The owners of an award-winning house that was featured on Channel 4's popular television show "Grand Designs" are now seeking emergency planning permission to protect their property from an immediate threat caused by a landslide and coastal erosion. The stunning home, located at Cefn Castell in Criccieth, Gwynedd, Wales, has become endangered after a significant landslip that has compromised the stability of the property's entrance and caused a boundary wall to dangerously overhang the clifftop.
According to planning documents submitted to local authorities, the landslide has created an "immediate threat" to the structural integrity of the entrance to the property. The situation became critical when water from a land drain caused the ground to give way, leaving portions of the boundary wall precariously hanging over the cliff edge. The incident occurred in February 2024, but subsequent investigations have been unable to determine who owns the problematic drain, leaving the issue unresolved for months.
The property in question is not just any ordinary home – it has achieved significant recognition in the architectural world. The house was honored with a prestigious Royal Institute of British Architects award for its outstanding design, acknowledging the innovative and exceptional quality of its construction. Additionally, its appearance on the hit television show "Grand Designs" brought it to national attention, showcasing the remarkable transformation and architectural achievement to millions of viewers across the country.
Beyond its architectural accolades, the property has evolved into much more than a private residence. It has become a notable local landmark and tourist destination, drawing visitors from far and wide who come to admire its unique design and stunning coastal location. The owners have made the property available as a rental accommodation, which has contributed significantly to the local economy by bringing tourism revenue to the Criccieth area and supporting local businesses.
To address the urgent safety concerns and protect the property's future, the owners have submitted detailed proposals for comprehensive cliff stabilization work to Cyngor Gwynedd, the local council. The ambitious engineering project includes several key components designed to secure the cliff face and prevent further erosion. The plan involves driving steel anchors deep into the cliff face to provide structural stability, along with installing wire mesh cages filled with stone to create a robust retaining structure that can withstand the forces of nature.
The proposed stabilization work also includes placing large stones at the base of the cliff, strategically positioned to absorb the energy from incoming waves and prevent continued erosion of the cliff face. These measures represent a comprehensive approach to coastal protection, combining modern engineering techniques with natural materials to create a sustainable solution for the long-term preservation of the property.
The planning application has yet to be formally reviewed and discussed by officials at Cyngor Gwynedd, but the urgency of the situation makes it a priority case. The outcome of this application will determine whether this architecturally significant property can be saved from the ongoing threat of coastal erosion, ensuring that this award-winning example of contemporary design continues to contribute to both the local economy and the architectural heritage of Wales for years to come.
