‘Cloud houses’ for tourists could be built into hills near Machynlleth

Plans have been submitted for ‘Cloud Houses’ to be built into a hill on farmland near Machynlleth.

The proposal for the four self-catering holiday units by Peter Canham of Living-Room experiences ltd, would be part of a diversification project at Brynmeurig Farm near Cemmaes.

The site is on hilltop pasture on the southeast side of Moel Eiddew, to the east of Machynlleth. From there visitors would have a view across to Cadair Idris near Dolgellau, and the Dyfi Valley down to the sea.

Last year a proposal for five units was submitted in March 2020, but was withdrawn later in the year.

In a design statement, Peter Canham said that he already works with the family at Brynmeurig on a tree house holiday project that has been operating for nearly a decade.

Mr Canham said:  “It is intended that this proposal will further advance Brynmeurig Farm in diversification.

“As well as bringing extra income into the farm the ‘treehouse’ project has brought many visitors to the area who directly affect the local economy by visiting the local pub, Penrhos Arms, newly opened local shop and café as well as local towns and tourist attractions.

“The proposed Cloud House project will hopefully increase this influence and bring further growth to the area.”

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‘Fit into the landscape’

Peter Canham explains that the aim is to create a site for environmentally sustainable tourism catering for family groups, couples, and individuals, informing them about the environment and countryside of Wales.

Maps and reference books would be provided for visitors so that they can explore the area.

Each Cloud House unit will be buried under the ground with an exposed glazed balcony and they would have an internal combined floor area of 49Msq and 2.4m high.

Mr Canham said: “The Cloud Houses have been designed to fit into the landscape and show how environmentally sustainable structures can be built to provide a comfortable and resource efficient experience.

“We propose to have as little impact on the land as possible. Visitors will arrive at a welcome area and travel on foot to the Cloud House unit.

“This welcome area will also have interpretation of the site, maps and instructions for the visitor. Our vision is to create an exemplar of a catered for sustainable holiday destination in Wales.

“It is hoped that the project will provide an enjoyable, exciting and educational experience for each visitor.”

The plans will be decided by Powys County Council planners at a later date.