FIRM RESUBMITS BID FOR £70M HOLIDAY SITE ANDWATERPARK

A DEVELOPER has submitted revised plans for a £70million holiday park and commercial units.

Maybrook Investments wants to redevelop the Ferodo and Plas Brereton sites in Caernarfon.

It was revealed in 2019 that Maybrook Investments, run by businessman Peter O’Dowd, had completed the deal to take on derelict mansions Plas Brereton and Plas Ty Coch, which have been empty for several years.

Maybrook wants to build Gwel y Fenai holiday village and waterpark and use the former Ferodo factory building’s steel frame to create commercial units.

Planning was submitted to Gwynedd Council in June 2020, but planners recommended refusal of the scheme last year, citing a raft of issues.

The planning committee agreed with officers and rejected the application last November.

Now the development has been resubmitted to the local authority.

Mr O’Dowd said adjustments had been made following discussions with planners.

He said this could now bring much needed investment at a time of economic uncertainty.

A planning statement from Dewis Architecture said: “The Gwel y Fenai sites will use the former factory building steel frame to create two large commercial units, with the remainder of the former Ferodo site and Plas Brereton sites being developed as a high-end leisure resort for private residents.

“A public car park will be available to non-residents to access the new hub.

“The leisure complex has been designed to be a perfect fit for customers within the Landal GreenParks and Hoseasons brands, and to provide another reason for holidaymakers to explore the unique character this area of Wales has to offer.

“Developer Maybrook Investments Ltd owns both sites, and their commitment to developing them outlines the fact that there certainly is an overriding demand for more top-quality locations with an emphasis on luxury and sustainable tourism in North Wales.

“The proposals include 170 lodges (previously 173), a mix of VIP, Premiere, Standard, Family and Woodland lodges. Thirty eight (previously 51) apartments are proposed over the two sites, including four within the existing Plas Brereton building.

“The new hub will provide a variety of leisure facilities, accessible to all, including a waterpark, bowling facility, kids’ soft play area, restaurant, cafe, fast food, shop, health and wellbeing zone.

“The building will be open to both the public and private residents of the park.

“Maybrook are keen to encourage the connectivity between Caernarfon and the newly proposed Gwel Y Fenai sites along the existing cycle path.

“Residents and the public will have the opportunity to rent bicycles from the two sites to actively encourage the movement in and out of the town.

“The boat house will be renovated into a cafe for the residents and visitors to the sites. The original structure will be retained and minimal changes are proposed for the floorplans and elevations.”

Last time officers recommended it for refusal, saying there is not sufficient information submitted that the proposal would not adversely affect the Welsh language and culture.

They also said it would be an over-development of the site, have a detrimental visual impact on the Anglesey AONB and the local landscape, and had concerns over the access to the holiday site.

In the new application, Dewis states: “The developer has formed a positive link with one of Europe’s leading leisure companies, who are keen to manage the sites.

“With it, they will bring their experience and knowledge of managing successful holiday parks.

£Both sites require a use that is sustainable, provides employment and encourages more visitors to the area.

In order to do this development’s like this are needed to provide much needed holiday accommodation, and in turn facilities for locals to enjoy.”

The application will now be considered again by planners.