For over six decades, the Howatson family has called a unique location home – right in the middle of a busy Welsh roundabout. Descended from a Scottish drover who settled in the Llansannan area, the family purchased a smallholding in 1960 and decided to stay put when the new Denbigh bypass was constructed in the late 1970s. As a result, the roundabout on Rhyl Road was built around their property, where they reside even today.
Chickens roam freely alongside the Howatsons, with road-crossing hens being a common sight. Despite the bustling traffic, the chickens have adapted to their surroundings remarkably well. Second generation resident, Clwyd Howatson, has lived at the property for most of his life, and his son, Tom, initiated a chicken-rearing venture two decades ago. The chickens, mainly kept for eggs and meat, have become accustomed to navigating the roundabout, with only two casualties in the past 20 years.
Navigating the roundabout may seem like a daunting task for the chickens, but they display a remarkable ability to cross the road safely, impressing both residents and motorists alike. Clwyd Howatson, an electrical contractor, shares that living on a roundabout has its challenges, especially when it comes to arranging deliveries and navigating the busy traffic during rush hours. Despite the unconventional location, the family has made the best of it, with their chickens gaining more local fame than themselves.
Visitors to the roundabout home are a regular sight, with Clwyd and his wife welcoming their seven children and grandchildren frequently. The presence of the chickens adds a unique charm to the property, with their ability to navigate the roundabout becoming a local phenomenon. The family’s resilience and adaptability in making the roundabout their home have garnered attention and curiosity from passersby, making their property a distinctive landmark in the area.
Living amidst the noise and traffic of a roundabout poses its challenges, but the Howatson family has embraced their unique living situation. Double glazing helps reduce noise within the property, and the family has found ways to navigate the quirks of living in such an unconventional location. Whether it’s avoiding confusing motorists during peak traffic times or educating delivery drivers on their exact location, the Howatsons have found a way to make their roundabout residence work for them.
The roundabout home has become a symbol of the Howatson family’s resilience and attachment to their land, defying convention and embracing a truly unique lifestyle. With the chickens adding a touch of rural charm to the bustling roundabout, the property stands out as a testament to the family’s determination to hold onto their roots despite the changing landscape around them. Their story serves as a reminder of the strength and adaptability of individuals in adapting to unconventional circumstances, creating a one-of-a-kind living experience in the heart of a busy Welsh roundabout.