The Carmarthenshire County Council's Planning Committee meeting on June 4th focused on a contentious planning application for a property in Ffynnondrain. The main discussion revolved around whether to approve amendments to the original planning permission granted in 1998. The committee ultimately decided to approve the amendments with specific conditions.

Amendments to Planning Permission for Property in Ffynnondrain

The primary topic was the application PL06309, which sought to amend Condition 2 of the original planning permission (02132) for a property located about 2 kilometers north of Carmarthen Town. The amendments included an increase in the height of the roof by one meter, an increase in the depth of the property by one meter, and changes to the access ramp and windows.

Arguments For and Against the Amendments

For:

• Paul Richards, the developer's agent, argued that the changes were necessary due to modern building materials and structural requirements. He emphasized that the increased roof height and depth were minimal and did not significantly impact neighboring properties.
• The planning officer, Helen, noted that the amendments provided an opportunity to improve privacy for neighboring properties by installing obscure glazing and a privacy screen.

Against:

• Bridget Manning and Tom Bowen, representing neighboring properties, argued that the amendments resulted in a significant loss of privacy and were out of character with the area. They emphasized that the original plans were for a bungalow, and the changes made the property much more imposing.
• Councillor Jean Lewis expressed concerns about the impact on neighbors' privacy and the character of the area. She argued that approving the amendments would set a precedent allowing developers to make significant changes without proper consultation.

Decision and Conditions

The committee voted 9 to 2, with one abstention, to approve the amendments with specific conditions:

• Permitted Development Rights: All permitted development rights for extensions, roof alterations, and outbuildings were removed to ensure any future changes would require planning permission.
• Privacy Screen: A robust and stable privacy screen must be installed, with the details to be submitted for approval to ensure longevity and effectiveness.
• Obscure Glazing: Windows on the side elevation facing neighboring properties must be obscure glazed in perpetuity.
• Monitoring of Attic Space: The attic space must not be converted into habitable rooms without specific planning permission.

Other Items

• Apologies for Absence: Five councillors sent their apologies: John James, Michelle Donoghue, Peter Cooper, Edward Skinner, and Terry Davis.
• Declaration of Personal Interest: No declarations were made.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that the next Planning Committee meeting would be held on June 20th.