Cafe and restaurant at Public Convenience, Pontypool

“The Senior Planner presented the report to Members, displaying plans and photos and made the following comments: • The application related to the former public toilet building on Hanbury Road and formed part of the Pontypool Town Centre Levelling Up Fund regeneration scheme. • Planning permission was sought for the substantial demolition of the existing building and its rebuild to provide a café/restaurant use.”

“The current application follows further structural and viability concerns with the previously approved schemes. • The proposed demolition was considered substantial. A separate Conservation Area Consent application had been submitted which would be determined by Welsh Ministers rather than the local planning authority.”

“The lower ground floor would no longer be converted, as it was required for structural support. • A small kiosk building was proposed at the rear, adjacent to the Italian Gardens. • A new terrace, retaining wall, and reconfigured steps would integrate the building with the existing garden pathways. • The main entrance from Hanbury Road would provide access through to the café/restaurant overlooking the Italian Gardens.”

“The impact on surrounding heritage assets and the Italian Gardens was considered minor and was adequately mitigated through design.”

“It was proposed to install solar panels on the roof of this flat roof extension. • The importance of incorporating environmentally sustainable measures was acknowledged and environmental matters such as grey water recycling, water usage, and thermal efficiency would be considered at the Building Control stage, in line with modern building standards. • The rebuilt structure would be required to meet current thermal performance standards, resulting in reduced heating demand.”

“Members unanimously agreed to approve the application subject to the conditions laid out in the report.”