A new holiday park proposed for Wern Farm near Menai Bridge on Anglesey has been recommended for approval by local council planners.
The project, spearheaded by site owners Rupert and Bonnie Cunliffe and facilitated by Elfed Williams of Erw Consulting Chartered Surveyors, aims to set up 55 static caravans and lodges, creating a “prestigious” retreat targeting retired professionals.
The development plans also include the conversion of existing outbuildings into a laundry, a reception area, and a site office.
Further construction would see the addition of new onsite roads, a package treatment building, and a designated car parking area. This setup promises to offer a tranquil escape for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of the North West cities, as reported by North Wales Live.
Despite the high quality and strategic planning of the development, local response has been mixed. Councillor Alun Roberts has expressed significant reservations, primarily due to the potential traffic safety issues on the already busy and dangerous local roads.
Roberts also noted the project’s consumption of valuable agricultural land and the area’s lack of sufficient infrastructure, such as public transportation options.
The community’s response has further echoed Roberts’ concerns, with 10 official letters of objection filed against the development. Key issues highlighted include the increase in traffic and associated road safety risks, potential noise disturbances, and the environmental impact on adjacent residential properties.
Additionally, locals argue that the area already hosts a sufficient number of holiday sites, suggesting that another could be excessive.
However, planners are moving forward with a positive recommendation, albeit with conditions. They argue that the site’s location in an open countryside setting makes it a sustainable choice for the proposed development.
A public right of way crossing the site enhances its accessibility, linking it effectively to nearby Llandegfan and Menai Bridge, which could benefit local tourism and economic activity.
The proposed site at Wern Farm represents a significant investment into the local economy, promising to attract a demographic that could boost local businesses and services. Yet, it also poses challenges to the rural community’s landscape and infrastructure, necessitating a careful balance between development and preservation.
As the Anglesey council prepares to make its final decision, the outcome will likely reflect broader trends in regional development, balancing economic benefits against community well-being and environmental sustainability.
The decision will not only affect the immediate area but also set a precedent for how similar developments might be handled in the future on Anglesey.