Seven self-contained flats at Wesley House Day Centre, Ferndale

“Full planning permission is sought for the conversion and change of use of the property from a day centre to seven self-contained flats at Wesley House, 71 High Street, Ferndale, CF43 4RR.”

“The proposal would also see works to the rear amenity space with the creation of 4no. parking spaces, bin and cycle storage and outside shared areas.”

“The property comprises a substantial two-storey building which has historically operated as a community or institutional facility and is currently vacant. The building is set back from High Street by an area of public realm, with a bridge providing direct pedestrian access into the first floor from High Street. Due to the topography, the ground floor sits below the level of the highway.”

“The surrounding area is mixed in character. High Street, in the vicinity of the site, lies within the designated retail centre of Ferndale, identified as a Local and Neighbourhood Centre within the Rhondda Cynon Taf Local Development Plan. It accommodates a range of A1, A2 and A3 uses at ground-floor level, with residential accommodation typically located above. Community and public-service uses are also present within the immediate area.”

“The most recent planning applications on record associated with the application site are:”

“15/1563/FUL: Proposed conversion of former day centre into two self-contained flats. Decision: 04/03/2016, Grant…”

“The proposed flats would make productive use of a currently vacant building in a manner compatible with the surrounding area and in a sustainable location. The development would not result in any significant harm to the amenity of neighbouring residents, and it would provide an appropriate standard of accommodation for future occupants. The proposed alterations to the building would be acceptable in terms of their impact on the character of the area.”

“Consequently, the development would be considered to comply with the Rhondda Cynon Taf Local Development Plan, particularly Policies AW2, AW5, AW6 and NSA12”

“No objection although condition suggested in relation to surface water drainage.”

“No objection although conditions recommended with regard to hours of construction, noise, dust, waste and noise.”

“The Head of Planning presented the application to Committee and following consideration it was RESOLVED to approve the application in accordance with the recommendation of the Director, Housing and Regeneration subject to an amendment to condition 5 to require a parking lay out to be submitted and approved and to an additional condition requiring submission of a construction management plan as Members were concerned in respect of deliveries to the site given the busy nature…”

“Reason: To ensure that the development results in a net gain of biodiversity in accordance with Planning Policy Wales Edition 12 and Policy AW8 of the Rhondda Cynon Taf Local Development Plan.”

“Prior to beneficial occupation of the development hereby approved, the parking area shall be constructed in permanent materials and retained for the purposes of parking only.”