MERTHYR TYDFIL COUNTY BOROUGH COUNCIL

DATE WRITTEN 6th September 2012

REPORT AUTHOR Judith Jones

COMMITTEE Planning and Regulatory

COMMITTEE DATE 19th September 2012

To: Chairman and Members of the Planning and Regulatory Committee to be held

on Wednesday, 19th September 2012 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Report of the Director of Customer Services on applications received for determination and recommendation under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and Planning Compensation Act 1991. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LIST OF CONTENTS 1. PLANNING APPLICATIONS FOR COMMITTEE DETERMINATION 2. REPORTS FOR INFORMATION

2.1 PLANNING APPLICATION NO: P/10/0014 TRAGO MILLS SHOPPING CENTRE AND LEISURE PARK, FORMER HEOLGERRIG BRICKWORKS, SWANSEA ROAD – ERECTION OF EXTENSION TO PREVIOUSLY APPROVED BUILDING

2.2 Planning application Appeals Received from the Planning Inspectorate

2.3 Enforcement Appeals Received from the Planning Inspectorate

2.4 Appeal Determined by the Planning Inspectorate

2.5 Planning Application Statistics: July 2012

2.6 Delegated Decision Report List: July & August 2012

GENERAL NOTES 1. In addition to those conditions specifically noted on the reports contained within this

Committee Agenda, all decision notices issued (unless expressly noted as being an exception to this practice) will include a condition relating to the duration of the permission.

These conditions are expressly imposed in accordance with Sections 91 and 92 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

All applications will be granted subject to a standard condition which requires that the development approved must commence within five years of the date of the permission (unless the Local Planning Authority stipulates an alternative time period).

Outline planning permissions will be issued subject to a condition requiring “reserved matters” to be submitted within three years of the date of the outline permission. Works in relation to the development must commence within five years of the initial outline consent, or if later, the expiration of two years from the final approval of the “reserved matters” or, in the case of approval on different dates, the final approval of the last such matter to be approved.

2. All related planning application documents are available for inspection within the

Town Planning Division, at Ground Floor, Ty Keir Hardie, during normal office hours.

1. PLANNING APPLICATIONS FOR COMMITTEE DETERMINATION Application No.

Location Proposed Development Officer Initials

Page No.

P/12/0135 Plot 2 Pengarnddu

Industrial Estate Dowlais Top Merthyr Tydfil

Erection of standby embedded STOR power plant with associated transformer/generators and connection to national grid. Erection of switchrooms, welfare office, bunded fuel tanks and security/acoustic fencing and other associated engineering works

DC

4

P/12/0149 Former Cinema Site Adjacent To 1 Fox Street Treharris

Erection of free standing sign DC

13

P/12/0156 Cyfarthfa Leat And Old Tramway (land West Of Gurnos Villa) Cefn Coed Merthyr Tydfil

Construction of walkway linking Cyfarthfa Park and Cyfarthfa Leat. Erection of tram feature with associated re-profiling works and steel railings

LT

17

P/12/0168 Cefn Coed RFC Station Road Cefn Coed Merthyr Tydfil

Erection of single storey side porch RT

24

P/12/0172 Merthyr Tydfil College Ynysfach Merthyr Tydfil CF48 1AR

Erection of new boundary fence to the southern boundary of the new campus building

RT

27

P/12/0176 Pupil Referral Unit Alexandra Avenue Penydarren Merthyr Tydfil

Installation of 1 No. name plate sign, 1 No. fascia sign and 1 No. free standing sign

DJ

31

P/12/0208 Bishop Hedley High School Gwaunfarren Road Penydarren Merthyr Tydfil

Installation of solar photovoltaic modules to the flat and pitched roofs

DJ

34

P/12/0209 St Aloysius RC Primary School Cedar Way Gurnos Merthyr Tydfil

Installation of solar photovoltaic modules to roof

DJ

37

Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0135 31st May 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Erection of standby embedded STOR power plant with associated transformer/generators and connection to national grid. Erection of switchrooms, welfare office, bunded fuel tanks and security/acoustic fencing and other associated engineering works

Plot 2 Pengarnddu Industrial Estate Dowlais Top Merthyr Tydfil

Green Frog Power 214 F.a.o. Mr D Sheppard Unit 17 The Courtyard Gorsey Lane Coleshill

APPLICATION SITE This application relates to a plot of land located within the northern section of Pengarnddu Industrial Estate (Plot 2). The site has historically been used in connection with past mining activities and industrial uses, but has been derelict for a number of years and has been subjected to fly tipping.

The main part of the application site (to the north) measures approximately 54m wide by 78m deep with a narrow strip of land (leading to the south) measuring approximately 7m wide by 50m long. The application site has an overall area of approximately 0.39 hectares. The site is bounded to the north and west by land used for industrial purposes and to the east is a vacant industrial plot. The primary means of access into the site is via a gated entrance to the south off the main highway serving the wider area of Pengarnddu Industrial Estate. There are no permanent buildings or structures located within the site, although there is evidence of waste material from fly tipping and a dilapidated cabin which is reminiscent of its derelict nature. The northern part of Pengarnddu Industrial Estate, within which the application site sits, is commonly known as ‘Pengarnddu Difficult Business Park’, due to the nature of the businesses operating from these plots, which are often difficult to locate in other established industrial estates. There are no significant natural features within the application site, such as tree, hedges or water courses. However, across the southern boundary of the site is an earth embankment/bund with a small number of shrubs. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Full planning consent is sought for the erection of a standby embedded ‘Short Term Operating Reserve’ (STOR) power plant, which will be connected to the National Grid (Western Power Distribution) to provide additional electricity during periods of stress on the National Grid. The Power Plant would be capable of delivering up to 20MW of power to the National Grid. The proposed development will comprise the installation of 52 No. Generators, 14 No. transformers, a substation/switching room to be used by Green Frog Power (GFP), welfare office, bunded fuel tanks and a switching room to be used by Western Power Distribution (WPD). Each element of the proposed development will be of the following dimensions:

• The Generators will measure 5m wide by 1.6m deep and 2.4m high.

• The majority of the transformers will measure 1.9m wide by 1.9m deep and 2.2m high, with one generator measuring 4.8m wide by 3m deep and 4.4m high.

• The GFP substation/switching room will measure 12m wide by 3.2m deep and 3m high with a pitched roof.

• The welfare office will be of a modified steel container construction, measuring 3.8m wide by 2.4m deep and 2.85m high, accommodating a canteen and toilet facility and will be located at the northern part of the site.

• The Bunded fuel tank will measure 5.3m wide by 2.3m deep and 2m high and will be located at the southern part of the site adjacent to the main access road serving the site.

• The WPD switching room will measure 5.2m wide by 5.4m deep and 5.35m high with a pitched roof, and will be located in the south-west corner of the site. The external finishes of this building will comprise brickwork elevations with dark grey concrete roof tiles.

A 2.4m high weld mesh ‘anti climb’ security fence is proposed to be erected along the main northern section of the application site, with a further 4m high acoustic fencing (consisting of a concrete plinth with a layered and insulated upvc panels on top) erected around the generators and transformers to create a restricted and secure compound area. A new access road will be provided from the existing highway (to the south) measuring between 3.5m and 8m wide, providing access for service vehicles up to and within the generator/transformer compound area. PLANNING HISTORY There is no relevant planning history that needs to be taken into consideration in the determination of this application. CONSULTATION Engineering & Highway Manager - No objection subject to a condition relating to drainage

details.

Town Planning Division’s Countryside Officer - No objection subject to a condition relating to reptiles.

Town Planning Division’s Design, Heritage and Conservation Officer - No objection

Town Planning Division’s Policy & Implementation Group Leader - No objection

Public Health Manager - No objection

Environment Agency - No objection

Welsh Water - No objection

Western Power Dist. - No response Wales & West Utilities - No response South Wales Police - No response Fire & Rescue Services - No objection

PUBLICITY In accordance with the Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2012, three site notices were displayed within the vicinity of the application site. No representations were received following this publicity exercise. POLICY CONTEXT National Policy Planning Policy Wales (4th Edition, Feb 2011) - PPW is the principle planning document of the Welsh Government, which sets out the land use policy context for the consideration and evaluation of all types of development. The most relevant sections pertaining to the proposed development are:

• Section 5.5 - Development control and the conservation and improvement of the natural heritage.

