Caulmert’s planning proficiency has paved the way for upgrades to a Grade II listed 19th-century hotel in Llandderfel, North Wales.
The consultancy has helped five-star luxury hotel Palé Hall secure Listed Building Consent from Gwynedd County Council.
The approved plans include a single-storey glazed extension to the rear of its fine-dining restaurant, creating additional space to accommodate increasing guest numbers.
Securing consent required overcoming several heritage and environmental challenges during a planning process that began in January 2025.
One key issue centred on the Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA), which was initially opposed by the county ecologist. Following revisions, the assessment was accepted after concluding the proposals would have no adverse effect on the River Dee Special Area of Conservation (SAC) or the relevant Special Protection Area (SPA).
Caulmert also worked closely with Hughes Architects to revise the mandatory Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA), ensuring it satisfied Cadw’s requirements.
To achieve an extension that complements the historic building, the quality of the proposed materials will be carefully assessed, with ongoing consultation between the Local Planning Authority (LPA) and Cadw throughout construction.
Caulmert director of planning Steve Ottewell said: “It’s fantastic to finally reach this milestone.
“For someone who’s spent recent years a little further removed from day‑to‑day planning, it was genuinely motivating to join Caulmert to ‘get back on the tools’ for moments like this.
“Working with Hughes Architects, we’ve developed proposals that carefully balance the hotel’s future needs with the protection of its historic character.
“With Listed Building Consent now secured, we will continue to advise on wider projects across the site, including potential shepherd huts.”
Hughes Architects managing director Doug Hughes said: “It’s a project I’m immensely proud of, and one that will make a real difference to the hotel’s future. Huge thanks to Gwynedd County Council and Cadw for their collaboration and confidence in the vision.”
Palé Hall was originally built as a country house between 1869-71 for railway engineer Henry Robertson. Since then, it has welcomed guests including Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill.
