Prince Charles described the cafe as Wales's 'highest slum'

After failing earlier this year to raise �5m needed to replace the building, the Snowdonia Park Authority spearheaded a renovation plan.

In partnership with a range of other bodies, they commissioned consultants to come up with a feasability plan for its refurbishment.

In a meeting in Penrhyndeudraeth on Wednesday members of the Snowdonia National Park Authority were supportive of the proposals.

Councillor Trefor Edwards - chair of the authority's Snowdon summit panel - said that if the project was realised, the highest mountain in England and Wales would have a building of which "we can be proud."

Iwan Hughes, chief executive of Snowdonia National Park, said: "One of the principles of our brief was to make the architects aware that they are leadling with a Welsh icon here."

Walkers welcome the chance of a hot drink

"That meant making this building's appearance acceptable to all the people who go up Snowdon - and making the experience worthwhile and one they will cherish."

He said the current plan drawn up by architects Furneaux Stewart was less ambitious and less costly than previous ones.

The architects have played a prominent part in the Welsh National Botanic Gardens in Carmarthenshire and the Eden Project in Cornwall among other projects.

"Its extremely interesting taking in issues of light and sustainability," said Mr Hughes.

A consultation process will begin in January with public meetings in Llanberis and Beddgelert to gauge whether there is public backing for the scheme.

The architects helped build the Botanic Gardens

If public support is found a planning application will be put in to the Welsh Assembly so that the �4m scheme can go ahead.

Backing for the scheme would be sought from the assembly and other sources.

In February the authority scrapped plans to raise �5m to replace the cafe after failing to raise sufficient backing and opted instead for the refurbishment scheme.

Approaches for help were made to a number of organisations - including the Millennium Commission - in vain.

In 1997, a survey in the Snowdon area found more than 75% questioned thought the cafe building should be replaced.

They also thought the new building should provide shelter, public toilets and refreshements for visitors.