Plans for ‘hobbit holes’ near Lake Vyrnwy approved

Elgan Hearn, local democracy reporter

Plans for three eco-friendly ‘hobbit holes’ that will be dug into the ground near Lake Vyrnwy have been approved by Powys planners.

Teresa Palmer of Cyfie Farm, which is between Llanfihangel yng Ngwynfa and Pontrobert, has been given the green light for the scheme will also include a shepherd hut, and a converted horsebox, as well as car parking and a septic tank at the site.

She runs an existing five-star tourism business near Lake Vyrnwy and wants to expand accommodation on the site.

In her application, Mrs Palmer, said: “We have spent a considerable amount of time and effort researching various options and how these would fit around our existing business and surroundings.

‘Hidden from view’

“We believe the options we have chosen will not only take advantage of these amazing views across the Vyrnwy Valley but also have the least visual impact on the surroundings.”

Staying at the pods will to “enrich” the visitors’ experience as well as “make them feel at one with nature” according to Nottinghamshire Pods limited.

They said: “These pods will make the most of what Wales has to offer. “The visitors will approach the pods through an existing garden with mature trees and woodland.

“Travelling along winding pathways they will encounter many bird and bat boxes, insect houses and an abundance of flowers, all intended to enrich their experience and make them feel at one with nature.”

“Passing through the gateway into the field, the in-ground pods will be hidden from view.

“As they travel along the path, around the mounded earth the entrance of the pod will gradually be revealed.”

Powys County Council, planning officer Kate Bowen said:  “It is considered that there is ample space so that the existing tourist asset would not be unacceptably harmed, and the recommendation is one of conditional consent.

“Part of the conditions include the need for passing bays for vehicles to be built on the unclassified U2119 road, and improved access to give drivers better visibility while entering and leaving the site.”