Plans to change a former hairdressing salon in Pembrokeshire’s only city to a family-friendly coffee bar have been approved by the national park.

In an application to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Gerallt Nash sought permission for a change of use of 26 High Street, St Davids from a hairdressing salon to a family friendly coffee bar and children’s playroom.

The first floor, formerly used as accommodation of a tenant, would be used as an office and storage of business.

A supporting statement said: “It is proposed to open a family-friendly coffee bar with a children’s playroom on ground floor. It is not intended to cook food on the premises, therefore there will be no requirement for an extractor system.

“Other than small scale repairs to part of one floor, and the installation of a sink and serving counter in the inner room (plumbing and electrics are already in place since its last use as a salon) the main work will be the redecoration of surfaces and ceilings, the provision of new light fittings and laying of new floor coverings.

“This part of High Street has been identified as a ‘commercial’ zone by PCNPA. Existing businesses close to No 26 include outdoor and surfing outlets; restaurants; clothes shops; holiday accommodation; ice cream parlour; fish and chips outlet; delicatessen and craft shops.

“The current proposal would fill a gap in the market, as most food outlets do not open until after 11am or 12pm, or only during the evenings in some cases. It would also provide somewhere for [young] families to go to unwind whilst their children can relax in the playroom.”

The scheme was supported by St Davids City Council but one representation from a member of the public raised concerns about potential noise, smells and risk of vermin from waste storage on site.

An officer report said the county council’s public protection team has been consulted and has no objections to raise, adding the application states there is no intention to cook on the premises; the opening hours listed as 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday, and 8am-7pm on Saturdays.

In recommending approval, it said: “There are no concerns in relation to significant impacts upon amenity, subject to a condition relating to opening hours, and it is not considered that the proposal would have an impact upon the character or appearance of the St David’s Conservation Area.”

The application was conditionally approved.

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