A proposal to expand a glamping site in Conwy, Wales, has drawn objections from local authorities and heritage officials.
Mark Rutherford, a resident of Deganwy and owner of Conwy Castle Glamping, has submitted a planning application to Conwy County Council seeking permission to change the use of land north of Bronwen Cottage on Sychnant Pass Road.
The proposal aims to add four additional holiday pods to the existing site, according to Nation.Cymru.
According to the planning statement submitted with the application, the glamping business operates as a quiet, low-impact retreat.
“Conwy Castle Glamping is strictly a ‘quiet site’ where all can enjoy the beautiful, secluded location and amazing views in peace,” said Rutherford in a planning statement.
“Audible music is not allowed. No loud noise is allowed at any time, and there is a strict ‘quiet time’ between 10pm and 8am.” He added that the site prohibits campfires and has not had any noise-related complaints since opening.
Rutherford emphasized the site’s contributions to the local economy and employment, stating that the business already employs several local part-time staff and anticipates more job opportunities as it grows.
“The site is a great showcase for Conwy and a valuable asset for our town, bringing in new guests and tourists, which in turn support all of our businesses,” he said. He described the proposed new pods as making use of “unused land within the development boundary” and noted that the area is “separate and screened from surrounding properties.”
However, Conwy Town Council has formally objected to the expansion, raising concerns that the project constitutes “overdevelopment.” Meanwhile, CADW, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, has requested additional details about the application.
CADW cited the site’s proximity to several historically significant landmarks, including Conwy Castle, Conwy Town Walls, Plas Mawr, and the location of a Medieval King’s Hall and wardrobe on Rosehill Street.
The planning application is expected to be reviewed at an upcoming meeting of the county’s planning committee, which convenes at the Coed Pella offices in Colwyn Bay. A specific date for the hearing has not yet been announced.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, the case highlights the growing tension between rural tourism development and heritage preservation.
It also reflects the importance of engaging with local councils and historic environment agencies early in the planning process to address potential concerns before they escalate into formal objections.