• Section 6.5 - Development control and the historic environment.

• Section 7.2 - Designating land for employment needs. Local Policy Adopted Merthyr Tydfil Borough Local Development Plan (LDP) 2006-2021: The following policies contained within the LDP are relevant to the determination of this application:

• Policy BW4 - Settlement boundaries/locational constraints.

• Policy BW5 - Natural heritage.

• Policy BW6 - Townscape and built heritage.

• Policy BW7 - Sustainable design and place making.

• Policy BW12 - Development proposals and transport.

• Policy AS4 - Historic landscape.

• Policy AS24 - Employment site protection. PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS Land-use The application site lies within the settlement limits as defined by the adopted LDP Proposals Map. The development of the site in land-use terms is generally supported by Policy BW4, which favours development within settlement limits, subject to its compatibility with other relevant policies. The application site falls under the definition of ‘previously developed land’ as stipulated in Figure 4.1 of Planning Policy Wales (PPW), which advocates the use of previously developed land wherever possible, in preference to ‘greenfield’ sites. Given the historical use of the site for industrial purposes, with evidence of some associated infrastructure and

a dilapidated structure, the development of the site is generally supported by national policy. The Pengarnddu Industrial Estate is listed within the LDP as being a ‘protected business/employment site’. In order to protect the employment function of the Borough, Policy AS24 states that development proposals in these areas will only be permitted if they:

• fall within Use Classes B1, B2 or B8; or

• provides an ancillary facility/service to the primary employment use; or

• is an acceptable commercial service unrelated to Class B uses. The proposed power plant is classified as a ‘sui generis’ use, indicating that it does not fall into any particular Use Class. Therefore the proposed development runs contrary to Policy AS24, as it does not fall within Use Class B1, B2 or B8, would not be ancillary to a primary use of the site and does not constitute a commercial service unrelated to a Class B use. Furthermore, it is intended that the operation of the power plant will be controlled remotely outside the Merthyr Tydfil Borough. Whilst the proposal will bring an otherwise redundant site back into beneficial use, the amount of onsite employment is minimal, with only a few specialised engineers visiting occasionally. The applicant has submitted a document prepared by Amec (Environmental and Infrastructure Advisors), which details the reasons for the site being selected for the power plant development. Primarily the site is suitable due to its accessibility, ease of connection to the national grid and the industrial nature of the area. This report highlights that the site has been vacant for the past 20 years and has been on the market for at least 5 years. It has been adequately demonstrated that there has been no market interest in the site and that the industrial nature of the area limits the prospect of future uses. In this regard the Town Planning Division’s Policy and Implementation Group Leader is satisfied with the conclusions made in this report and has raised no objection. Accordingly, the application site is deemed to be surplus to requirements and whilst the proposed power plant runs contrary to Policy AS24, on balance the proposal is considered to be acceptable in land-use terms and the aims and objectives of Policy AS24 have been sufficiently addressed. Design The proposed power plant largely consists of a number of generators and transformers which are encased within shielded units, which are of a typical design for such a development. The GFP switch room is a pre-fabricated structure that that will be located in close proximity to the generators/transformers, together with the welfare office which is a modified steel shipment container. These structures are considered to be appropriate in this location and would not appear out of character with the structures found on the adjoining industrial sites. The WPD switch room will be located in the south-west corner of the site (outside the security/acoustic fencing) adjacent to the southern earth mound/bund, to enable ease of access for WPD engineers to service their equipment, without having to enter the main power plant area. This building will be of a brickwork construction with a concrete tiled

roof. It is considered that the general design of this building is acceptable and will not have an adverse impact on the character of the area. The scale of the development, in terms of the height of any structure, will largely be screened by the erection of a 4m high acoustic fence. It is considered that this fencing will minimise the potential visual intrusion from a large number of generator/transformer units. Furthermore, the erection of a 2.4m high ‘anti climb’ weld mesh fence is deemed to be an acceptable means of enclosure to the site and will not have an adverse impact on the visual amenity of the area, particularly as weld mesh fencing has already been extensively used along the main highway (to the south) serving the site. As such, the development proposal does not run contrary to LDP Policy BW7. Heritage The application site is located within a Landscape of Historic Interest as defined on the LDP Proposals Map, which is also on the register of Landscapes of Outstanding Historic Interest in Wales. Additionally, the site lies within the Historic Landscape Character Area (HLCA) 047: Dowlais Top. The following comments have been made by the Town Planning Division’s Heritage Officer on the potential impacts to the historical designations: ‘The submission indicates a number of works which are visually malignant, such as bunded fuel tanks, switchrooms and transformers. However, these works appear to be largely obscured by a 2m high parameter fence and a 4m high acoustic fence. Any large scale proposals should not carry an overall reduction in the value of this landscape. Whilst some parameter bunding will form part of the proposals, these are not considered to be of a scale and impact sufficient to require an Assessment of the Impact of Development on the Historic Landscape (ASIDOHL2). The key landscape characteristics of this area are of recent commercial, retail and light industry. The area is formed of a former limestone quarry, the majority of which has been replaced by reclaimed industrial land...whilst the proposals will contain visually obtrusive features, the proposals remain confined as part of the industrial landscape character. A key management priority of this landscape is to maintain and enhance the surviving structures associated with Dowlais Top station. The proposals do not have an impact on this area. In terms of impacts on other features of the historic environment, it is accepted that given the context of the site, there shall be no major impacts upon the settings of Listed Buildings, Scheduled Ancient Monuments nor Conservation Areas. The proposals are not located within close vicinity of Historic Environment Records. Thus, the proposals will not impact directly or indirectly on statutory or locally significant heritage assets’. It is considered that the proposed power plant development will not have an adverse impact on the character or visual amenity of the surrounding area that would otherwise unacceptably diminish the value of the historical designations. As such the proposed development does not run contrary to LDP Policies BW6 and AS4 or Section 6.5 of PPW.

Environment There are no important natural features within the application site such as trees, hedges or watercourses that are deemed to be of significant ecological value. The site is currently in a derelict and unsightly state with evidence of fly tipping. Whilst the application site is bounded on all sides by land forming part of the Pengarnddu Industrial Estate, the proposal is within close proximity (75m to the north) of an area designated as the Merthyr Tydfil Common Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). An Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey report has been submitted in support of the application. This survey report confirms that the site does not lie within any statutory designated conservation sites. Nor is it considered to be of international, national, regional, county or local value for wildlife. Whilst the proposed development will likely increase the level of noise and human disturbance within the application site, the significance of such impacts on the Merthyr Tydfil Common (SINC) itself was concluded to be negligible in the survey report. Furthermore, the survey report indicates that the site supports low-grade and widespread habitats of value only within the immediate vicinity, which is considered to be of low ecological significance. A number of potential habitats that may host common reptiles were identified within the site. It is therefore essential that appropriate measures are implemented to prevent the death and injury of individuals during any site clearance works. The Town Planning Division’s Countryside Officer is satisfied with the conclusions made in the submitted Phase 1 Habitat Survey report. As such, no objection has been raised subject to a condition being imposed relating to the careful dismantling/removal of the piles of rubble on site which could comprise habitats for certain species. Highway The existing access road serving the application site is currently used in connection with a number of large commercial and industrial type uses that are frequently visited by heavy goods vehicles on a daily basis. It is considered that this access road is of a suitable standard to accommodate the necessary construction traffic, emergency vehicles and hence meet the operational needs of the proposed development. A new access road will be provided within the site to allow tankers access to the bunded fuel tanks. Although an access road will be constructed within the generator/transformer compound area, this will however be restricted due to health and safety risks. As such, vehicular or pedestrian access within the main power plant area will mostly be limited to maintenance engineer visits only. Typically, access within the site will be restricted up to the main gates/fuel filling point of the compound area. Adequate turning provision has been made within the application site to enable large vehicles to enter and leave the site in a forward gear, to the benefit of the free flow of vehicular movement in the area.

