PLANS to open a 58-person bunkhouse in the heart of Dolgellau have caused an outcry.

Councillors, local businesspeople and residents have also expressed concern about the scheme, which could see the town’s former social services offices converted into a bunkhouse.

The plans, which have been submitted to the Snowdonia National Park Authority, were put before Dolgellau town councillors earlier this month, and they have voted to oppose the scheme.

One of the main issues is that the property will be “unmanned”, raising concerns about “noise and safety” in the town, especially at night.

In a letter of objection sent to the park authority, John Jones, who owns a business next to the proposed bunkhouse, said holiday accommodation for large groups of people would “inevitably” bring additional vehicles to the town.

The town’s narrow streets, lack of parking facilities and potential for “late-night disruption” all worried the business owner, who says he already struggles to find parking for his staff and clients, even without this additional traffic.

Speaking at the town council meeting, Cllr John Raghoobar said: “We already have two bunkhouses in the town, one of which is a source of constant complaints.

“There should at least be a sleeping warden there, as it is in a built-up, residential area.

“A group of 50 to 60 people could make a lot of noise if they are left to run riot.”

Mark Sanders, director of applicant Huge Holiday Homes, said: “Ninety-five per cent plus of our bookings are family reunions where parents, their kids and maybe even their kids can all meet up and relax all together - I don’t want unruly people in my property as much as anyone else.

“Dolgellau isn’t the type of town to attract crazy stag dos or wild parties. It’s going to be full of people who want to use the ziplines or explore the mountains in the area.”

Read the full story in this week’s Meirionnydd edition of the Cambrian News, in shops now