Local residents are celebrating a major win as the council takes action against a controversial garden structure in Rhos on Sea, likened by many to a “prison watchtower.” This Airbnb construction sprang up without permission back in January 2024, sparking a wave of complaints from neighbours who said it invaded their privacy, offering a direct view into their homes and gardens.
The owner, Jim Oates of JAM Domestic Properties Ltd, was ordered to demolish the “monstrous” structure after his appeal for retrospective consent was denied by Planning and Environment Decisions Wales. Conwy Council has now confirmed that enforcement proceedings will move ahead to ensure the structure is finally removed.
In a statement, the council explained that the developer has a 10-week deadline to dismantle the building. Meanwhile, an application for a reduced-size outbuilding is still under review but won’t delay the enforcement process.
Local resident Nick Whitmore, who’s raised his family next door since 2021, expressed his relief, saying, “We are delighted the ghastly prison watchtower will be demolished after the appeal to extend the removal failed and was dismissed.” However, he also warned that this saga might not be over, noting, “It’s absolutely breath-taking that another planning application has been made and so the merry-go-round continues with no respite for neighbours.”
The planning dispute has caused significant stress among the community, but with the council’s latest move, neighbours hope this chapter will finally close. Let’s cross fingers for some much-needed peace and privacy in Rhos on Sea! 🌿🏡