Anglesey Windmill Owner Repainted 250-Year-Old Grade II Listed Building Without Approval

Anglesey Council has initiated enforcement action against the owner of Melin Llynon windmill after the 250-year-old Grade II listed building was painted in bold red, white, and green stripes without official permission.

The owner, Richard Holt, stated the colours were chosen to celebrate the Urdd Gobaith Cymru's Eisteddfod, which was held on Anglesey. However, such alterations to a listed building require specific consent from the local planning authority, a process that Mr Holt reportedly bypassed.

A spokesperson for Anglesey Council confirmed that an enforcement case has been opened regarding the repainting of Melin Llynon, located near Llanddeusant. Historic buildings are protected under planning regulations to preserve their architectural and historical integrity, meaning any significant changes to their external appearance must be scrutinised and approved.

The council's action underscores the stringent requirements for modifying protected structures, even when intentions are framed as culturally celebratory. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between local cultural expression and the preservation mandates for national heritage assets.