A proposal to establish five glamping pods in the village of Corris, Gwynedd, as part of a local farming family’s diversification efforts was rejected by Gwynedd Council’s planning committee during a meeting held on May 20.
The decision came after concerns were raised about the project’s potential environmental and community impacts within a designated Special Landscape Area (SLA).
The application sought to change the use of land on Pandy fields to support a small-scale holiday accommodation development.
However, planning officers recommended refusal, citing the potential for “a substantial detrimental impact on the amenities of local property owners in terms of more activities, disturbance and noise.”
They also highlighted concerns regarding the establishment of a permanent alternative camping option within an SLA.
Local residents voiced objections centered on light and noise pollution, increased foot traffic, perceived risks to biodiversity, and changes to the area’s character.
One resident, living near the Dulas river where otters and owls are frequently observed, described the area as a place of “peace and tranquillity” and expressed concern over a “substantial impact” on her household’s “well-being and way of life.”
She cited worries about loss of privacy, noise, light pollution, and unfamiliar people walking near her property.
Despite opposition, several councillors spoke in favor of the proposal. Cllr John Pughe Roberts challenged the claimed impact, noting the existing public footpath and screening vegetation.
He also questioned how the SLA designation might limit local farmers’ future development prospects.
“More and more young people are leaving Gwynedd in their droves, more than anywhere else, due to the need to be able to make a living,” he said to Cambiran News after the meeting. “Soon there will be no young Welsh speakers left.”
Cllr Louise Hughes proposed approval, seconded by Cllr Gruff Williams, who emphasized the necessity for farmers to diversify. Cllr Gareth Jones also supported the plan, calling it “a perfect example of sustainable tourism.”
However, Cllr Berwyn Parry Jones opposed the development, arguing it would compromise the natural landscape. Planning manager Gareth Jones noted that similar applications had been previously denied and cautioned that any approval would necessitate further deliberation.
A motion to approve the development failed with five votes in favor and eight against. A subsequent vote to formally refuse the application passed with seven votes in favor and six against.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality industry, the outcome underscores the growing scrutiny surrounding tourism developments in protected or sensitive areas.
While rural diversification remains a common strategy for landowners and farmers, this case illustrates the complex balance between economic opportunity and environmental or community concerns.
Operators exploring glamping or nature-based accommodations may need to navigate stringent planning policies, particularly in designated landscapes, and should engage early with local stakeholders to mitigate resistance and align proposals with broader land use objectives.