A proposal to expand an existing camping business in Llanrhyddlad, near Holyhead, has been rejected by Anglesey County Council. The application sought to change the use of agricultural land near the hamlet for the addition of nine seasonal touring caravan pitches and the siting of four glamping pods.
The proposed scheme at the Ty Bugail glamping site also included two retrospective bids: one for a shepherd’s hut and another for toilet and shower facilities on the site. The application was submitted by Mr. and Mrs. Haworth through agents Paul Roberts, Sylfaen Associates Ltd.
A planning support statement portrayed the development as an expansion of an existing venture, highlighting the popularity of the current land utilization and a growing need for touring caravan spaces.
The site, with its tent pitches already in use for up to 28 days in 12 consecutive months, features a small enclosure for farm animals. Tent pitches occupy a limited section of land opposite the application site. Applicants argue that the proposed expansion would have minimal to no visual impact, thanks to the topography and boundary plantings in adjacent fields.
The application described the proposal as a “well-designed scheme” that utilized a “high-quality layout and incorporated landscape” which “integrated well with its surroundings.” It was also believed that the scheme could “offer economic benefits” to the local area and economy, describing it as a “high-quality tourist provision.”
However, in a notice of the planning decision dated May 26, the applicants were informed that the scheme had been refused.
Dewi Francis Jones, the Chief Planning Officer, expressed in a letter that the proposed plans failed to meet the standards of a “high-quality development” and contradicted various planning policies. Additionally, planners regarded the plans as detrimental to the character and visual appeal of the surrounding vicinity, particularly the neighboring Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
The scheme could also have an “adverse impact on the designated Llyn Llygeirian,” a nearby beauty spot and Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The applicants had not provided sufficient information for the disposal of foul drainage, according to the rejection letter. It also mentioned that the development could have an “unacceptable impact on the amenity of immediate residential properties” due to noise and general disturbance.
Concerns included visibility from the A5025, stating that access was “substandard to deal with the development’s traffic movements” and “unsuitable to ensure safe operation of the highway.” Due to the “high-speed nature and configuration of the A5025,” the authority also considered the access would be unable to withstand traffic increase.
In a Facebook post, the campground owner expressed dismay with the council’s decision.
“Even though we had over 500 supports on our planning application, over 650 signatures from locals that support us, a file full of letters of support from all the local shops, pubs, restaurants, and other local businesses we work closely with. THEY REJECTED US,” the post published on Monday reads.
Featured image from Ty Bugail Camping & Glamping.