Aberhod redevelopment allowed on appeal

An application to redevelop the former restaurant and bar at Aberhod Old Hall, Rhos on Sea was submitted to Conwy County Borough Council. This was a scheme to redevelop the site for residential purposes but the main historic features of the building were being preserved following detailed discussions with the Council's Conservation Officer. The Architects scheme was generally welcomed by the planning officers, but there were objections on the purported loss of an 'employment' site and a facility for meetings, weddings, receptions etc. After lengthy delays the applicant decided to appeal against non-determination and an Informal Hearing was held on 25 January 2012. In spite of considerable objections from local Councillors who attended the Hearing the appeal was allowed as the Inspector quite rightly analysed the facts and concluded there was no prospect in this economic climate, of securing an 'employment' re-use after a period of marketing had revealed no interest.