A SMALL family business won’t be allowed to open a sauna and “sea dipping” venture in Llandudno.
Conwy ’s licensing committee this week rejected an application proposing to change trading legislation on Dale Road, West Shore, so that the sauna could operate.
Pethi Sauna wanted to run electric sauna sessions from Dale Road Car Park near the Coast Watch Cabin.
But the proposal required a change in the street’s current designation from “prohibited” to “consent”, which would have allowed trading to take place.
The applicants, a local couple with ties to the area, said they wanted to create a quiet, sustainable space for residents and tourists to unwind.
But the licensing committee voted against the plans, fearing disruption in a residential area.
Cllr Stephen Price said he was concerned that changing the road could set a precedent, allowing a “licensed premises or a takeaway” to open on the street in future.
Cllr Hannah Fleet, though, spoke in favour of the venture.
“The place where they want to put it is near the Coast Watch, which is quite a long way from the houses at the far end of the car park,” she said.
“I wouldn’t want to stifle a new business and a tourism attraction in the area. There is a café there already and the model railway there, so it might be something that brings people in, so I would like to see which residents (residents’ opinions) would come out of a consultation.”
She then added the committee could look at other potential future ventures, such as rental bikes or paddleboards, on a case-by-case basis.
She added: “But I wouldn’t like to see a burger van or anything like that, as we already have a successful café there.”
Cllr Fleet then proposed a public consultation was held, but her proposal wasn’t seconded.
Cllr Stephen Price said: “I think that is a big risk, especially in a quiet residential area, and it also sets a precedent in my opinion.
“Dale Road is not just a car park. It is a residential area as well, which has a residential home on that road and a small hotel as well, with a number of private properties, so I would be very, very concerned about granting this.”
Cllr Price then proposed the committee voted against the change in legislation.
This was seconded by Cllr Sharon Doleman, and the vote was won, with three in favour, two against, and one abstention.
