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A TV adventurer has divided opinion with plans to build 25 beach huts on a site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in Gwynedd.

Bear Grylls , who also owns St Tudwal’s Island off the coast of Penllŷn, is part of a consortium applying for consent to develop the huts on empty land on Mynydd Tir y Cwmwd in Llanbedrog.

The plans have caused controversy among locals, with some claiming that the proposed development would ruin the tranquility and picturesque scenery of the area.

Critics have described the proposals as “appalling”, “unnecessary” and “ridiculous” on Facebook, while others suggest that the development should be allowed, as there are already beach huts in Abersoch.

The pre-application advice form was submitted by James Nichols, a director of The Llanbedrog Headland Company, alongside the 42-year-old adventurer.

The application, which was submitted to Gwynedd Council on October 21, requests a meeting with officers to discuss the proposals.

In the application, Mr Nichols states: “We wish to hold a pre-application meeting to discuss proposals for beach huts and potential tourism-related schemes at Mynydd Tir y Cwmwd.

“The proposals are at a very early stage of formulation, as we wish to meet with the council to understand its aspirations for the area and discuss the principle of the proposals.

“The headland site is within a SSSI as well as AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). A special area of conservation is located immediately adjacent to the SSSI.

“Given the nature of the unique proposals, as well as landscape and environmental designations relating to the site, we are keen to meet in person to discuss the proposals.”

Peter Brett Associates, the agents acting on behalf of Mr Nichols, said they were unable to comment.

A Gwynedd council spokesperson said: “This is a process undertaken before an applicant decides whether they intend to submit a full planning application.

“As part of the pre-application advice process, planning officers will usually respond by referring to the relevant designations and relevant local and national planning policies.

“They will provide advice regarding the information that would be required if a decision was taken to submit a full planning application, and will advise whether or not the application would likely be in accordance with policies.

“Such advice and information is provided in good faith but without prejudice to the consideration that would be given to a planning application.

“The advice provided does not tie the planning department to a particular outcome, and will require formal consultation with local people, statutory consultees and any other interested party if a formal planning application is submitted.”

This isn’t the first time the TV star has clashed with Gwynedd planners. In 2013, he was forced to remove a steel slide from his private island and had to compromise over plans for a £580,000 harbour at St Tudwal’s West island.

What do you think of the plans? Leave a comment below.