Conflict erupts between new owners and locals at Eryri lake

Tensions rise as new property owners clash with locals over lake access.

Controversy erupts over private property sign at Eryri lake

New property owners in North Wales are facing backlash from local residents after they installed a "Private Property" sign at Llyn Geirionydd. The Rothwell family, who bought a historic cottage overlooking the lake, found themselves at odds with inhabitants of nearby Trefriw and Llanrwst, who have enjoyed access to the lake for generations. The sign has led to vandalism and strong reactions from the community, many of whom see it as an infringement on a long-held privilege. Despite their good intentions of wanting to limit littering and illegal camping, the Rothwells are finding it difficult to navigate local sentiment and access issues, exacerbated by a rise in tourism since the pandemic.

This incident highlights the growing tension between property rights and community access in popular tourist spots. The Rothwell family's sign, intended to protect their new home from disruption, has instead ignited a fierce response from locals who feel a sense of ownership over the land due to years of tradition. As tourism increases, questions of how to balance private ownership with public access are becoming increasingly urgent. Complicating matters is the emotional connection many locals have to the lake, seen as a shared resource rather than a private reserve. The Rothwells' experiences may reflect wider issues faced by residents in other tourist-heavy regions.

Highlights

The fate of the Rothwells and their home may hinge on how they engage with the local community moving forward.