Chirk: Plans to create ‘unique holiday experience’ in Ceiriog Valley refused

Proposals were put forward in April to build two holiday lodges on land at Tyn Twll in Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog.

The planning application was submitted by the Edwards family who run a farm covering around 1,000 acres at the site.

They said it would provide additional tourist accommodation in Wrexham county borough and contribute to the local economy.

However, the scheme has been refused by planning officials from Wrexham Council after they raised concerns about the impact on the character of the area.

The decision comes despite agents acting on behalf of the Edwards family claiming it would help them to diversify their business.

In a planning statement accompanying the proposals, they said: “Mr and Mrs Edwards are interested in diversification to generate more income and profit to reduce their independence on core primary agriculture.

“Tourism within Wrexham has continued to grow with the likes of National Trust sites, the World Heritage Site at Trevor Basin and local events attracting thousands each year to the area.

“Planning Policy Wales encourages the diversification of farm enterprises and other parts of the rural economy for appropriate tourism uses subject to adequate safeguards for the character and appearance of the countryside, particularly its landscape, biodiversity and local amenity value.

“The proposed development is on the edge of an established wooded area and is set away from the farm.

“The proposed development can be sited and developed without detrimental effect on the surrounding landscape and the existing trees.”

The agents said access to the field where the lodges were proposed to be built would be improved, with parking spaces provided next to the cabins.

However, in refusing the application, officers also said insufficient evidence had been provided to show the proposals would not result in an increase in phosphate levels in the nearby River Dee.