An Airbnb owner has been compelled to demolish a towering 40ft-high structure resembling a prison watchtower after neighbours persistently complained about guests hosting loud parties week after week. The controversial cabin, described by residents as 'monstrous', was constructed without planning permission at a luxury holiday rental in the coastal Welsh town of Rhos-on-Sea.
Neighbourhood Outcry Over Intrusive Structure
The elevated garden cabin, built at a property charging £5,000 per week, loomed over adjacent gardens, causing significant distress to local families. Neighbours reported feeling like 'zoo animals' due to the overbearing presence of the structure, which they claimed allowed Airbnb guests to party repeatedly on its balcony without any curfew or noise controls.
One resident expressed particular concern, stating the cabin directly overlooked his daughter's bedroom, creating a sense of violation. The situation escalated when Conwy County Council refused to grant retrospective planning permission for the watchtower, a decision upheld by a planning inspector who ordered its removal.
Longstanding Dispute and Eventual Demolition
Despite the ruling, the cabin remained standing for an extended period, prolonging neighbour frustration. Photographs from nearby gardens showed the scaffolding-covered structure perched atop heightened boundary walls, dominating the residential landscape. The property, named Gardd y Llys, is a contemporary four-bedroom home valued at approximately £700,000 and marketed as a luxury retreat.
Owned by Sheffield-based Jim Oates through JAM Domestic Properties Ltd, the holiday let had previously received planning consent in 2016 for a smaller garden building. However, the construction of the larger watchtower was reported to authorities, leading to the enforcement action.
New Application Sparks Fresh Concerns
Following the demolition, the property owners have submitted a fresh planning application for a smaller garden room at the same location. Neighbours fear this new structure could become another 'party cabin', causing persistent disturbance through noise and light pollution in what they describe as a peaceful residential area.
One householder voiced strong opposition, arguing the proposed design would be visually intrusive and risk disrupting families and older residents. Another reiterated the zoo comparison, stating they refuse to live under constant surveillance and disturbance.
Planning Authority's Position
Cadnant Planning, representing the applicants, stated the proposal involves an alternative design to the previously approved structure, seeking to comply with local regulations. A Conwy County Council spokesman confirmed the application seeks consent for a building similar in scale to what was originally permitted, indicating a potential compromise.
The case highlights ongoing tensions between holiday let operators and permanent residents in popular coastal communities, where the rapid growth of short-term rentals can clash with neighbourhood tranquility and planning regulations.
