Raised deck and hut at 53 Rehoboth Road, Five Roads, Llanelli

What was proposed

Permission was sought for a raised timber deck and central hut in the front garden, partly built when the application was submitted.

“The application seeks planning permission for a timber hut with surrounding raised decking located in the front garden of the host property. According to the plans the structure is raised off the ground by 1.7m at the southeast facing entry point. The ridge is to be 4.1m above ground level, with the hut measuring 2.6m x 2.6m and the decking measuring just under 5m x 5m.”

“The application seeks to provide an outdoor shelter for the applicant’s autistic child. The applicant has stated that there has been a reported road traffic collision due to the child’s proclivity to climb the wall at the front of the property. The development is intended to provide a space that is higher off the ground in the area the child likes to play that will provide them with the means to climb within the confines of the property.”

Officer report

The site

The property is a detached home with large front and rear gardens, mature trees, boundary walls and nearby residential properties.

“The application site relates to number 53 Rehoboth Road situated in the village of Five Roads, Llanelli. Rehoboth Road is a detached residential property set within large grounds with a substantial front garden area that fronts onto the B4309 to the north along with a substantial rear garden. Rehoboth Road and a vacant plot is situated to the west of the dwelling whilst, 49 Rehoboth road and Highmead (51 Rehoboth Road) is located to the east.”

“The application site specifically relates to the front garden area of 53 Rehoboth Road. The dwelling itself is set back approximately 40m from the front garden boundary with the B4309 which is defined by a 1.95m brick wall with railings. A number of mature trees are also situated within the front garden area.”

Officer report

Earlier permissions

Earlier permissions covered the private house and garage, a swimming pool, and an enclosed pool with a front boundary wall and railings.

“S/11551 – Detached enclosed swimming pool and front boundary wall and railings (1.95m) – Granted 19/12/2005”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval because the specific circumstances, mature trees and existing walls would avoid unacceptable visual or privacy impacts.

“After careful consideration of the scheme as submitted it is concluded on balance that, having regard to the specific circumstances of the case and site specific considerations including the presence of mature trees and existing walls, the proposal would not have an unacceptable impact upon the character and appearance of the area and the structure would not result in a significant impact upon the privacy of neighbouring residents and is therefore considered to comply with…”

Officer report

What consultees said

The parish council raised no objection subject to protecting neighbours’ amenity and privacy, while the local member objected on privacy grounds.

“Llanelli Rural Council - No objections provided there is no detrimental impact on the amenity and privacy of neighbouring dwellings.”

“Local Member(s) - Councillor Alex Evans has objected on privacy infringement.”

Officer report

What people said

Three objections concerned privacy, noise, plans, appearance and consultation, while several supporting letters described safety, recreational and therapeutic benefits.

“Impact upon the privacy and amenity of neighbours via overlooking and noise • Inaccurate plans • Not in keeping with the character and appearance of the area • Lack of public consultation.”

“Social Worker Rhian Parry supports that the proposed playhouse is intended to offer the child a safe, structured, and engaging space within the confines of the family’s garden. It will provide a much-needed outlet for sensory and recreational activity while also acting as a deterrent to him leaving the premises. It is supported that this addition could play a meaningful role in supporting the child's emotional regulation and safety.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The senior development management officer presented the site visit, report and recommendation, and a local member requested mature evergreen planting.

What members considered

The committee’s site visit addressed concerns about privacy, inaccurate plans, appearance and consultation, and planting requirements were noted.

“The Senior Development Management Officer (Aman Gwendraeth) referred to the private site visit undertaken by the Committee earlier that day (minute 3.2 of the Planning Committee held on the 14 th…”

“August, 2025 refers), the purpose of which was to enable the Committee to view the site in light of concerns raised in relation to potential privacy infringements, inaccurate plans, not in keeping with the character and appearance of the area and a lack of public consultation.”

Minutes

Proposed conditions

The permission would be personal, protect existing trees and require further boundary planting details within three months.

“The existing trees located within the front garden area of the application site shall not be cut down, up-rooted, destroyed, topped, lopped or pruned without the prior written approval of the Local Planning Authority.”

“Within 3 months of the date of this permission, full details for additional planting along the site's boundary with 55 Rehoboth road shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The development shall thereafter be carried out in the first planting season in accordance with the approved details.”

Officer report