Plans to give a facelift to an old betting shop in Aberaeron have hit a roadblock! The proposal to convert the 1960s flat-roof building, which has seen better days, into a modern home has been denied once again. This former bookie, located just behind the Prince of Wales pub, has stood unused since 2018 and is catching eyes for all the wrong reasons. Despite arguments that its removal could enhance the town’s charming Georgian vibe, the proposal fizzled out primarily due to design concerns and lack of affordable housing agreements.
The design, which involved elevating the structure to add a first-floor extension, sparked worries about how it would stand out among its mostly single-storey neighbours, potentially overshadowing the historical essence of the area. A planning inspector, after a summer site visit, supported the council’s decision, highlighting how the double-height transformation would disrupt the town’s architectural harmony.
Moreover, while the developer expressed a willingness to contribute to the local affordable housing fund, the absence of a solid agreement proved to be another stumbling block. No finalised plan left the offer hanging, stirring disappointment in the community that hoped for a dash of new life to be infused into the area.
In the heart of conservation territory, close to listed gems, it’s clear that any change demands both beauty and balance. What do you think about preserving the old versus embracing the new? Join the conversation!