Historic 19th-century Caernarfon building set to be turned into holiday accommodation

Gareth Wyn Williams, local democracy reporter

A plan to turn one of Caernarfon’s historic buildings into holiday accommodation is being recommended for approval by planning officers.

The former Conservative Club on the town’s Market Street has lain empty for several years, but having also served as a meat market in days gone by, is also set to include shops.

A report that will be presented to Gwynedd Council’s planning committee will recommend approval of Cosgrove Restoration Ltd’s proposals for the largely dilapidated 19th-century building.

But the officers’ recommendation comes despite the opposition of Caernarfon Town Council who claim there is no need for more holiday accommodation but citing a demand for more permanent housing.

Their response to the consultation noted, “(We) object on the grounds that the holiday element would be a type of overdevelopment in the area.

“Also, there is a lack of parking space in the streets opposite and an insufficient attempt has been made in the application to mitigate the impact of cars for another six units on the street.”

‘Divided’

But with developers planning to transform the former social club into six holiday units as well as a pair of shops on the ground floor, planners believe that the application would provide a much needed shot in the arm for a building that’s been deteriorating for some time.

“(There are) large holes in the roof where water has been leaking into the building,” states their report.

“This has caused significant damage to the building, and birds have also used the floors of the building for years.

“There are now no noteworthy features remaining in the building, many of the features disappeared during its use as a social club, and the building can therefore be divided into new units fairly easily without having a detrimental impact on its character.”

Their report goes on to note, “It is felt that the work would be a significant improvement by restoring a building that is very striking within the streetscape and also within the town’s walls.

“In this case it is considered that the work would be a significant improvement and would meet with the requirements of the policies noted.”

The developers’ supporting documents, meanwhile, stated: “As well as restoring such an iconic Caernarfon landmark, Cosgrove Restoration Ltd also aim to support the community by both creating employment for local people and providing accommodation increasing the revenue per annum for the wider local economy.”

A decision is expected when Gwynedd Council’s Planning Committee meets on Monday, November 22.