Annex extension and garage at Rhydywernen Fach, Libanus, Brecon

What was proposed

The application proposed an annex extension with living space and bedrooms, a garage with storage, solar panels, rooflights and associated works.

“The proposal seeks to extend the existing dwelling to form an annexe, including a two-storey side extension comprising living space and bedroom and further single storey side extension comprising a further bedroom and living space, as well as an attached two-storey garage with store above to the front of the dwelling.”

“The proposal would be finished with a charred British Larch cladding to the walls, zinc seam roof covering to the pitched roof elevations of the two-storey extension elements and synthetic roof covering to the flat roofed single storey elements. The proposal seeks to install a row of solar panels to the rear, south-facing roof slope of the proposed two-storey element.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The existing dwelling is a substantial detached house in countryside between Brecon and Libanus, on a large plot accessed from the A470.

“The site comprises an existing residential dwelling located in the Countryside of the National Park, as defined by the Brecon Beacons National Park Local Development Plan (adopted 2013). The site is located between Brecon and Libanus, approximately 1.5km from the settlement boundary of Brecon, and 2.5km from the settlement boundary of Libanus.”

“The dwelling itself is a substantial two-storey detached dwelling with a single storey extension to the rear and additional separate two-storey extension to the rear and an attached single storey open store projecting to the front. The dwelling is finished in a mix of natural stone and smooth painted render, with slate to the roofs of the main dwelling and corrugated sheeting to the open store.”

Officer report

Public comments

One contribution supported flexible multi-generational living, while the Park Society questioned the annexe’s independence, materials and effect on the Park’s character.

“Comments of support included: • Efficient use of a residential plot to allow flexible, multi-generational living.”

“Extension not appearing to have been designed for a person in need of care but could be readily used as a separate independent dwelling unit in a countryside location, with limited connection between the accommodation and main dwelling. • Different material from the materials used on the existing unit, extension not in harmony with the existing unit and generally out of character with that unit.”

Officer report

Who spoke

No public speakers addressed the committee, and the case officer gave Members a comprehensive presentation.

The committee’s decision

The committee agreed the officer recommendation to delegate approval to the Director of Planning and Place, subject to conditions.

“Proposal The officer recommendation was put to Members that Members delegate powers to the Director of Planning and Place to grant planning permission subject to planning conditions in paragraph 10 of this report,.”

“Decision The officer recommendation was agreed that Members delegate powers to the Director of Planning and Place to grant planning permission subject to planning conditions in paragraph 10 of this report,.”

Minutes