A developer’s plan to turn an “oppressive” pub basement in Haverfordwest into a flat has been shut down! The basement in question is part of the iconic former Kings Arms Hotel, a Grade-II-listed building on Dew Street, known for its history as a pub and later as an Indian takeaway. Having no windows and zero natural light, the basement was labelled an “oppressive living environment” by local planners.
Toyeb Ali Rahman, with Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, aimed to transform this space into a one-bedroom flat. The proposal involved replacing a metal roller shutter with a new entrance door, promising no major changes would be visible from the street. However, Pembrokeshire County Council wasn’t convinced. They cited the lack of natural daylight and insufficient ventilation as reasons for their rejection, fearing it wouldn’t be a pleasant place to live.
Additionally, planners highlighted potential harm to the former pub’s historic character and ecological concerns about nitrogen discharges affecting the local marine area. The bottom line: you need more than a basement with no windows to make a home – daylight and a good view matter! Stay updated with us for more stories like this.