Controversial Bettws Newydd likely to get go ahead (From Western Telegraph)

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority planners recommend "eyesore" stays

9:10am Wednesday 15th April 2009 in News

A house at the centre of a long-running planning row looks set to get the thumbs up today (Wednesday).

Bettws Newydd, a large replacement house nearing completion on the Parrog in Newport, was granted planning approval in 2006, but retrospective permission was applied for after the construction deviated from the original plans.

More than 300 people signed a petition opposing the building, and 35 letters of objection and two of support were received by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.

Those opposing the building say it is ugly and an eyesore, is too high, more visually intrusive than the building it replaced, goes against planning policies and looks like an industrial building.

However, planning officers have now recommended approval of the application when it is considered by the park authority’s development management committee next Wednesday.

Officers say the changes from the original plans are “relatively minor” and do not cause “any significant harm”.

The officer’s report states: “It is considered that this proposal will preserve and enhance the character of the area, and introduce a new, more modern element.”

The authority’s conservation officer stated: “What has been proposed seems to be a step in the right direction towards developing new sites in the national park.

“A new house in a new style seems far more compatible with the character of the area, continuing the pattern of development.”

The officer’s report added: “Despite the request in many objections to knock the building down, the applicant has no requirement to do that should permission be refused: he could merely revert to the approved plans.”

Several concerned local people are now planning to speak at the committee meeting.

Robbie Manson, a member of a group actively opposing the development, was disappointed by the recommendation.

He said: “We will make it clear to members that if they proceed with the recommendation, we are going to seriously consider challenging this legally.”