The level of traffic generated by the development is considered to be low. The submitted Design and Access Statement makes reference to the likely number of operational visits to the site, being on average 1 tanker trip per week and 1 maintenance engineer trip a day. In this regard, the Engineering and Highways Manager has raised no highway safety objections. As such, the proposed development is deemed acceptable in highway terms and does not run contrary to LDP Policy BW12. CONCLUSIONS The proposed power plant with associated generators, transformers and switch rooms are considered to be appropriately located within the Pengarnddu Difficult Business Park. Whilst the proposed development runs contrary to Policy AS24, it has been adequately demonstrated that the site is surplus to requirement, and on balance, the criteria of that policy do not need to be met in this instance. This does not prejudice the overall aims and objectives of Policy AS24. The general design of the development is considered to be acceptable and although it is visually obtrusive, the development is largely obscured by acoustic fencing, which minimises the visual impact on the area. The proposed development is considered to have a minimal impact on the value of the historical landscape and does not have an adverse impact on any statutory protected buildings, structures or landscapes. The application site is deemed to be of limited ecological value and the development of the site will not adversely impact on any protected species. The existing highway infrastructure and proposed access within the site is considered adequate to accommodate the proposed development without giving rise to highway safety concerns. The proposed development is considered to be acceptable in planning terms and appropriately meets the relevant aims and objectives contained within PPW and the LDP. Accordingly, the following recommendation is made: RECOMMENDATION: BE APPROVED subject to the following CONDITIONS 1. BEFORE works commence on site, details / samples relating to the external

finishes (walls and roof) of the WPD switch room hereby approved shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. All works carried out on site will be in accordance with such approved details.

Reason - In the interest of visual amenity. 2. BEFORE works commence on site, details relating to the colour of the proposed

security fencing and acoustic walling system hereby approved shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. All works carried out shall be in accordance with such approved details.

Reason - In the interest of visual amenity.

3. BEFORE works commence on site, details of the means of foul, surface water drainage (incorporating SUDS principles where appropriate) and septic tanks, shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. All works shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details and completed prior to beneficial use of the power plant.

Reason - To ensure the development meets with current drainage/engineering

requirements. 4. BEFORE any ground works commence on site the rubble piles identified on Plan 02

contained within the submitted Extended Phase 1 Habitat Survey July 2012 shall be dismantled and removed by hand only, in accordance with the recommendation set out in Section 7 of the above mentioned report.

Reason - To ensure no harm is caused to any reptiles within the site during the

removal of any potential habitats and ground works. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0149 12th June 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Erection of free standing sign Former Cinema Site

Adjacent To 1 Fox Street Treharris

Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council c/o Capita Symonds F.a.o. Eleri Davies Pencarn Avenue Imperial Park Coedkernew

APPLICATION SITE This application relates to a rectangular area of land measuring approximately 0.125 hectares with a maximum width of 25m and a maximum depth of 52m. The site was previously occupied by a cinema building which has long been demolished. The site is now largely characterised as an area of vacant grassed land that slopes downwards from north-west to south-east. The site is bounded to the north-west by Penn Street, to the south-west is Williams Terrace and to the south-east is Cardiff Road leading to Fox Street. Along the north-east boundary are two adjoining properties that form part of established terraces. To the north-

east corner of the site is a residential property that fronts onto Penn Street and to the south-east corner is a commercial property fronting onto Fox Street. Planning consent has recently been granted to re-landscape the site and provide an area of formal open space that can be utilised for public events, markets and car parking (Ref: P/12/0110). The site lies within the Treharris Conservation Area. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Advertisement consent is sought for the erection of a free standing sign located in the south-east corner of the application site adjacent to the footway linking Cardiff Road to Fox Street. The proposed sign will measure 2m high above ground level and 1.2m in width, and will consist of two stainless steel columns (painted black) with cast aluminium finials, supporting an advertising panel measuring 0.84m wide by 0.6m high. The sign is not illuminated. The purpose of the advertisement is to communicate information within the public realm as part of the wider regeneration proposals. PLANNING HISTORY P/12/0110 - Creation of public events square/parking facility with associated

amphitheatre, seating areas, retaining works, paving and public art work. Granted CONSENT on 27.06.2012

CONSULTATION Engineering and Highways Manager - No objection Town Planning Division’s Heritage Officer - No objection Welsh Water - No objection PUBLICITY In accordance with the Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2012, a site notice was displayed within the vicinity of the site and a press notice was displayed within the local newspaper. No representations were received as a result of this publicity exercise.

POLICY CONTEXT The following policies contained within the Merthyr Tydfil Local Development Plan 2006-2021 are relevant to the determination of this application: Policy BW6 - Townscape and built heritage. Policy BW7 - Sustainable design and place making. Planning Policy Wales Section 3.5 Control of outdoor advertisements and Technical Advice Note (TAN) 7 – Outdoor Advertisement Control are also relevant to the determination of this application. PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS The main considerations in the determination of this application relate to the general design of the proposed signage and its visual impact within the Treharris Conservation Area and the potential impact on public safety. Design The proposed free standing sign has been designed to complement the traditional character of the Treharris Conservation Area with the use of steel columns (painted black), finials and detailing at the base of the columns and brackets supporting the sign. It is considered that the sign is of an acceptable scale in terms of its height and width so not to have an overbearing impact on the existing or future public realm. In this regard it is noted that the ground level at the northern part of the application is at a much higher than the ground level where the proposed sign is to be located. Furthermore, the sign has been appropriately located, taking into account the future development of the site as a public events space, so not to constitute a discordant feature within the street-scene. It is acknowledged that the Heritage Officer has not raised any objection to the proposal. Highway Considerations The proposed sign is to be erected on a new wide paved area, which forms part of the proposed public events space. This is deemed to be a suitable location, away from the main footway, so not to impede on the free flow of pedestrian traffic. The sign will not be illuminated, thus minimising any distraction to drivers, particularly at night. The proposed sign is also set back from the main vehicular junction of Williams Terraces and Cardiff Road and away from the approved vehicular access into the parking bays serving the public events space. As such, the proposed sign will not adversely impinge on the visibility splays for vehicles utilising the adjoining highway or those entering and leaving the future car parking area. In this regard, it is noted that the Engineering and Highways Manager has raised no highway safety objection to the proposal.

CONCLUSION The proposed free standing sign is considered to be of an acceptable design and will not have an adverse impact on the character or visual amenity of the Treharris Conservation Area. The sign is located so not to impede on the free flow of vehicular or pedestrian traffic, nor will it be give rise to highway safety concerns. The proposed sign is considered to be acceptable in planning terms and does not run contrary to the LDP Policies or the advice set out in PPW and TAN7. Accordingly, the following recommendation is made: RECOMMENDATION: BE GRANTED ADVERTISEMENT CONSENT subject to

STANDARD ADVERTISEMENT CONSENT CONDITIONS

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Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0156 15th June 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Construction of walkway linking Cyfarthfa Park and Cyfarthfa Leat. Erection of tram feature with associated re-profiling works and steel railings

Cyfarthfa Leat And Old Tramway (land West Of Gurnos Villa) Cefn Coed Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council c/o Capita Glamorgan Consultancy F.a.o. Mr P West Ty Menter Unit G1 The Willowford

APPLICATION SITE The application relates to a 0.164ha linear area of land to the north of Cyfarthfa Park and to the south of the Gurnos Quarry Tramroad and Leat Scheduled Ancient Monument (GM478). The site is also bound by the property of Gurnos Villa to the north and Brecon Road to the east. The site occupies an area of land to the north of the junction of Brecon Road and Gurnos Road and stretches approximately 80m to the north, to a point where the Cyfarthfa Leat (feeder) begins. The site has an approximate width of 19m. The site, which has an east-west rise, contains a footpath, some specimen trees and is surfaced with grass.

