Welsh Mountain Zoo granted aviary expansion despite green wedge concerns

The Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay was granted planning permission to raise the roof on its existing aviary – despite concerns for green wedge land.

The zoo applied to build up the side “wings” of the aviary, raising the structure’s height so they match the tall, arched middle section.

At a Conwy County Council’s planning committee meeting at the authority’s Coed Pella HQ, members discussed the application, as the zoo sits on council-owned land and within a protected historic parkland.

Cllr Chris Cater said: “The issue here is whether there would be any effect on the designated green wedge.

“I know areas of the zoo are in the green wedge. This is an issue up there, isn’t it, but I notice that the report states quite categorically that it wouldn’t have a harmful impact on the openness of the green wedge. I always look at green wedge designations very seriously, but I think I’m very happy to support this application.”

Cllr Goronwy Edwards proposed the planning committee approve the application.

This was seconded by Cllr Mandy Hawkins, and the vote was unanimously in favour of the plans.

By Richard Evans – Local Democracy Reporter