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‘It looks like it’s from Star Wars,’ cry locals after huge ‘sci-fi’ sea shell extension is built next to home
People from the area are begging owners to tear it down
LOCALS have been left in fury after a huge "sci-fi" sea shell extension is built next to their homes.
A new futuristic construction has been unveiled next to a historic Grade-II Welsh mansion in Llanbedrog.
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The "sea urchin" structure was built to replace a 1990s conservatory at the Plas Glyn y Weddw arts centre.
The ambitious project transformed the mansion's cafe into a sphere shaped building.
It spans an impressive 11 metres and boasts four-pointed arches - offering views of the coastal and woodland surroundings.
But a wave of criticism has washed over the visionary architectural building.
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The marine-themed extension has ignited a clash of opinions among locals who think it looks like an "eyesore" next to a historic property.
One visitor said: "Who on earth allowed that monstrosity to be built. Totally out of place, pull it down and reinstate conservatory."
Another branded the modern building a "weird incongruous design".
Taking to social media, other locals commented it is "a complete eyesore on this beautiful house."
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One user slammed: "Can't get over the fact they got planning for such an ugly conservatory - totally out of place - more Star Wars."
The innovative conservatory has "barnacle-covered" facade adorned with 89,000 metal shells.
Mark Wray Architects, which was in charge of the project, joined hands with metal sculptor Mathew Sanderson to create the hand-made metallic structures.
However, not everyone agreed with the wave of criticism.
Other visitors who loved the new addition to the building called it a "work of art".
One visitor added: "I was sceptical when I first saw the plans, but now it is completed I find it striking.
"It is a work of art. Art and architecture has always evolved let's hope this will inspire the budding architects of the future."
The sea shell building scooped the 'Little Gem' Award from the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust.
It also scooped a nomination from the Building Beauty Awards last year - including a nomination for the Royal Society of Architects Wales.
Plas Glyn Weddw was first built in 1857 by Elizabeth Jones Parry as a mansion.
It was then transformed into an art gallery before it closed its doors during the Second World War.
The centre was later rescued from ruin by artist Gwyneth ap Tomos turning it into a charitable trust.
Plas Glyn y Weddw arts centre, Mark Wray Architects and Mark Sanderson have been contacted for comment.
It comes as after a rustic home was renovated - with many comparing its new look to a "Premier Inn".
The refurbishment of a charming farmhouse Crabbs Cross, Redditch, Worcestershire, sparked a row.
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Elsewhere, a "metal monstrosity" seating area is set to be torn down after a council order.
The outdoor seating at a beach club in Norfolk failed to get retrospective planning permission after angry locals objected to it.
What are your rights?
Planning permission guidance according to gov.uk
ou will need to request planning permission if you wish to build something new, make a major change to your building or change the use of your building - for example starting a business.
To find out if you need planning permission you should contact your through your council.
If planning permission is refused you can
You are able to appeal if you were refused planning permission for reasons that you think go against the LPA’s development plan or planning policy (you can usually find these on their website).
You can also appeal if you were granted planning permission with conditions you object to - you’ll need to explain why you think they’re unnecessary, unenforceable, vague, unreasonable or irrelevant.
Another ground for appeal is if the LPA has not given you a decision on your application and 8 weeks have passed since the date they told you they’d received it (or a different deadline you agreed with them has passed).
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