Blaenau Ffestiniog residents have voiced their opposition to a planning application for flats to be built on the site of the town’s Market Hall, arguing they would be “of no benefit” to the local community.

Plans have been submitted to turn the town’s Market Hall, a 19th century building notable for being the site of Lloyd George’s first political speech, into 14 sheltered accommodation flats for vulnerable adults.

But this proposal has been met with resistance, with more than 700 people signing a petition to stop the flats from being built.

Many argue the accommodation is simply not needed in the town, and could even harm the community if built.

The dispute has been ongoing since it was first proposed that the Market Hall be replaced by apartments earlier this year.

Local resident Mandy Williams said: “The community here in Blaenau do not agree with this application and have grave concerns; we do not believe this build to be of benefit to locals or the town itself.

“We all agree that there is a need for more social housing here in Blaenau, for local people who are in much need of accommodation. However a development like this does not meet the requirements and could be devastating to Blaenau Ffestiniog.”

Town councillor Mark Thomas said: “I really hope the planning application does not go through. We don’t need any more flats, there are plenty of empty flats in the town already.”

He also expressed concern about an English company building flats and moving residents to a Welsh language stronghold, which he claims could impact the Welsh language and local culture.

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