Denbighshire’s planning committee has reaffirmed its approval for a new glamping site at the former Rhyl Rugby Club, despite prior recommendations against the project.
The decision, first made in February, was revisited in March and received another vote of support from councilors.
The project, led by Cynwyd Enterprises, will repurpose the existing club building and surrounding land into a glamping site featuring nine pods, internal roads, and a new access point.
The approval comes with technical conditions set by planning officers to address concerns about noise, wildlife, and farming impacts.
As part of the redevelopment, the existing clubhouse will undergo significant renovations to include a bar, lounge, function room, games room, spa and treatment facilities, and an office, along with an outdoor decking area.
Speaking at the committee meeting, Cllr Chris Evans acknowledged the engagement between the developers and the community.
“The developer and the owners of the land have engaged with myself, and I’m happy to work with the community to get this done properly,” he said in a report by North Wales Live.
The decision reflects a broader trend of repurposing underutilized properties for tourism and alternative accommodations, a movement that continues to shape the outdoor hospitality sector.
The redevelopment aligns with the growing demand for glamping experiences, particularly in regions where rural landscapes can be leveraged for unique and sustainable hospitality offerings.
However, the project’s future expansions may require additional approvals. Cllr Evans inquired about potential development on the adjacent field, to which planning officer Paul Griffin responded:
“Any deviation or amendment to the plan would need to come before us. Depending on the level of changes, it depends on the type of application. If it was significant, we would need a full application in front of us.”
For outdoor hospitality operators, the approval highlights both the opportunities and regulatory hurdles involved in converting former sports or recreational sites into tourism ventures.
The site’s transformation into a multi-functional hospitality venue offers insights into the growing interest in hybrid facilities that blend accommodations with amenities like dining, entertainment, and wellness services.
As glamping continues to evolve, industry stakeholders will need to navigate planning processes while balancing community concerns and business feasibility.
