Brakes slammed on Ffestiniog pub’s flats conversion
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Councillors have slammed the brakes on plans to turn a former Blaenau Ffestiniog pub into flats.
Described by developers as “in a poor state of repair” and at risk of severe dereliction unless “urgent” action is taken, planning committee members had been asked to green light plans to turn the former Wynnes Arms in Manod into five apartments
But despite being recommended for approval by officers, members agreed to delay a decision and visit the site for themselves after concerns were raised by the local councillors.
The Wynnes Arms, which shut its doors in 2017, already has planning permission to be turned into offices and a single home.
But developers believed the latest proposals to be more realistic due to “firm interest”, despite a recent bid to reopen the pub ultimately failing.
Andy Woodward, on behalf of the applicants, told members on Monday that the plans would improve its visual appearance, with the pub currently boarded up at ground level.
“I agree with the (officers) report that residential apartments would be more suitable, with no overlooking, no loss of privacy and parking spaces for seven cars,” he said.
“The housing unit states a need for such units. There’s no shortage of houses but such apartments are scarce.”
But Cllr Linda Ann Jones, the councillor for Teigl, said that locals had launched a petition against the plans, citing the success of the Wynnes as a popular pub in years gone by.
She added: “If the local community had been given the time, they would have gone after the Wynnes as a community hub for Manod, which is truly needed.
“Having spoken to many people, it’s houses that people want, not apartments.
“The Wynnes covers a very small area and has a tiny garden. I’m not sure how they intend to fit in the parking spaces as well as spaces for bins and cycles.
“I would urge you (the committee) to go and visit the site for yourself before coming to a decision.”
According to the report, the five apartments would be one bedroom each.
The applicants’ planning statement noted: “Given the ongoing use of the pub
remains beyond challenging, and that little firm interest in taking forward either of the consented schemes for alternative uses has been forthcoming, the process of exploring further alternatives has identified firm interest in acquiring the property to convert it into apartments.
“Consequently, this latest proposal can be seen to be non-speculative and in these regards entirely positive, presenting a genuine way forward to secure a new and viable long term future for the building, through doing so removing the blight and social problems it gives rise to in its current form.”
It’s expected that a site visit will take place before the committee’s next meeting on March 23.
By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter
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