A MULTI-MILLION-POUND clifftop property in Abersoch will be razed to the ground and replaced by an “out-of-keeping” Grand Designs-type property if controversial plans are approved next week.

The Shanty, a 100-year-old property on the Benar headland, was purchased for approximately £2.2m in 2016.

According to a survey it was the most expensive house sold in Wales that year.

Applicant Nigel Andrews wants to replace it with a “bold, high quality” three-storey house if Gwynedd planners grant him permission.

Although recommended for approval when the county council’s planning committee meets on Monday, the scheme has been criticised by the local community council which believes the site will be “overwhelmed”.

“We object due to over development which will overwhelm the site on a cliff that can be seen from all directions – land and sea – and which is incompatible with the remainder of the surrounding houses,” said Llanengan Community Council in response to the planning consultation.

“The location is also within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Heritage Coast.”

There have also been complaints from local residents who believe the project is “not in keeping with the area” and of “unusual design”.

There have also been calls for The Shanty to be protected as it is a “part of the village’s history”.

However, following deliberations from the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Unit it was decided that although The Shanty dates from the first part of the last century and is “characteristic of its time”, it does “not have a historic or architectural value”.

The unit also notes that the development is “quite substantial”, but “due to the unique design and the choice of materials for the coastal location, it is not considered that it would affect the AONB”.

The property, which would consist of four bedrooms over three floors, will be mainly constructed of glass and Welsh slate, if the project goes ahead.

In a report for the planning committee, the concluding paragraph reads: “Having weighed up the proposal in the context of the relevant policies and the objectors’ arguments, it is considered that the proposal is acceptable for approval.

“The location, density and increase in size are reasonable and the design and materials are an improvement for an open site of this type.

“Bearing in mind that there is already a dwelling on the site, and several other houses on either side of it, there will be no substantial change to the landscape of the AONB or any views of, and across it or any significant substantial impact on the amenities of nearby residents.

“In light of the above, and having given full consideration to all material planning issues, it is considered that this proposal is acceptable.”