The Planning Committee of Cardiff Council met on Thursday, 8 October 2026, to discuss several development management applications. The committee granted planning permission for the conversion of Red Balloon Nursery into a nine-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), approved the development of a discount retail foodstore on Plot A, Wern Fawr Lane, and granted permission for a single-storey rear extension at 61 St Anthony Road.

Red Balloon Nursery, Pentwyn

The committee granted planning permission for the change of use of the former Red Balloon Nursery on Circle Way East, Llanedeyrn, into a nine-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The decision followed a lengthy debate, with objectors raising concerns about the suitability of the building for nine occupants, potential overcrowding, and the impact on parking and waste management. The applicant's agent and planning officers highlighted that the proposed conditions would limit occupancy to nine individuals, and that the repurposed outbuilding would provide adequate communal living space. Councillors discussed the policy framework, with particular attention paid to Policy H6 regarding the change of use to residential properties. Despite some reservations about the location of the communal lounge in a separate outbuilding and the arrangement for bedroom nine's en-suite bathroom, the committee ultimately approved the application, noting that it met the necessary planning standards and offered a sustainable use for the vacant building.

Plot A, Wern Fawr Lane, Pontprennau & Old St Mellons

Planning permission was granted for the development of a discount retail foodstore (identified as Aldi) on Plot A, Wern Fawr Lane, Old St Mellons. The application was significant due to its location on allocated employment land and its out-of-centre retail status. Concerns were raised by objectors, including Councillor Joel Williams and Tesco Stores Ltd, regarding highway capacity, traffic congestion, the loss of employment land, and the potential impact on the vitality of St Mellons District Centre. Supporters highlighted the need for increased retail choice, affordable groceries, and local employment opportunities. Planning officers presented evidence that the site had high vacancy rates for employment use and that the retail proposal met the sequential test and would not cause significant adverse impacts on existing centres. The committee debated the merits of the proposal, considering its economic benefits, accessibility, and design. Ultimately, the application was approved, with conditions addressing highway works, servicing management, waste management, and ecological enhancements.

61 St Anthony Road, Heath

The committee granted planning permission for a single-storey rear extension at 61 St Anthony Road, Heath. This application was brought before the committee because the applicant is an elected member of the council. The proposed extension would extend across the full width of the rear elevation and project approximately 4.6 metres, with a flat roof and a maximum height of 2.8 metres. The planning officer reported that the extension was considered proportionate to the host dwelling, reflective of local development, and would not result in an unacceptable loss of light, privacy, or create an overbearing impact on neighbouring occupiers. No objections were received from neighbours or consultees. The committee debated the proposal, with a question raised about its proximity to a neighbour's existing extension and whether it would have been permitted development if not for the applicant's status. The officer clarified the extension's projection relative to the neighbour's and confirmed it would not be permitted development due to its depth. The application was subsequently approved.