Residents in Plasnewydd, Cardiff have lost their battle to stop a family home from being converted into flats. Despite vocal opposition from locals and councillors, Cardiff Council’s planning committee gave the green light to transform the three-bedroom house on Timbers Square into three self-contained flats. Concerned residents, along with Labour councillor Peter Wong, argued that such development would erode the character of their unique neighbourhood, with Wong highlighting that one of the planned flats barely meets minimum space standards, offering just 33cm more than required.
The applicant insists there’s a demand for smaller flats in the area, and Cardiff Council planners argue that the proposal aligns with housing standards by providing a mix of homes. The development includes two two-bedroom flats and one one-bedroom flat, ranging in size from 35.3sqm to 70sqm. Critics of the plan feel that these flats push the limits of acceptable living conditions, with one flat’s dimensions being particularly contentious.
Council planner Owen Rees pointed out that the creation of additional units could actually offer new family accommodation, while senior planner Steve Ball indicated that refusing the proposal wouldn’t have been justifiable based on current guidelines. Planners emphasised that Cardiff’s housing policy supports a diverse range of homes to cater to different needs.
As the community comes to terms with this decision, many express fears about the future of their street’s charm and the ongoing trend of transforming family houses into smaller units. The debate highlights the tension between preserving community character and accommodating housing demands.