The Planning Committee of Cardiff Council met on Thursday, 2 July 2026, to discuss several development management applications. Key decisions included the deferral of the Rainbow Bargain Ltd application for a site visit, the granting of planning permission and listed building consent for the redevelopment of the former Wolf's Castle Inn into affordable housing, and the approval of various other planning applications and delegated decisions.

Rainbow Bargain Ltd, Bangor Street, Roath

The committee considered the application for the repair, alteration, and extension of the former Albany Road Methodist Church, a Grade II listed building, to facilitate a change of use to a flexible mixed-use development. The proposal included alterations to the roof, a roof extension to the northeast corner, and an infill extension to the west. Significant public objection had been received, primarily concerning the impact of the modern extension on the character of the listed building and the conservation area. Councillor Peter Wong, a local ward member, declared an interest as he had previously objected to the application and requested a site visit.

During the debate, Councillor Wong argued that the presented plans and CGIs were misleading and that the officer's analysis of the extension's impact on neighbouring windows was inaccurate. He highlighted that the extension clearly covered a significant portion of the neighbouring property's windows, contradicting the officer's report. Councillor Michael, however, stated he did not believe a site visit was necessary, citing the building's poor condition and the general agreement that significant work was needed. Councillor Simeon supported a site visit to see the building in context, while Councillor Denton supported it if access to the specific snug room window was possible. Councillor Driscoll sought clarification on whether the adjacent property was currently occupied as a residence. Councillor Robson agreed that a site visit would be pointless if access to the adjacent building was not possible.

Following the debate, a vote was held on the proposal for a site visit, which was proposed by Councillor Simeon and seconded by Councillor Lagunta. The vote was carried, and the committee agreed to defer the decision on the Rainbow Bargain Ltd application and the associated listed building consent application to allow for a site visit.

Wolf's Castle Inn, Wolfs Castle Avenue, Llanishen

The committee then considered the application for the demolition of the former Wolf's Castle Inn and its redevelopment for residential purposes, comprising 100% affordable housing. The proposal included an apartment block of 12 flats, a smaller block of two flats, and ten single dwellings. Councillor Garry Hunt, speaking on behalf of himself and Councillor Proctor, welcomed the development of affordable housing on the brownfield site, acknowledging the loss of the pub as a community facility but noting the availability of alternatives. However, he expressed concerns about the size of the three-storey apartment block, stating it was too big and imposed significantly on the surrounding area. He also raised questions about the justification for demolishing a building with identified bat roosts and the handling of highways and traffic aspects.

Ken, the planning officer, addressed Councillor Hunt's concerns, explaining that the design had undergone iterations and that the apartment block's location on the corner was considered the best option to minimise light issues. He also clarified that while bats were present, policy did not prohibit demolition, and mitigation strategies were in place, with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) raising no objection subject to these conditions. Councillor Jon Shimmin inquired about the heritage value of the building, specifically mentioning its 19th-century farmhouse origins and requesting to see more photographic evidence from the building survey. Councillor Helen Gunter praised the quality of the proposed housing, noting the excellent standard of previous council developments and finding the three-storey apartment block acceptable. Councillor Sean Driscoll also supported the development, though he commented on the blandness of the materials used for the apartment block. Councillor Lexi Pocknell questioned whether ecological evidence was complete, specifically regarding bat surveys, before making a decision. Councillor Michael supported the application, with a minor suggestion regarding the balconies on the apartment block.

The planning officer confirmed that the building recording had been undertaken and placed on the heritage record. They also reiterated that the demolition was justified due to the building's limited heritage significance and the benefits of delivering affordable housing. The committee voted to grant planning permission subject to a Section 106 agreement and conditions.

Applications decided by Delegated Powers

The committee noted the applications decided by delegated powers between 28 May and 24 June 2026.

Date of Next Meeting

The date of the next meeting was scheduled for Thursday, 30 July 2026, at 10:30 am. The committee also noted that they would be informed about the date of the site visit.

The meeting concluded with the Chair thanking everyone for their patience during an earlier protest.