What is the controversy surrounding the Trefor Sea Stacks in North Wales?

The Trefor Sea Stacks, a series of dramatic rocky formations beneath towering cliffs, are a major draw for the area. Locals and the National Trust argue that the presence of a shipping container café near the stacks is "significantly detrimental" to the largely unspoilt countryside setting.

How has the local council responded to the seaside café in North Wales?

Gwynedd Council has issued an enforcement notice against the shipping container café, stating that it has a major impact on the "character and visual amenity" of the area. The council has also cited issues with traffic chaos and the café's impact on the local Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

What is the stance of the café owners in the Trefor, North Wales dispute?

The owners of the seaside café, Ian and Alice Paice, argue that the café is a mobile structure that is part of their nearby campsite operations. However, the local council disagrees, stating that the container has only been moved once in two years and is not easily relocatable.

Home / Environment / Residents Battle to Tear Down Seaside Café Ruining Coastal Treasure

Residents Battle to Tear Down Seaside Café Ruining Coastal Treasure

13 Nov

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Summary

Enforcement notice issued against shipping container café near popular North Wales beach
Café criticized for ruining stunning coastal views and causing traffic chaos
Owners argue café is mobile and part of wider campsite, but council disagrees

Residents Battle to Tear Down Seaside Café Ruining Coastal Treasure

In November 2025, residents near one of the UK's "untouched" coastal treasures are engaged in a battle to tear down a seaside café that they say ruins the stunning views. An enforcement notice has been issued against a shipping container café located beside a popular beach in North Wales, with critics arguing it is an eyesore that detracts from the area's natural beauty.

The controversial café was set up in the summer of 2024 by Ian and Alice Paice, who operate a nearby campsite. The owners claim the café is a mobile structure that is part of their wider campsite operations, but the local Gwynedd Council disagrees, stating the container has only been moved once in two years and is not easily relocatable.