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Full planning consent is sought for the construction of part of a walkway linking Cyfarthfa Park with Cyfarthfa Leat. The scheme is proposed as an amendment to part of a previously approved scheme (P/11/0089) for the restoration of the Gurnos Quarry Tramroad and Leat. The works include, but are not exclusively confined to:

• The construction of a 1.8m wide footway approximately 75m in length;

• The re-grading of the topography;

• The erection of a steel post and rail fence;

• The construction of a drainage outlet;

• The construction of a ‘tram’ entrance feature;

PLANNING HISTORY The planning history considered relevant in the determination of this application is as follows: P/11/0089 Gurnos Quarry Tramroad and Leat, to the South West of Lakeside

Gardens and North East of Taff Fechan. Restoration and improvements of Gurnos Quarry Tramroad and Leat,

including repair works to existing walls and embankments and associated retaining works. The erection of 2 No. footbridges, a gateway structure, stone boundary walls and access gates. The creation of new footpaths and a ramped walkway and two disabled parking spaces. The installation of 2 No. replacement pipes to Leat channel

Full planning consent approved on 29th July 2011

Scheduled Ancient Monument Consent was also approved by Cadw on the 28th March 2011 for the above development. In addition to the above planning consent, a minor amendment was requested to the scheme, requiring the re-orientation of a 5 metre section of the approved entrance footpath which is subject of this planning application. This minor amendment was allowed in November 2011. The planning application before Committee now requires a substantial amendment to the footpath.

CONSULTATION The following statutory consultees were consulted on this planning application. Their comments are listed below: Internal Consultees

Engineering and Highways Manager

A claimed right of way passes through the development site (103/2x). This must be protected at all times. Contact with the Council’s Rights of Way section is advised prior to the commencement of development.

Town Planning Division’s Countryside Officer

Notes an inaccuracy within the planning application form in that the site is, in fact, located within proximity of European Protected Species, an SSSI and SINC.

Town Planning Division’s Landscape Architect

No objection.

Public Protection Manager No response.

External Consultees

Cadw

Countryside Council for Wales

No response. No objection.

Environment Agency

The applicant is advised that flood defence consent is required should the works be located within 7 metres of any floodbank or wall.

Wales and West Utilities

No response.

Welsh Water

No objection, subject to a number of standard conditions.

Western Power Distribution

No response.

Councillors should note that the Town Planning Division’s Design, Heritage and Conservation Officer was not consulted for his views on this application, as he is the Case Officer for the application. PUBLICITY AND THIRD PARTY RESPONSES

In accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012, the application was publicised by means of sending individual consultation letters to neighbouring properties on the 27th June 2012. Two site notices were also displayed within the vicinity of the site on the 4th July 2012. A notice was also published in the local newspaper on 26th June 2012.

No objections or responses were received in response to this publicity. POLICY CONTEXT

The following policies are relevant in the determination of this application:

National Planning Policy

Planning Policy Wales (Edition 4: 2011) This is the Welsh Assembly Government’s principal planning policy. Section 6.5 recognises the importance of protecting the historic environment.

Paragraph 6.5.17 states that:

“Should proposed development conflict with the objective of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of a conservation area or its setting, there will be a strong presumption against the grant of planning permission”.

The effect upon the Cyfarthfa Conservation Area is a material consideration in determining this application as well as the impact upon the setting of Cyfarthfa Park. Welsh Office Circular 61/96 “Planning the Historic Environment: Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas” Part 2 of Para 30 acknowledges that Conservation Areas include buildings which make little or no contribution to its character and appearance; therefore it is important that changes to these buildings should be designed to respect the context of the Conservation Area.

Local Planning Policy

Merthyr Tydfil Local Development Plan (2006-2021)

Policy BW6 (Townscape and Built Heritage) of the Local Development Plan states that:

“The Council will protect and support the enhancement of the unique built heritage of the County Borough. Development proposals will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated they would preserve or enhance the architectural quality, character and setting of any of the following:

• Listed Buildings; • Scheduled Ancient Monuments; • Conservation Areas; • Registered Historic Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest; • Townscape character, and the local distinctiveness of settlements; • Other historic, archaeological and cultural features of acknowledged

importance”.

Regard should therefore be given to the setting and character of the Conservation Area as well as the impact upon Scheduled Ancient Monuments and Historic Parks and Gardens.

PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS Alterations to Entrance The proposals require a number of changes from the approved permission (P/11/0089) for a footpath linking Cyfarthfa Park and the Cyfarthfa Leat/Feeder. This includes the realignment of a footpath to avoid utility apparatus and the resultant re-grading of land fronting Gurnos Villa to accommodate this. Additionally, the proposals will result in the re-location of the proposed tram feature to a more prominent area at the junction of Brecon Road and Gurnos Road and the removal of a new masonry wall from the proposals. The proposals, as submitted, comprise of the construction of a 1.8m wide footpath from a point approximately 18m north of the junction of Gurnos Road and Brecon Road, to a point to the north alongside where the Cyfarthfa Leat/Feeder terminates. The proposed footpath will be approximately 75m in length. The footpath will be of a bitmac construction with a surface course finish. The details and colouring of this finish are yet to be confirmed. However, the finish is of a similar specification to that which was approved as part of planning permission P/11/0089. The proposed surface type is therefore considered to be acceptable. Comments from the Council’s Engineering and Highways Manager require the protection of a claimed right of way (103/2x) passing the site. The proposals are considered to provide a continuation of this. In order to facilitate these works, the proposals will require a cut into the embankment along Brecon Road. This cutting will be at a maximum depth of 1m. This will result in the screening of part of the footpath from the public highway. These works are considered to have a lower impact on the locality than the approved plans. In terms of additional boundary treatments, the steel post fencing being proposed is considered acceptable, due to its use at the nearby Grade II Listed Cefn Bridge. It is considered relevant that a condition is added to any permission to ensure that the new fencing to be of similar proportions to this feature. The tram entrance feature is approximately 1.62m in length and 0.74m in width, surrounded to its rear by a rubblestone wall. The tram is to be constructed of cast iron, finished in black with body work in oak timber. This is considered appropriate in replicating a feature which was synonymous with the former use of the Gurnos Quarry Tramway. The relocation of the tram feature to a more prominent area, at the junction between Brecon Road and Gurnos Road will allow it to fulfil its purpose as an entrance feature. No objection was received from the Council’s Engineering and Highways Manager as to the impact of this feature. Environmental Considerations The Countryside Council for Wales, the Environment Agency and the Town Planning Division’s Countryside Officer were consulted on this planning application. It was concluded that the proposals would have no undue impact upon nearby environmental designations. Utilities Considerations Welsh Water advised that no building should be permitted 3 metres either side of the public sewer which runs across the site. The submitted plans indicate that the only new

building, which is the ‘tram’ feature, will be located in excess of 3 metres from this public sewer. Accordingly, no Welsh Water apparatus will be impacted upon as a result of this development. CONCLUSIONS The design and practicalities of the proposals are considered to be appropriate. Following extensive consultation, there were no objections from external statutory consultees. Furthermore, internal consultees have considered that the proposals are acceptable in highways, biodiversity, conservation and landscape terms, subject to the imposition of a number of conditions. Accordingly, the following recommendation is made: RECOMMENDATION: BE APPROVED subject to the following CONDITIONS: 1. BEFORE the commencement of development details/samples of all external

finishes indicated in Drawing No. CHPL3-01 shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority and all works undertaken shall be completed in accordance with such approved details. Details of the following aspects are required.

(i) Surface finishes to footpaths;

(ii) Surface finishes to the sidings of the embankment cutting;

(iii) Sample sections of the proposed steel post rail fencing;

(iv) Timber and cast-iron finishes to the tram feature. Reason - In the interest of visual amenity and to ensure that external finishes

respect the character of the Conservation Area. 2. No surface water shall be allowed to connect, either directly or indirectly, to the

public sewerage system unless otherwise approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.

Reason - To prevent hydraulic overloading of the public sewerage system, to

protect the health and safety of existing residents and ensure no detriment to the environment.

3. Land drainage run-off shall not be permitted to discharge, either directly or

indirectly, into the public sewerage system. Reason - To prevent hydraulic overload of the public sewerage system and

pollution of the environment. INFORMATIVES 1. A claimed Right of Way (103/2x) crosses the site. This must be protected at all

times. Contact with Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council's Rights of Way Section is advised prior to the commencement of development.

2. The Taf Fechan is a designated main river. The developer must obtain a flood

defence consent from the Environment Agency prior to any works in, under or over the watercourse, or within 7 metres of the base of any floodbank or wall, or where there is no bank or wall within 7 metres of the top of the riverbank, prior to the commencement of development.

3. The proposed development site is crossed by a public sewer, marked on the

Statutory Public Sewer Record. Under the Water Industry Act 1991 Dwr Cymru Welsh Water has rights of access to its apparatus at all times. No part of the proposed tram structure will be permitted within 3 metres either side of the centre line of the public sewer.

