Plans are underway to construct a café and visitor centre at Moel Famau, one of the most popular mountains in Wales. With an elevation of 554 metres, Moel Famau may be half the height of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), but its proximity to urban areas like Chester and Liverpool draws in hikers and day-trippers, resulting in bustling paths, especially during weekends. The proposal aims to enhance the experience for the 300,000 annual visitors who frequent the site, as reported by North Wales Live.
Denbighshire County Council is backing the initiative to build a Nordic-style visitor hub at the upper Bwlch Pen Barras car park. The hub is envisioned to provide amenities such as food and beverages, restrooms, a ranger’s office, and outdoor seating for walkers. TACP Architects, in their planning application, highlighted the region’s potential for growth in outdoor activities, emphasizing that the development will make Moel Famau more accessible by offering facilities and interpreting the local area for visitors.
The architects further noted that these enhancements are crucial to manage increasing visitor numbers effectively and meet changing visitor expectations. Currently, Moel Famau’s primary car park offers basic facilities like picnic benches and information boards but lacks significant infrastructure. The proposed project includes constructing accessible pathways around the new building to enhance connectivity with Moel Famau’s main route.
Funding for the development is expected to come from the UK Government’s Levelling Up fund, with Denbighshire allocated £10.95 million, part of which will benefit rural communities near Moel Famau. If approved, construction could commence early next year, with a target completion date set for autumn 2025. This initiative is poised to elevate the visitor experience at Moel Famau and create a welcoming space for all who enjoy exploring the mountainous terrain.