In a significant decision impacting the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, four holiday chalets built by John Phillips without the necessary planning permission are set to be demolished. This ruling follows an enforcement notice issued by Swansea Council last November, which instructed Phillips to halt occupancy and dismantle the chalets located in Landimore, overlooking the scenic Loughor Estuary.
Phillips began constructing the chalets in 2022, marketing them through Gower Coast Cabins at rates ranging from £175 to £185 per night. However, his retrospective planning application was denied by the council in July 2023, leading to an enforcement notice mandating their removal.
The planning inspector, Richard Duggan, dismissed both Phillips’ appeals against the enforcement notice and the council’s refusal of the planning application. Although he acknowledged the chalets’ popularity and quality, Duggan stated, “the positive impact on tourism does not outweigh the significant harm caused to the area.” He noted the chalets’ visibility from the coast path compromised the natural landscape, a key feature of the Gower’s protected status.
In his report, Duggan highlighted the chalets’ adverse effects on highway safety, local ecology, and the quality of life for nearby residents. He remarked that the development “has eroded the character of the site to an unacceptable extent,” transforming a tranquil rural area into a commercial space.
Phillips expressed his dissatisfaction with the ruling, labeling it as “totally unfair” and pledging to fight the decision in court. He argued that the chalets were not permanent structures and claimed they provided economic benefits to the local community. “We’ve had tonnes of visitors here, they absolutely love it. The local pubs, restaurants, and takeaways must have seen an increase in business,” he said previously.
In light of the ruling, Swansea Council released a statement reaffirming its stance on the importance of adhering to planning regulations, particularly in protected areas like Gower. “This outcome sends a clear message that anyone considering development should ensure they have the proper permissions in place,” the council noted.
The inspector has granted Phillips an extended timeline, allowing him 12 months for the demolition and restoration of the site, rather than the initially proposed six months. Duggan emphasized the need for time to cancel existing bookings, given the chalets’ high demand.
Despite the inspector’s consideration for a more manageable timeline, Phillips remains determined to contest the decision. The case serves as a pivotal reminder of the necessity for compliance with planning regulations, especially in areas designated for their natural beauty and ecological significance.
