Newport man denied planning for pool house on Bassaleg Road
The proposal to retain and complete the pool house at 158 Bassaleg Road was refused due to worries about sewer infrastructure risks.
Welsh Water objected, warning of the health, safety, and environmental risks posed by a 12-inch public sewer and a 300mm public combined sewer overflow running beneath the site.
This objection was maintained throughout the process, with Welsh Water stating the development was "impractical" and contrary to Policy GP7.
The planning application, as submitted, was for a pool house measuring 14.71m by 3.71m, with a height ranging from 2.48m to 3.2m.
The building features bifold and French doors, roof lights, and materials matching the main dwelling.
Welsh Water was not alone in expressing concerns.
A neighbour also raised objections, citing potential damage to their garden and workshop, as well as the risk of undermining workshop foundations due to the deep, unsupported excavations.
Meanwhile, the Welsh Government's initial concerns about the pool house's proximity to the M4 retaining wall were alleviated after structural documents were submitted.
The tree officer raised no objections, and there were no significant biodiversity issues or impacts on trees.
Despite the acceptable visual and residential impact of the pool house, the primary reason for the refusal was the risk to public health and safety due to construction over critical sewer infrastructure.
The proposal was found to be non-compliant with Policy GP7 of the Newport Local Development Plan 2011–2026.
The decision to refuse the application was made on prior to the statutory expiration on February 3, 2025.
The refusal was supported by various architectural drawings and site plans, including elevations, floor plans, and location plans.
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