An application to convert a disused church in Saundersfoot into residential accommodation has been refused.

The application submitted by Mr. D. Beynon, of Monkstone Bay Development, for the conversion of Thomas Memorial Congregational Church, on High Street, into two residential units of accommodation, came before members of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s development management committee on Wednesday.

Saundersfoot Community Council had offered no objection to the proposals, which proposes subdividing the chapel to form two residential units, rather than a single unit which had been previously granted permission under the original application.

The proposal includes amendments to the fenestration of the existing church structure and some associated external works.

However PCNPA’s case planning officer Andrew Richards had recommended refusal for the application, due to issues surrounding the applicant believing that the subdivision of the unit did not provide sufficient viability to provide any affordable housing contribution off site.

“It is clear that whilst the proposals would comply with most of the policies within the adopted LDP and that the siting and design would have no additional impact on the character of the building, locality and neighbouring properties, there are significant national and local policy objections to the proposed in terms of affordable housing and the required mechanisms to ensure that suitable contributions are secured as part of the planning process,” stated Mr. Richards in his report that went before the committee.

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When put to the vote, 12 members of the committee voted in favour of the planning officer’s recommendation to refuse the plans.