Locals Outraged as "Perfect" Fixer-Upper Cottage is Reserved for Holidaymakers

Residents of Anglesey, Wales, are expressing outrage after a charming stone cottage, deemed a "perfect" fixer-upper, was designated for holiday accommodation only, effectively barring locals from purchasing it. The 150-year-old cottage, known as Gors y Twr ("marsh of the tower"), sits on a prime spot on the island and boasts a sizable plot, yard, and attached barn. Despite its semi-derelict state, including a gaping hole in the roof, it was listed for £175,000.

The controversy stems from national planning policies that prioritize the conversion of traditional rural buildings for economic use, including tourism. While the cottage has been approved for development into a three-bedroom home, it cannot be used as a primary residence. This decision has sparked frustration among locals who feel priced out of the market and denied the opportunity to own a home in their own community.

Locals point to the significant rise in house prices on the island, with the average price in the village of Rhosneigr jumping from £50,836 to £679,000 in the past 30 years. This surge, coupled with the increasing number of holiday homes, is creating a divide between residents and visitors, with some locals feeling like they are being pushed out of their own communities.

The situation has sparked calls for a review of national planning policies, with residents urging authorities to prioritize the needs of local communities over tourism interests. The council, however, maintains that economic use is favored for such conversions, and has implemented a separate housing strategy to support first-time and struggling buyers.

The debate highlights the complex issue of balancing economic development with the needs of local communities, particularly in areas experiencing rapid growth in tourism. As the demand for holiday accommodation rises, finding a way to ensure that local residents have access to affordable housing remains a critical challenge.