Full Breakdown
Police Raid Historic Plas Glynllifon Mansion for Cannabis Farm
4/11/2026, 7:43:41 AM
Discovery of Cannabis Operation
North Wales Police executed a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant at the historic Plas Glynllifon mansion near Caernarfon on April 7, 2023, following suspicions of cannabis cultivation within the Grade I listed property. Officers discovered a significant cannabis grow operation spread across approximately a dozen rooms on the mansion's top floor. Superintendent Arwel Hughes reported that the plants were fairly mature, and the investigation is expected to continue for several days. No arrests have been made, and the owners of the property have not yet been contacted.
Background of Plas Glynllifon
Plas Glynllifon, built in the 1830s by Lord Newborough, is a neoclassical mansion that once hosted a ball for the investiture of King Charles III when he was the Prince of Wales in 1969. The estate has a rich history, featuring over 100 rooms, including a ballroom and library, and is set within 16 acres of gardens. The mansion has changed ownership multiple times and has fallen into disrepair over the years. In 2020, it entered receivership after an unsuccessful attempt by Paul and Rowena Williams to convert it into a luxury hotel. The property was later acquired by Manchester-based developer David Savage, who listed it for £2 million in 2024.
Investigation Details
During the raid, police noted that electricity and water supplies had been illegally diverted to support the cannabis operation. Superintendent Hughes emphasized the complexity of the investigation, stating, "There's lots of information to process today and lots of forensic work to consider." He expressed confidence that arrests would eventually be made as the investigation unfolds.
Criticism & Opposition
While the police investigation is ongoing, there has been no public dissent regarding the raid itself. However, the mansion's history of failed redevelopment efforts has raised questions about its future and the implications of illegal activities occurring within such a historically significant site.
Official Statements
North Wales Police confirmed the execution of the warrant and requested that the public respect the police cordon around the property. Superintendent Hughes reiterated the importance of the ongoing investigation, stating, "Clearly, the electrics are being manipulated and lots of water supply being diverted inside."
What's Next
As the investigation continues, police are expected to remain at Plas Glynllifon for several days to gather evidence and process information related to the cannabis operation. The future of the mansion remains uncertain, particularly in light of its recent history of failed renovations and the current legal issues surrounding it.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We uncovered a grow, which was on the top floor of the building. We estimate around 12 rooms with grows in them and they were fairly mature plants.” — Superintendent Arwel Hughes, North Wales Police
- “There's lots of information to process today and lots of forensic work to consider, and lots of other digital matter that we are looking at.” — Superintendent Arwel Hughes, North Wales Police