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Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0168 4th July 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Erection of single storey side porch

Cefn Coed RFC Station Road Cefn Coed Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2NB

Cefn Coed RFC c/o Stephen George Architects 25 Courtland Terrace Merthyr Tydfil CF47 0DT

APPLICATION SITE This application relates to a rugby football club building located within the predominantly residential area of Cefn Coed. The building is single storey in height and lies within a small curtilage. The site is bounded to the north by the main highway serving the site known as Maes y Garreg. To the west are adjoining dwellings and to the south and east are apartment blocks (Ty Penderyn). PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Full planning consent is sought for the erection of a single storey porch on the west facing (side) elevation of the building. The proposed porch would be 4.2m in width by 2.1m in depth and would have a mono-pitched roof with a maximum height of 3.65m. A set of double doors would be set back 1.8m inside the porch and a roller shutter door would be

featured in the north facing elevation of the porch. The external elevational walls of the porch would be finished with painted textured render to match the existing building and the roof would be finished with colour coated profiled metal roof cladding. PLANNING HISTORY The relevant planning history is detailed below: P/10/0145 Erection of single storey rear extension and erection of new roof and

cladding Granted planning consent, 23 September 2010 P/11/0192 Erection of single storey front extension and canopy with smoking area and

bin store. Creation of new side entrance with canopy. Alterations to the existing access with associated landscaping scheme.

Granted planning consent, 26 September 2011 CONSULTATION The following bodies were consulted and their responses are presented below: Engineering & Highways Manager No objection Public Protection Manager No response South Wales Fire Service No response Dwr Cymru Welsh Water No objection PUBLICITY In accordance with the Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012, letters were sent to the adjoining occupants and three site notices were displayed within the vicinity of the site. No letters of objection were received following this publicity exercise. POLICY CONTEXT The following policies of the Merthyr Tydfil Borough Local Development Plan 2006-2021 are relevant to the determination of this application.

• BW1: Development Strategy - Primary Growth Area

• BW7: Sustainable design and place making

• BW12: Development proposals and transport

• BW15: Community facilities

• TB11: Access, parking and accessibility of local facilities PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS The proposed porch is considered to be of an acceptable design and scale which is sympathetic to the host building. Accordingly, it is not considered that the proposed porch

would adversely impact on the character and visual amenities of the building itself or indeed the area in general. Similarly, it is not considered that the proposed porch would impinge upon residential amenities to an extent that would warrant its refusal. In this respect it is noted that no representations were received following the publicity exercise. The Design and Access Statement which accompanies this planning application indicates that a new ramped access with a level platform would be provided within the shelter of the new porch. This will ensure that this entrance is accessible to a wide range of users including non-ambulant visitors. Accordingly, as the proposal is considered to be acceptable, the following recommendation is made: RECOMMENDATION: BE APPROVED subject to the following CONDITION: 1. BEFORE any works commence on site, full details of the roller shutter serving the

porch hereby approved shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority and all works subsequently carried out shall in full accordance with such approved details unless otherwise approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority.

Reason - In the interests of visual amenity INFORMATIVES 1. Some public sewers and lateral drains may not be recorded on Dwr Cymru Welsh

Water’s maps of public sewers because they were originally privately owned and were transferred into public ownership by nature of the Water Industry (Schemes for Adoption of Private Sewers) Regulations 2011. The presence of such assets may affect the proposal. In order to assist Dwr Cymru Welsh Water in dealing with the proposal they have requested the applicant contact their Operations Contract Centre on 0800 085 3968 to establish the location and status of the sewer. Under the Water Industry Act 1991 Dwr Cymru Welsh Water has rights of access to its apparatus at all times.

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Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0172 11th July 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Erection of new boundary fence to the southern boundary of the new campus building

Merthyr Tydfil College Ynysfach Merthyr Tydfil CF48 1AR

Merthyr Tydfil College c/o Boyes Rees Architects F.a.o. Mr G David 4th Floor Greyfriars House Greyfriars Road Cardiff

APPLICATION SITE The application relates to a parcel of land to the south of the new college building that is currently under construction. This parcel of land has a steep profile which slopes upwards from the east to the west. Within the application site is an existing public walkway and steps.

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Full planning consent is sought for the erection of a new boundary fence to the southern boundary of the land surrounding the new campus building. The new fence is proposed to replace a 96m long section of existing palisade fencing to provide additional security. The new fence would connect to the existing palisade fence at the top of the embankment to the south-west of the new college building. The new fencing would follow the line of the existing fencing for a length of 19m in a south-east direction, before then following the route of the existing palisade fencing in a southern direction for approximately 13m, where it runs parallel to the steps which form the existing walkway to the south of the college building. The next 57m section of the new fencing is positioned slightly further to the south than the existing fencing (by between 1-2m). At the bottom of the steps, the proposed fencing then turns 90 degrees towards a northerly direction where is joins the south elevation of the college building. The new fencing would be steel welded mesh colour coated green. It would have a minimum height of 3m and due to the varying profile of the land the fencing would reach a maximum of 5m. PLANNING HISTORY The relevant planning history of the site is detailed below: P/12/0151 Variation of conditions 19 and 20 of Planning Permission P/11/0235 (relating

to submission of BREEAM Certificates) Granted planning consent subject to conditions, 26 July 2012

P/11/0235 Variation of conditions 11, 15, 18, 19 and 20 of Planning Permission P/11/0109

Granted planning consent subject to conditions, 21 October 2011

P/11/0109 Erection of new 13,500sq m, 5 storey building for Merthyr Tydfil College (Demolition of dutch barn, caretakers house, small outbuildings and demolition of existing college building after completion of new building)

Granted planning consent subject to conditions, 1 August 2011

CONSULTATION

The following bodies were consulted and their responses are presented below:

Engineering & Highways Manager No objection subject to condition

Dwr Cymru Welsh Water No objection PUBLICITY

In accordance with the Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012, four site notices were displayed within the vicinity of the site. No letters of objection were received following this publicity exercise.

POLICY CONTEXT The following policies of the Merthyr Tydfil Borough Local Development Plan 2006-2021 are relevant to the determination of this application.

• BW1: Development Strategy - Primary Growth Area

• BW7: Sustainable design and place making

• BW15: Community facilities

• TB11: Access, parking and accessibility of local facilities PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS The proposed fencing is considered to be of an acceptable design and appearance. It is noted that it would be quite substantial in height, but given its location and the fact that it is highly permeable and required for security, it is not considered that it would adversely impact on the character or visual amenities of the area. It is also noted that at one point, the proposed fencing would join the existing palisade fencing being retained. At this point, the two different types of fencing would obviously meet one another. Whilst it would be preferable if the new fence type was to replace the existing palisade fencing in its entirety, it is not considered that the visual impact created by utilising two different fence types would be detrimental enough to warrant the refusal of the application on such grounds. Regard has been had for the potential impact of the proposed fencing on the amenities of the surrounding occupants. However, as the nearest dwellings are located 20m from the proposed fencing, it is not considered that it would have any significant impact. It is also noted that no representations were received following the publicity exercise. Consideration has been had for accessibility and in this respect it is not considered that the proposed development would have any significant impact. The fencing would not impinge upon the existing public walkway, and a gate within the fencing would allow access to the perimeter of the college building for authorised persons. The fencing would not impinge upon the access arrangements into the college building itself. Finally, it is acknowledged that there is a footpath within the application site which the Engineering and Highways Manager has requested be kept open throughout the duration of the works. This can be dealt with through a suitably worded condition. Accordingly the following recommendation is made: RECOMMENDATION: BE APPROVED subject to the following CONDITION: 1. Public access along the adopted footway within the application site shall be

maintained at all times. BEFORE works commence on site, details regarding safety measures for footway users throughout the duration of the works shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority and any details thereby approved shall be implemented in full.

Reason - In the interest of public access and safety.

INFORMATIVES 1. The applicant / developer is strongly advised to liaise with Hyder Consulting Ltd

(Network Development Consultants - Southern, Tel 01443 331155) in relation to any connections to the public sewer and/or to any works which affect the line of or are in close proximity to existing public sewers and/or water mains.

2. The applicant is advised that the application site includes an adopted footway which

must be kept open at all times. Accordingly, the applicant is advised to contact Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council’s Highways Division.

