Airbnb host given go-ahead for cabin to replace 'prison watchtower'

A plan to erect a cabin in the garden of an Airbnb property has been approved after councillors reversed a previous decision to reject it.

It follows a long-standing row about a garden room dubbed a "prison watchtower" in Rhos-on-Sea, Conwy, amid fears it could become a "party cabin".

The original structure was built without planning permission and overlooked neighbours' gardens before it was removed following an enforcement order.

After several other refused planning applications, councillors denied permission in March for a smaller "cube-shaped" structure proposed by the same applicant, Jim Oates of JAM Domestic Properties, but have now approved it.

Oates has been asked to comment.

Professional advice was given that the applicant had already had similar planning permission in place from 10 years ago, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Goronwy Edwards, from Conwy council, urged fellow councillors to refuse permission, saying it would have "a very visual impact because of the elevation".

He also described it as "detrimental to the amenity and value of neighbouring residence".

But some councillors were reluctant to back his proposal, fearing a potentially costly planning appeal, the LDRS reported.

During the discussion, one councillor asked whether a condition could be imposed preventing the installation of a hot tub, but officers advised this would not be possible.

The council's planning committee voted in favour of granting permission with eight in favour, three against, and three abstaining.