Alex and Guy Roberts, who have lived in Halkyn, Flintshire, for nearly 50 years, are campaigning for changes to licensing regulations after their lives were severely disrupted by a neighbouring Airbnb. They have initiated a Senedd petition calling for stricter controls on 'party houses,' arguing that many communities across north Wales are being disturbed by excessive noise from holiday rentals late at night.
Specific Complaint: Old Church School
The couple's particular complaint concerns the Old Church School, a £1.6m luxury holiday property in Halkyn that accommodates 24 guests and features a bar, casino, hot tub, and cinema. Since opening in October 2025, visitors have allegedly held parties in the back garden with loud music continuing into the small hours. The couple describe enduring an 'incredibly difficult time' and a 'total invasion of our privacy.'
Petition Details and Wider Concerns
The petition, launched on July 8, has garnered nearly 1,000 signatures, ensuring review by the Senedd's petitions committee. It specifically targets larger visitor accommodation, contending that some 'operate more like private venues than traditional holiday lets.' The petition calls on the Welsh Government's visitor accommodation licensing scheme to grant councils 'clearer powers to set conditions and protect communities,' including noise management plans, limitations on outdoor entertainment areas, and penalties for repeated serious disturbances.
The petition also references concerns about Rhos Sea Manor, a large Airbnb in Rhos on Sea, Conwy, which accommodates up to 34 guests and features an indoor pool, sauna, hot tub, and cave bar. Local councillors have voiced objections to 'late-night noise' at that venue.
Public Reaction and Opposition
When the Roberts publicised their petition online, it triggered comparable complaints from others affected by holiday rentals. One woman commented: 'The council have done nothing for the one near me where six to 10 cars regularly descend on a Friday night for a three-bed house. They don't want to know.' However, not everyone supports additional legislation. Some critics have labelled the petition a 'fun police' measure, noting that holiday let licensing is already being rolled out alongside registration and a visitor levy. One individual suggested that any enhanced licensing should focus on larger holiday lets accommodating six or more guests, warning that the current proposal 'leaves this open to becoming a cash cow for councils.' Another warned the proposal risks being counterproductive, stating: 'Without context you can't ask people to sign an anti-tourist petition which bring so much cash to the area.'
Property Background and Owner Response
Old Church School, built in 1849, was home to a knitwear design and manufacturing enterprise during the 1980s. When acquired by Halkyn Estates Ltd, the firm currently managing the property, it retained its planning designation as a factory site but risked 'falling into disrepair.' A spokesperson for the company has stated they have been working to address residents' concerns, fitting a music cut-off system and encouraging guests to show consideration. Rhos Sea Manor, a former Methodist Church, has been described by guests as 'out of this world,' with one family of 30 calling it the 'perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and fun.'