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Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0176 10th July 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Installation of 1 No. name plate sign, 1 No. fascia sign and 1 No. free standing sign

Pupil Referral Unit Alexandra Avenue Penydarren Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council c/o Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council F.a.o. Mr A Roberts Unit 5, Triangle Business Park Pentrebach Merthyr Tydfil

APPLICATION SITE This application relates to a former Pupil Referral Unit, now being utilised as offices for public sector services, located within a predominantly residential area of Penydarren. The application building is single storey in height and benefits from a generous curtilage. It also benefits from its own dedicated vehicle access and off-street parking facilities. The site is bounded by Alexandra Avenue to the north, an access lane to the west (at the rear of Gwendoline Street) and the properties known as 1-9 Briarmead to the east and south.

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Advertisement consent is sought for the installation of 1 no. fascia sign, 1 no. name-plate sign and 1 no. free-standing sign. The proposed fascia sign would be installed above the main entrance of the building, replacing an existing fascia sign. The base of the sign would be at a height of 2.5m above ground level, with the sign being a maximum height of 2.8m above ground level. The proposed sign would be 0.30m in height, 1.5m in width and 0.005m in depth, and would be constructed of aluminium composite material. The sign would be fixed to a plywood hoarding, 0.025m in width. The sign would comprise the words “Ty Homfray”, in white lettering on an orange background, along with the Flying Start logo. The proposed freestanding sign would be erected on top of the existing front boundary wall of the site, between two metal posts. The base of the sign would be at a height of 1.6m above ground level, with the sign being a maximum height of 2.5m above ground level. The proposed sign would be 0.90m in height, 1.5m in width and 0.005m in depth, and would be constructed of aluminium composite material. The sign would comprise the words “Ty Homfray” and “Flying Start”, in white lettering on an orange background, along with the Flying Start logo, the Welsh Government logo, and the MTCBC logo. The proposed name-plate sign would be installed on the rear boundary wall of the site, adjacent to the rear access gate. The base of the sign would be at a height of 0.38m above ground level, with the sign being a maximum height of 1.28m above ground level. The proposed sign would be 0.90m in height, 0.9m in width and 0.005m in depth, and would be constructed of aluminium composite material. The sign would be fixed to a plywood hoarding, 0.025m in width. The sign would comprise the words “Ty Homfray” and “Flying Start”, in white lettering on an orange background, along with the Flying Start logo, the Welsh Government logo, and the MTCBC logo. PLANNING HISTORY The following recent planning history relates to the site; P/10/0338 Change of use from educational facility to offices

Granted Planning Consent 15/12/10 CONSULTATION The following body was consulted and their response is presented below: Engineering & Highways Manager No objection Dwr Cymru Welsh Water No response PUBLICITY

In accordance with the The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012, letters were sent to the adjoining dwellings.

No representations have been received to this publicity exercise.

POLICY CONTEXT

Local Planning Policy There are no policies within the Council’s adopted Local Development Plan relating specifically to advertisements. National Planning Policy Section 3.5 of Planning Policy Wales and TAN (Technical Advice Note) 7 – Outdoor Advertisement Control are relevant to the determination of this application. PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS Planning Policy Wales states that applications for advertisement consent fall to be considered on the grounds of public safety and amenity. In assessing an advertisement’s impact on public safety, the test is whether its location is likely to be distracting or confusing to such an extent that it creates a hazard or endangers people in the vicinity. In assessing an advertisement’s impact on amenity, the test is whether it will adversely affect the appearance of the surrounding area. The proposed signs are considered to be of an appropriate design and scale and therefore acceptable in planning terms. It is noted that the proposed fascia sign merely replaces an existing sign of similar dimensions. Furthermore, it is acknowledged that signs such as these are often visible at the offices of public and private organisations, in order to highlight their existence and location. It is therefore not considered that the proposed signs would have a detrimental impact on the character of the host building or the wider area, or that they would adversely impact on visual amenity. Regard has also been had for the impact of the signs on the amenities of the local residents. In this respect it is not considered that the proposed signs would have an impact on any of the surrounding residents and it is noted that no objections have been received following the publicity exercise. Finally, whilst two of the proposed signs would be in close proximity to a highway, the Highways Division have not objected to the proposed signage. Therefore, it is not considered that they would impinge upon highway or pedestrian safety. Accordingly the following recommendation is made: RECOMMENDATION: BE GRANTED subject to STANDARD ADVERTISEMENT

CONSENT CONDITIONS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0208 10th August 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Installation of solar photovoltaic modules to the flat and pitched roofs

Bishop Hedley High School Gwaunfarren Road Penydarren Merthyr Tydfil CF47 9AN

Bishop Hedley High School c/o Gatehouse Energy F.a.o. Mark Scully Lancaster Environment Centre Lancaster University Lancaster

APPLICATION SITE This application relates to the roof of a secondary school in the residential area of Penydarren. The school is split into two distinct sites, divided by the highway of Gwaunfarren Road. This application relates to the southern site, which comprises three large school buildings, together with associated grounds and a caretaker’s residence. The site is bounded to the front by the highway of Gwaunfarren Road, to one side and rear by playing fields, and to the other side by the rear lanes of residential streets.

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Full planning consent is sought for the installation of 192 solar photovoltaic panels across the roofs of two of the school buildings. 144 panels will be installed on a building with a pitched roof, and 48 will be installed on a flat-roofed building. The flat-roofed building is three-storeys in height. The roof serving this building measures approximately 805 square metres in area. The proposed solar panels to be installed on this roof will cover a surface area of approximately 297 square metres. These solar panels will be fitted to the existing roof planes, at an angle of 15 degrees, with a maximum projection of 0.4m when measured perpendicularly from the roof surface. The panels, including their frames, will individually measure 1.14m in depth and 0.98m in width. The panels will be fitted side-by-side in rows. The rows will be 0.85m apart, and individual panels will be a maximum of 0.02m apart. The panels will be set back from the edge of the roof by a minimum of 1m. The pitched-roof building is four-storeys in height. The roof serving this building measures approximately 682 square metres in area. The proposed solar panels to be installed on this roof will cover a surface area of approximately 341 square metres, and will be fitted on the south-west facing roof plane. These solar panels will be fitted parallel to the pitched roof planes, with a maximum projection of 0.8m when measured perpendicularly from the roof plane. The panels, including their frames, will individually measure 1.638m in depth, 0.98m in width and a maximum of 0.04m in height. The panels will be fitted alongside one another in 4 rows of 36. Individual panels will be a maximum of 0.02m apart. The panels will be set back from the edge of the roof by a minimum of 1m. PLANNING HISTORY P/96/0208 Demolition of existing sports hall & replacement with new one Granted consent 07/06/96 CONSULTATION Engineering and Highways Manager No response Dwr Cymru Welsh Water No response PUBLICITY In accordance with the Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012, two site notices were displayed within the vicinity of the site. No representations were received to this publicity exercise.

POLICY CONTEXT Merthyr Tydfil Local Development Plan 2006-2021 Policy BW7 - Sustainable design and place making. Policy TB7 - Renewable energy. PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS Due to the nature of the proposed development to retro-fit solar photovoltaic panels to the roof plane of an existing structure, the main planning considerations largely relate to the potential impact on visual amenity and the character of the host buildings and wider area. The solar panels will be located on the roofs of 2 multi-storey school buildings and will project a maximum of 0.4m above the roof planes. They will also be set back from the edge of the roof by a minimum of 1m, and therefore they will not constitute a particularly prominent feature. Additionally, given the heights of the buildings, the roofs will not be visible from the majority of the surrounding area. The roof of the pitched-roof building is somewhat visible from the north of the site, as this area is on a higher level. However, given that the buildings are set back at least 40m from the boundary of the site, and given the relatively high boundary fence and trees surrounding the site, it is not considered that the panels would be readily visible. Therefore it is not considered that the proposed solar panels would have any significant effect on the character or visual amenities of the surrounding area. It is acknowledged that the solar panels will present a different external finish to the roof of the host building, however, they will not be easily noticeable from the surrounding area. Additionally, when viewed from a distance, these panels will be seen as an integral part of the existing building and will be unlikely to have an unacceptable impact on the character or visual amenity of the host building. Furthermore, it is noted that no objections were received following the publicity exercise. The proposed development will have no impact on highway safety or existing access arrangements. The solar panels are deemed to be acceptable in design terms and are generally supported by Policies BW7 and TB7 relating to sustainable design and renewable energy. Indeed Policy TB7 states that proposals that contribute to local renewable energy will be considered favourably, where it does not have a negative impact on ecology, landscape settings and the amenity of residential area. The proposed development is considered acceptable in planning terms and does not run contrary to the adopted LDP policies. Accordingly, the following recommendation is made: RECOMMENDATION: BE APPROVED ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0209 10th August 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Installation of solar photovoltaic modules to roof

St Aloysius RC Primary School Cedar Way Gurnos Merthyr Tydfil CF47 9PA

St Aloysius RC Primary School c/o Gatehouse Energy F.a.o. Mark Scully Lancaster Environment Centre Lancaster University Lancaster

APPLICATION SITE This application relates to the roof of a primary school in the residential area of Gurnos. The site is bounded to the front by the highway of Cedar Way, to one side and rear by playing fields, and to the other side by another primary school.

PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT Full planning consent is sought for the installation of 72 solar photovoltaic panels across the flat roof of the main school building. The roof of the school building measures approximately 988 square metres in area. The proposed solar panels to be installed will cover a surface area of approximately 548 square metres. The solar panels will be fitted to the existing roof, at an angle of 15 degrees, with a maximum projection of 0.4m when measured perpendicularly from the roof plane. The panels, including their frames, will individually measure 1.14m in depth, 0.98m in width and a maximum of 0.4m in height. The panels will be fitted side-by-side in rows. The rows will be 0.85m apart, and individual panels will be a maximum of 0.02m apart. The panels will be set back from the edge of the roof by a minimum of 1m. PLANNING HISTORY P/00/0040 Proposed enclosure to courtyard Granted consent 05/04/00 CONSULTATION Engineering and Highways Manager No objection Dwr Cymru Welsh Water No response PUBLICITY In accordance with the Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (Wales) Order 2012, two site notices were displayed within the vicinity of the site. No representations were received to this publicity exercise. POLICY CONTEXT Merthyr Tydfil Local Development Plan 2006-2021 Policy BW7 - Sustainable design and place making. Policy TB7 - Renewable energy. PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS Due to the nature of the proposed development to retro-fit solar photovoltaic panels to the roof plane of an existing structure, the main planning considerations largely relate to the potential impact on visual amenity and the character of the host buildings and wider area. The solar panels will be located on the roof of a large, single-storey school building and will project a maximum of 0.4m above the roof surface. They will also be set back from the

edge of the roof by a minimum of 1m, and therefore they will not constitute a particularly prominent feature. Additionally, the grounds of the school are surrounded by a large number of mature trees, which block the view of the school building from the adjacent sports fields and residential area. Therefore it is not considered that the proposed solar panels would have any significant effect on the character or visual amenities of the surrounding area. It is acknowledged that the solar panels will present a different external finish to the roof of the host building, however, they will not be easily noticeable from the surrounding area. Additionally, when viewed from a distance, these panels will be seen as an integral part of the existing building and will be unlikely to have an unacceptable impact on the character or visual amenity of the host building. Furthermore, it is noted that no objections were received following the publicity exercise. The proposed development will have no impact on highway safety or existing access arrangements. The solar panels are deemed to be acceptable in design terms and are generally supported by Policies BW7 and TB7 relating to sustainable design and renewable energy. Indeed Policy TB7 states that proposals that contribute to local renewable energy will be considered favourably, where it does not have a negative impact on ecology, landscape settings and the amenity of residential area. The proposed development is considered acceptable in planning terms and does not run contrary to the adopted LDP policies. Accordingly, the following recommendation is made: RECOMMENDATION: BE APPROVED -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR INFORMATION

2.1 PLANNING APPLICATION NO: P/10/0014 TRAGO MILLS SHOPPING CENTRE AND LEISURE PARK, FORMER HEOLGERRIG BRICKWORKS, SWANSEA ROAD – ERECTION OF EXTENSION TO PREVIOUSLY APPROVED BUILDING

An information report was presented to the Planning, Regulatory & Licensing Committee on the 18th January 2012 informing members that, the above application had been disposed of in accordance with article 25 (11) of the Town and Country Planning (General Development Procedure) Order 1995. (Minute No 657 refers). This action was taken due to the applicant’s failure to submit further information that had been requested by the Planning Division. Following receipt of notification that the application had been disposed of, the applicants presented minutes to the Council of a meeting held in April 2011 between themselves, Welsh Government Highways and the Council’s Engineering Manager and Principal Highways Engineer. The Planning Division were unaware that this meeting had taken place when disposing of the application. The applicant has assured the Council that they are committed to developing the site and that they will submit the information required by the Planning Division in order to determine the application within agreed timescales if the application is re-instated. In consideration of the above, the Chief Executive on behalf of the Local Planning Authority has taken the decision to reinstate the application in accordance with the delegated powers granted to him in consultation with the Leader of the Council and the Portfolio Member for Business and Regulatory services. The Chief Executive considers this to be a reasonable approach to take and has had due regard to the fact that there may be a possibility of the decision to reinstate being judicially reviewed. The application will be presented to Committee for determination in due course.

2.2 PLANNING APPLICATION APPEALS RECEIVED BY

THE PLANNING INSPECTORATE (FOR INFORMATION)

Application No. Date Determining Authority P/11/0354 15th December 2011 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Retention of roller shutter door to alleyway

49A Perrott Street Treharris CF46 5ET

Mr A Grzesica c/o Mr Paul Thomas Utopia Design 5 Amberton Place Penydarren Merthyr Tydfil

TYPE OF APPEAL: AGAINST REFUSAL APPEAL REF NO. APP/U6925/A/12/2180480 DATE APPEAL RECEIVED: 30 JULY 2012 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0051 24th February 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Erection of first floor extension over garage

Millbrooke 23 Plymouth Street Merthyr Tydfil CF47 0TT

Mr G Quinlan c/o Philip Griffiths 3 St Johns Close Cefn Coed Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2PE

TYPE OF APPEAL: AGAINST REFUSAL APPEAL REF NO. APP/U6925/A/12/2181257/WF DATE APPEAL RECEIVED: 15TH AUGUST 2012 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Application No. Date Determining Authority P/12/0102 13th April 2012 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Erection of two storey side extension incorporating ground floor carport and first floor bedroom

1 Corporation Street Penyard Merthyr Tydfil CF47 0HP

Mr K Saunderson c/o Mr W. Scorey 1 Glanynys Cottages Cwmbach Road Aberdare CF44 0NN

TYPE OF APPEAL: AGAINST REFUSAL APPEAL REF NO. APP/U6925/A/12/2180718/WF DATE APPEAL RECEIVED: 10TH AUGUST 2012 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2.3 ENFORCEMENT APPEALS RECEIVED FROM THE PLANNING

INSPECTORATE (FOR INFORMATION)

Enforcement No. Date Complaint

Received

Determining Authority

PE/10/0255 13th October 2010 MTCBC Nature of Complaint Location A hot tub has been placed on top of a garage

12 Haydn Terrace Penydarren Merthyr Tydfil CF47 9UX

DATE ENFORCEMENT NOTICE SERVED: 27TH JULY 2012 DATE ENFORCEMENT NOTICE WOULD HAVE TAKEN EFFECT: 28TH AUGUST 2012 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Enforcement No. Date Complaint

Received

Determining Authority

PE/11/0194 31st October 2011 MTCBC Nature of Complaint Location Unauthorised summer house and decking

5 Edwards Terrace High Street Trelewis Treharris CF46 6AR

DATE ENFORCEMENT NOTICE SERVED: 27TH JULY 2012 DATE ENFORCEMENT NOTICE WOULD HAVE TAKEN EFFECT: 28TH AUGUST 2012 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2.4 APPEAL DETERMINED BY THE PLANNING INSPECTORATE

(FOR INFORMATION)

Application No. Date Determining Authority P/11/0249 7th September 2011 MTCBC Proposed Development Location Name & Address of

Applicant/Agent Retention of replacement windows inserted into front elevation and replacement roller shutter curtain

97 High Street Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8UD

Mr P Reardon c/o Drawing And Surveying Services 3 Thornbury Close Clwydyfagwr Merthyr Tydfil CF48 1HP

TYPE OF APPEAL: AGAINST REFUSAL

APPEAL REF NO. APP/U6925/A/12/2174837

DATE DECISION RECEIVED: 30TH JULY 2012

DECISION: DISMISSED ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2.5 PLANNING APPLICATION STATISTICS: JULY 2012 (FOR INFORMATION)

The planning statistics relating to July 2012 are provided below.

