AN APPLICATION to build a ‘bold’ new house in the heart of an area of outstanding natural beauty has been rejected.

Homeowner Nigel Andrews’ bid to demolish his Abersoch bungalow, bought for over £2m in 2016, and replace it with a three-storey modern home has been turned down by planners.

The 100-year-old ‘The Shanty’ on the exclusive Benar Headland was bought in 2016 - making it the most expensive home in Wales that year.

Since the purchase the new owner has been bidding to transform the site - starting with the demolition of ‘The Shanty’ to clear the land.

But despite support from officers at Gwynedd Council, councillors on the planning committee have rejected the proposal following complaints from local residents.

Speaking at a planning meeting earlier this month, the councillors said the scheme was an “over-development” of the site which lies in an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’(AONB).

This is not expected to be the end of the matter, with an appeal by Mr Andrews set to be submitted to the Welsh Government.