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A former school building in Llangefni "cherished" by locals is to be converted into a boutique wedding venue. Anglesey County Council's planning committee unanimously welcomed a scheme to repurpose the Canolfan Penrallt building. They agreed to a full application by Jerry Huppert, submitted through agent Arwel Thomas, at a meeting on Wednesday, November 5. The application called for the creation of a 13-bedroom boutique hotel and integrated wedding venue together with alterations and extensions. Built around 1900 the distinctive stone building is located beside the Plas Arthur Leisure Centre. Get the best island stories from our Anglesey newsletter - sent every Friday. Within its grounds is a grade-II listed war memorial commemorating former county school pupils killed in the First World War. Planning officer Gwen Jones said the development plans would "not have a negative impact" on the Conservation Area nor the listed memorial. The school's front elevation was considered "the most important part of the building" and it was "paramount to retain existing features". The wedding venue would cater for up to 200 guests and provide parking for 44 vehicles. The proposal was considered to comply with policies, and was recommended for approval. The officer said: "The Highways Authority is satisfied with access and parking, and the proposal will not impact the nearby listed structure. "The proposal respects the architectural style of the building and will bring an unused building back into use which will be a positive contribution towards the area and Conservation Area." Public speaker Owain Evans said the plan offered a "careful balance between heritage, conservation and economic regeneration". "It aims to breathe new life into one of Llangefni's most recognisable buildings, whilst safeguarding and celebrating its historical character," he said. The war memorial remains "central to this project," he added. Conservation work and interpretation of the memorial would be carried out with the "greatest of respect" to ensure its historical and social significance was recognised and understood. The development would create 30 en-suite bedrooms, accommodating 26 overnight guests. Weddings and bigger events would attract more visitors to the town, boosting local business such as shops, hotels and cafes, the meeting heard. The venue would also encourage guest use of local amenities, and they would work with the Plas Arthur leisure centre. "This is a true example of working with the community for shared benefits," he said. The venue would create "at least" 14 full-time and six part-time roles, and "opportunities" for suppliers, chefs, florists and photographers and building and decorating work would "prioritise" local contractors. He added: "From a heritage perspective, the plan has been designed carefully to respect and improve the historical context of the site. "The original stone structure, its noticeable windows and Dutch style gable will be kept and restored. "The extensions will be proportionate and in keeping, ensuring the character of the building continues to contribute positively to the conservation area. "It will offer a sustainable future for a local landmark cherished by the community, it safeguards the history of Penrallt, creates local jobs, boosts the visitor economy and strengthens the good name of Llangefni as a vibrant and welcoming town." Cllr Geraint ap Ifan Bebb had asked who was responsible for the maintenance of the war memorial, whilst Cllr Dafydd Thomas queried public access to it. The planning officer noted that although the land was in private ownership, people would still be able to see the memorial, as pedestrian access to Plas Arthur would continue. While it was unknown who would be responsible for its upkeep, it was noted it was on private land, but that its listed status gave protection. Cllr Jackie Lewis welcomed the plans, and seconded the proposal. Cllr Lewis said: "It's such a lovely building it is going to be a very beautiful hotel, of course we want to make sure the memorial is looked after." Cllr Ken Hughes said: "Bringing an old building back into use, creating new jobs is something that should be welcomed." Cllr Neville Evans echoed the views, although he called for a Welsh name "in keeping with the area". "We don't want to see something like 'The Ritz' coming to Llangefni," he said. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now .
