FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Conwy Council Rejects Dilapidated Landmark Building Redevelopment; Appeal Lodged with Planning Inspectorate
Abergele – 23/08/2024 – Maenol Estates Ltd, the owner, and company behind the proposed redevelopment of Oak House (formerly the Vicarage), Groes Lwyd, Abergele, have lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate following Conwy County Council’s recent decision to reject their planning application.
The project aims to convert the former vicarage, more recently used as a business centre, and outbuilding into four modern homes, which would help meet the region’s growing housing needs. The developers are keen to save this beautiful historic building, originally built in the 1850’s as the vicarage to St Michael’s Church, returning it to its former glory, rather than proposing its demolition and the building of new housing.
Despite the comprehensive planning and consultations undertaken by the developers, Conwy Council cited in its rejection “the proposed extension forms an unsympathetic addition that detracts from the historic character and appearance of the outbuilding”, even though in previous correspondence the Conservation Officer had said “The design of the outbuilding has been altered, I have no objections to its design”. Conwy Council also cited a missing Green Infrastructure Statement, which the developers say they were never asked for. The Council’s ruling has been met with disappointment by the developers and by the architect, Edge Architects NW, who argue that the project had been designed to align with both local and national planning policies.
In response to the council’s decision, an appeal has been formally lodged with the Planning Inspectorate. The developers remain committed to engaging with all stakeholders and believe that the Planning Inspectorate will recognise the broader benefits of the project.
David Dean, a Director of Maenol Estates Ltd stated, “We are disappointed with the council’s decision but are hopeful that the Planning Inspectorate will take a different view. Our proposal not only meets the requirements set out in the planning framework but also addresses the critical need for new homes in the region. We have taken every possible step to ensure that the development will be a positive addition to the community, and we look forward to making our case at the appeal.”
Since the planning application process started, some 20 months ago, the building has suffered vandalism and arson attacks and become dilapidated whilst the grounds have been subject to fly tipping.
The appeal process is expected to take several months.
The proposed development, if approved, promises to deliver much-needed housing while also contributing to the local economy, making it an important project for the future of Abergele.
For more information about the proposed development and the situation regarding planning, please visit Maenol.com or contact admin@maenol.com.
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Press enquiries to:
David Dean david@maenol.com T:01745 222 110
Director – Maenol Estates Ltd