Latest news with #NewportLocalDevelopmentPlan
South Wales Argus
4 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Argus
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.
South Wales Argus
27-05-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Plans submitted to revamp Eveswell Community Centre
Eveswell Community Centre will undergo a series of upgrades, including new roof canopies, improved windows and doors, and a solar panel installation, all while maintaining its current use as a community facility. The project is spearheaded by Paul Hackwood, of TocH, and managed by Town & Country Planning Advisors Ltd. The updates aim to significantly enhance the building's energy efficiency and lifespan. The centre will be fitted with external insulation and composite cladding featuring a timber-effect finish, and all existing windows and doors will be replaced with high-performance aluminium units. A new insulated metal roof will be installed, complemented by sections of a sedum green roof, which is expected to bolster the building's sustainability credentials. Two new entrance canopies are also part of the refurbishment. The roof-mounted solar photovoltaic array, with a capacity of 4.8kW, is expected to provide a portion of the building's electricity needs, reducing its carbon footprint. The refurbishment package also includes works such as infrared-controlled external lighting, CCTV, rainwater goods, and decorative aluminium covers over some of the concrete fixings. The community centre is easily accessible from Eveswell Street and Archibald Street, being on a corner plot in the residential area. The site is designated as Flood Zone 3 (Sea); however, the development is classified as low vulnerability, and the sedum roof is expected to assist with drainage. Officials noted that the development would not lead to any change in the building's footprint or increase its vulnerability to flooding. The centre has no previous planning applications, appeals, or enforcement records. The revamp is aligned with both national and local planning policies, including Future Wales – The National Plan 2040 and the Newport Local Development Plan 2011–2026. The improvements are anticipated to support the continued use and regeneration of the community centre, enhancing its utility for local groups and services. Construction is expected to commence within five years, adhering to the submitted plans, if they are approved.
South Wales Argus
12-05-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Plan to transform Newport shopping centre into 'bustling hub'
The proposals aim to rejuvenate the Kingsway Centre in Newport, introducing a multitude of uses. The plans, submitted by Boyce Group Ltd, and outlined in a Design & Access Statement, aim to expand the centre's range of services on all floors, from the lower ground to the roof. The proposed reorganisation would accommodate a variety of uses: retail, leisure, hospitality, non-residential institutions, food and beverage services, and professional services. This expansion reflects the shifting demands of Newport's city centre as it grapples with underused commercial spaces due to the surge of online shopping. The plan builds on a prior planning approval for the Lower Ground Floor (Ref: 24/0644) and is a direct response to the closure of major retailers like Debenhams at nearby Friars Walk. Developers stress that this increased flexibility is crucial for bolstering the local economy and providing opportunities for independent businesses. The Kingsway Centre, situated near Newport Museum and Central Library, is poised to regain its status as a civic and commercial hub. Developers see the project as a driving force for regeneration, aligning with the Newport Local Development Plan's goals for revitalisation and economic resilience. The proposal also includes commitments to enhance urban biodiversity. While no immediate physical alterations to the building are planned, future installations of bird boxes, insect hotels, and pollinator-friendly plants are included in the plans. These additions not only bolster Newport's status as a Bee Friendly City but also align with the national sustainability aims outlined in Future Wales: The National Plan 2040. A spokesperson for Sustainable Studio Architects said: "By embracing flexibility, the Kingsway Centre can adapt to future trends while strengthening its community value. "Our vision is for a dynamic space that serves both residents and visitors—reviving the city centre for years to come." If green-lit, the proposal is expected to increase footfall, generate jobs, and stimulate local businesses, all while celebrating Newport's cultural heritage. The decision date for the application is yet to be confirmed.
South Wales Argus
12-05-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Objections to 26 homes plan for Traston Lane in Newport
The proposed development at Traston Lane, Newport, is being brought forward by Wellspring Homes and includes a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom homes. The plans also include new access via Traston Road, landscaping, a new pumping station, and various sustainability features such as the use of hempcrete for construction. The site has been identified as a housing commitment area in the Newport Local Development Plan (LDP). However, ward Councillor James Peterson has voiced strong opposition to the scheme, citing concerns from the community. His objections include worries over flooding, with fears that the development could worsen the situation due to the raising of ground levels. The site is located within Flood Zone C2, and the plans have taken this into account with floor levels set to be raised. Concerns have also been raised about the current sewerage infrastructure, which is already at capacity. Residents fear this will lead to more overflows. Councillor Peterson is also worried about potential issues from the new pump station, including noise and smell, and has raised questions about its maintenance and access plans. Traffic is another major concern, with an estimated 26% increase expected. This has led to worries about the condition of Traston Road and congestion near local schools. There are also concerns about the impact on 400-year-old oak trees, with fears that root protection measures are not adequate. Other objections include fears about the devaluation of property due to the affordable housing, and what the councillor describes as "planning fatigue". This is due to the ongoing applications over 32 years, which he says have caused repeated distress to residents. Despite these objections, Gwent Police have raised no issues with the application, based on current crime levels. The development area has been assessed as a low crime risk, and recommendations for security have been given. The final decision on the application is yet to be made, with the application currently under consideration by planners.
South Wales Argus
11-05-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Newport HMO application turned down over flood risk
The property, located at 33 Walmer Road, Newport, was already functioning as a four-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) since November 2024 and had a licence from Environmental Health. The applicant sought approval for the change in use, but the application was rejected on May 10. The refusal was based primarily on the lack of a Flood Consequences Assessment (FCA), given that the property is in Flood Zone 3 – Sea, a high-risk area. The ground floor bedroom, in particular, was highlighted as having no adequate first-floor flood refuge, with only the landing and communal bathroom as possible refuge spaces. These were considered insufficient based on a relevant precedent. Consequently, the application was found to be contrary to Planning Policy Wales, TAN15 (2025), and policies SP3, GP2, H8 of the Newport Local Development Plan (2011–2026). Residents in the area raised several objections to the application, primarily concerning parking problems and congestion, especially with visitors to a nearby One Stop Shop. There were also complaints about noise and anti-social behaviour, often associated with the transient nature of HMO tenants, as well as concerns about rubbish overflow, pest issues, and property value depreciation. One resident noted: "There seems to be a considerable rise in houses of multiple occupancy in our road which is placing a significant strain on parking..." Another commented: "HMOs, if not properly managed, can sometimes lead to an increase in anti-social behaviour..." Councillors Matthew Pimm and Deborah Davies also objected to the application. Councillor Pimm highlighted the issue of overdevelopment and the lack of suitability of the terraced houses for HMO use. Councillor Davies raised concerns about parking safety and security, particularly for lone women at night, and requested a parking survey. The Highways Officer also objected due to the lack of off-road parking, inadequate cycle and refuse storage, and access issues. Natural Resources Wales noted that the property is in Flood Zone 3 – Sea and stated that the flood risk was increased due to the intensification of use. They also advised conducting a Flood Consequences Assessment, which was not provided. The Waste Manager indicated a standard 120-litre bin allocation with kerbside recycling, with no issues as long as the bins meet the specified requirements.