Brought

Forward

Received Determined Withdrawn Carried

Forward

July 78 34 27 4 81

These “Carried Forward” figures have been categorised below so that Councillors are aware of the age of outstanding applications. The corresponding data for September 2011 – June 2012 is also provided below.

Under 8

weeks

Between

8 – 13

weeks

13 weeks –

6 months

Over 6

months

Total

Carried

Forward

September 2011 38 7 10 20 75

October 2011 49 9 13 21 92

November 2011 60 5 13 17 95

December 2011 44 7 8 16 75

January 2012 37 9 10 17 73

February 2012 48 3 13 15 79

March 2012 52 5 11 14 82

April 2012 42 13 8 17 80

May 2012 33 9 4 22 68

June 2012 41 11 4 22 78

July 2012 48 7 6 20 81

2.6 DELEGATED DECISION REPORT LIST: JULY & AUGUST 2012

App No Site Proposal Decision Date of

Decision

P/11/0140 Cwmblacks Cottage

Cwmblacks Farm

Mountain Hare

Twynyrodyn

Merthyr Tydfil

Erection of 2 No. two storey

side extensions (to either side of

host dwelling), erection of new

pitched roof to cover host

dwelling and proposed

extensions, erection of front

porch and side porch with

balcony above, increase height

of existing chimneys, erection of

retaining wall and other

external alterations to dwelling

Full Approval 02/07/2012

P/12/0097 Land At Cardiff Street

Abercanaid

Merthyr Tydfil

Demolition of existing garage

and erection of block of 3 No.

garages

Refusal 25/07/2012

P/12/0100 19 Chestnut Way

Gurnos

Merthyr Tydfil

CF47 9SB

Change of use from post office

to tanning and beauty salon

Full Approval 02/08/2012

P/12/0102 1 Corporation Street

Penyard

Merthyr Tydfil

CF47 0HP

Erection of two storey side

extension incorporating ground

floor carport and first floor

bedroom

Refusal 20/07/2012

P/12/0118 Unit 1 & 2 Cyfarthfa

Industrial Estate

Merthyr Tydfil

CF47 8PE

Demolition of existing boiler

houses and storage areas, re-

surfacing and extension of

existing rear yard area and

erection of palisade fence and

sliding gates

Full Approval 03/07/2012

P/12/0125 Fir Tree Bungalow

Pontycapel Road

Cefn Coed

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 2RD

Change existing car port into

study

Full Approval 16/07/2012

App No Site Proposal Decision Date of

Decision

P/12/0127 Trade Centre Wales

Pant Industrial Estate

Dowlais

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 2SR

Retention of signage to building

and within curtilage

Refusal

(Advertisement)

19/07/2012

P/12/0130 7 Phyllis Street

Troedyrhiw

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 4JN

Replacement of flat roof of

extension with pitched roof;

reduce size of rear extension;

and alter position of window

and door openings

Full Approval 20/07/2012

P/12/0131 2 Oakfield Street

Aberfan

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 4QB

Erection of rear single storey

extension

Full Approval 18/07/2012

P/12/0132 Barclays Bank

9 Aberfan Road

Aberfan

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 4QL

Installation of 1 No. fascia signs,

1 No. projecting signs and 2 No.

nameplate signs

Advertisement

Approval

16/07/2012

P/12/0133 6 Brynheulog Street

Penydarren

Merthyr Tydfil

CF47 9UY

Single storey extension to

existing single storey rear

annexe and new roof cover to

both

Full Approval 17/07/2012

P/12/0134 21 Diana Street

Troedyrhiw

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 4EX

Retention of decking and

fencing and erection of shed

Full Approval 26/07/2012

P/12/0141 1& 2 Pentwyn Cottages

Pentwyn Road

Quakers Yard

Treharris

CF46 5BT

Conversion of Nos 1 & 2

Pentwyn Cottages into one

property and erection of

conservatory to rear of No. 1

Full Approval 30/07/2012

P/12/0143 Vaynor Workshops

Upper Vaynor Road

Trefechan

Merthyr Tydfil

Change of use of site to B2 and

B8 usage, with retention of sui

generis use (haulage contractor)

to part of site

Full Approval 31/07/2012

App No Site Proposal Decision Date of

Decision

P/12/0144 Asda Stores

Pengarnddu Industrial

Estate

Dowlais Top

Merthyr Tydfil

Removal of cattle grid, infilling

and re surfacing

Full Approval 17/07/2012

P/12/0146 36 Ninth Avenue

Galon Uchaf

Merthyr Tydfil

CF47 9TN

Erection of single storey rear

extension

Permitted

Development

17/07/2012

P/12/0147 15 Perrott Street

Treharris

CF46 5ER

Single storey (lower ground

floor) extension with enclosed

patio area above other external

alterations (partial retention)

Full Approval 31/07/2012

P/12/0150 11 Church Street

Troedyrhiw

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 4HD

Erection of two storey rear

extension

Full Approval 03/08/2012

P/12/0153 24 Brynheulog Street

Penydarren

Merthyr Tydfil

CF47 9UY

Erection of single storey

extension to existing single

storey rear annexe and

replacement of existing annexe

roof with a new higher roof to

cover annexe and proposed

extension

Full Approval 25/07/2012

P/12/0154 Debenhams

Unit 9

Cyfarthfa Retail Park

Swansea Road

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 1HY

Installation of 4 No. internally

illuminated fascia signs

Advertisement

Approval

16/08/2012

P/12/0157 Asda Stores

Pengarnddu Industrial

Estate

Dowlais Top

Merthyr Tydfil

Erection of vehicle canopy in car

park for grocery collection

operation

Full Approval 14/08/2012

App No Site Proposal Decision Date of

Decision

P/12/0158 Asda Stores

Pengarnddu Industrial

Estate

Dowlais Top

Merthyr Tydfil

Installation of 4 No. aluminium

traysigns to proposed vehicle

canopy, erection of 1 No. twin-

post sign and erection of No.

post mounted lollypop signs in

customer car park

Advertisement

Approval

14/08/2012

P/12/0159 57 Barrack Row

Dowlais

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 3NF

Demolition of existing side

garage and rear annexes and

erection of two storey side and

rear extension (with single

storey element) and removal of

existing sub station and creation

of new hardstanding and

associated external alterations

Refusal 20/08/2012

P/12/0163 Cath's Farm Shop

Gelligaer Road

(opposite Nos 41 & 43

Gelligaer Road)

Trelewis

Erection of single storey

extension to building to provide

storage

Full Approval 31/07/2012

P/12/0165 43 Plantation Close

Penydarren

Merthyr Tydfil

CF47 9LN

Demolition of existing rear

conservatory and erection of

rear single storey extension and

internal alterations

Full Approval 24/08/2012

P/12/0166 Pencoedcae Farm

Mount Pleasant

Heolgerrig

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 1RY

Erection of agricultural building Approval not

Required

31/07/2012

P/12/0167 Dynevor Arms

Ash Road

Troedyrhiw

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 4HH

Retention of replacement

windows and doors to front and

rear elevations and retention of

replacement garage to side

elevation

Full Approval 24/08/2012

P/12/0171 16 Heol Rhyd-Y-Bedd

Pant

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 2DR

Replace flat roof on existing

front porch with new mono

pitched roof

Permitted

Development

25/07/2012

App No Site Proposal Decision Date of

Decision

P/12/0175 23 Chapel Banks

Merthyr Tydfil

CF48 1BP

Erection of two storey side

extension and single storey rear

extension

Refusal 31/08/2012

P/12/0211 Gurnos Post Office

19 Chestnut Way

Gurnos

Merthyr Tydfil

CF47 9SB

Erection of internally

illuminated sign forming part of

an ATM

Withdrawn 29/08/2012