he added. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
North Wales Live
28-05-2025
- Automotive
- North Wales Live
'We'll be ready' warning with parking lockdowns to continue at popular North Wales beach
A parking lockdown trial at a popular Anglesey beach is to be extended through the summer. The measure was first implemented over the Bank Holiday weekend in an attempt to ease congestion in Newborough. To prevent long traffic queues forming for Traeth Llanddwyn, which often back up into the village, site manager Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has begun closing the large beach car park when full. All beach-bound traffic is then diverted until the car park is reopened later in the day. Poor weather last weekend meant traffic flows were lower than expected and the beach car park was closed just once. As well as leaving some visitors bewildered, Newborough residents said there were already signs the measure was creating 'unintended consequences'. With beach parking prices now doubled, up to £15 for a day visit, local people claimed the combined impact was to shift parking away from the beach and onto local roads and residential streets. Despite reduced visitor numbers, Newborough housing estates like Tyn y Cae and Rhoddfa Merrick were reported to be as busy as ever. Last weekend, Anglesey Council traffic wardens issued three parking tickets, all on the A4080 by Llyn Parc Mawr in Newborough Forest north of the village. Meanwhile, residents near Llangefni fear redirected traffic is heading to Llyn Cefni instead, causing problems there. Regular day-trippers from Gwynedd have also complained of being "punished" for over-tourism by being priced out of visits to the beach. In principle, NRW's measures have been welcomed by Newborough's long-suffering residents, who often struggle to leave their homes, or return to them, when the village is gridlocked. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone NRW said the parking lockdown trial is due to continue 'until further notice' during busy periods – mainly sunny weekends. It may be fine-turned based on local feedback. An NRW spokesperson said: 'The trial had been discussed with the local community and stakeholders before being introduced. "Initial feedback has been positive, and we will repeat the trial before reviewing evidence and speaking to the local community before making a decision on wider implementation. 'We also had staff on site over the weekend who prevented a number of people from camping overnight. We would also like to thank the local residents who were handing out leaflets to motorists when the car park was closed promoting other sites on the island.' Last weekend's parking measures were earmarked for three days. Due to lower-than-expected holiday traffic, Llanddwyn's beach car was shut down only on Sunday, May 25, with cars allowed back in after 3.30pm. On the approach to the village at Pen-lôn roundabout, an electronic sign advised motorists the car park was 'full' and to go elsewhere. By 1.30pm that day, local walkers reported the 300-space car park was 'only half full'. By 3.30pm, they counted just 28 cars. A baffled visitor noticed the same and wondered if some kind of emergency had been declared. Another, from South Wales, added online: 'At 14:00 there was absolutely no reason for the road to be closed as there were plenty of spaces - literally half empty. There are more intelligent ways to manage car parks and it's only going to move the problem elsewhere.' That's the worry at Llyn Cefni, Anglesey's second largest reservoir with walking trails and a nature reserve. One site guardian fears it could be the next 'over-tourism hellhole' if Llanddwyn's visitors head there instead. Recreational activities on the lake are banned but site custodians have complained of plastic waste littering and parking on 'dangerous' road sections. 'In other words, a direct transplant from Llanddwyn,' said a local man on social media. 'We'll certainly be ready for any nonsense that develops over the summer. There are plenty of locals 'on patrol' on dog walks at all times of day, so a new Llanddwyn this is very definitely not going to become. 'The authorities are clueless and have no excuse because over-tourism has been extensively written about in the academic press for decades by now.' Get the best island stories from our Anglesey newsletter - sent every Friday
Wales Online
28-05-2025
- Automotive
- Wales Online
'We'll be ready' warning with parking lockdowns to continue at popular North Wales beach
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info A parking lockdown trial at a popular Anglesey beach is to be extended through the summer. The measure was first implemented over the Bank Holiday weekend in an attempt to ease congestion in Newborough. To prevent long traffic queues forming for Traeth Llanddwyn, which often back up into the village, site manager Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has begun closing the large beach car park when full. All beach-bound traffic is then diverted until the car park is reopened later in the day. Poor weather last weekend meant traffic flows were lower than expected and the beach car park was closed just once. As well as leaving some visitors bewildered, Newborough residents said there were already signs the measure was creating 'unintended consequences'. With beach parking prices now doubled, up to £15 for a day visit, local people claimed the combined impact was to shift parking away from the beach and onto local roads and residential streets. Despite reduced visitor numbers, Newborough housing estates like Tyn y Cae and Rhoddfa Merrick were reported to be as busy as ever. Last weekend, Anglesey Council traffic wardens issued three parking tickets, all on the A4080 by Llyn Parc Mawr in Newborough Forest north of the village. Meanwhile, residents near Llangefni fear redirected traffic is heading to Llyn Cefni instead, causing problems there. Regular day-trippers from Gwynedd have also complained of being "punished" for over-tourism by being priced out of visits to the beach. In principle, NRW's measures have been welcomed by Newborough's long-suffering residents, who often struggle to leave their homes, or return to them, when the village is gridlocked. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone (Image: Llanddwyn & Forest Support Group) NRW said the parking lockdown trial is due to continue 'until further notice' during busy periods – mainly sunny weekends. It may be fine-turned based on local feedback. An NRW spokesperson said: 'The trial had been discussed with the local community and stakeholders before being introduced. "Initial feedback has been positive, and we will repeat the trial before reviewing evidence and speaking to the local community before making a decision on wider implementation. 'We also had staff on site over the weekend who prevented a number of people from camping overnight. We would also like to thank the local residents who were handing out leaflets to motorists when the car park was closed promoting other sites on the island.' (Image: Steve Fareham/Wiki) Last weekend's parking measures were earmarked for three days. Due to lower-than-expected holiday traffic, Llanddwyn's beach car was shut down only on Sunday, May 25, with cars allowed back in after 3.30pm. On the approach to the village at Pen-lôn roundabout, an electronic sign advised motorists the car park was 'full' and to go elsewhere. By 1.30pm that day, local walkers reported the 300-space car park was 'only half full'. By 3.30pm, they counted just 28 cars. A baffled visitor noticed the same and wondered if some kind of emergency had been declared. Another, from South Wales, added online: 'At 14:00 there was absolutely no reason for the road to be closed as there were plenty of spaces - literally half empty. There are more intelligent ways to manage car parks and it's only going to move the problem elsewhere.' (Image: Eryl Crump/North Wales Live) That's the worry at Llyn Cefni, Anglesey's second largest reservoir with walking trails and a nature reserve. One site guardian fears it could be the next 'over-tourism hellhole' if Llanddwyn's visitors head there instead. Recreational activities on the lake are banned but site custodians have complained of plastic waste littering and parking on 'dangerous' road sections. 'In other words, a direct transplant from Llanddwyn,' said a local man on social media. 'We'll certainly be ready for any nonsense that develops over the summer. There are plenty of locals 'on patrol' on dog walks at all times of day, so a new Llanddwyn this is very definitely not going to become. 'The authorities are clueless and have no excuse because over-tourism has been extensively written about in the academic press for decades by now.' Get the best island stories from our Anglesey newsletter - sent every Friday See what's on in your area
