RETROSPECTIVE plans to build an agricultural shed near St Clears, described as being industrial in size, have been approved by Carmarthenshire Council.

The application to retain the storage shed near Plas Marl Farm on the Meidrim road, was submitted through agents Sarnau Design.

A report for planners stated the original red brick cowshed next to Plas Marl Farm had been converted into a house, with an extension and a garage approved in 2008.

The application also included an agricultural building.

However, the building constructed was not in accordance with the approved plans, with the latest application a result of action taken by the council's enforcement section.

Members heard the building constructed had larger elevations facing the wrong way.

Concern was raised by an objector over the scale of the building and that it was not being used for agricultural purposes.

He described it as "an industrial building which belongs on an industrial site."

It was stated that a mezzanine floor has been put in the building, with officers later finding a partial floor.

A report for planners said an objector felt that the building is of an industrial scale and design. However, it said the materials and appearance are typical of agricultural buildings of its size.

Impact

Other issues were raised that are not considered to be planning considerations, such as potentially flammable materials stored in the building and that hay would not be produced on the site so would require deliveries.

Concerns were also raised about visual impact.

Planners heard the previously approved scheme would have had the taller side of the building facing towards the south. With the reorientation of the building, the gable sections face that direction and reduce the impact on the adjacent property.

Speaking at last Thursday's planning committee meeting, Saron councillor John Garfield Edwards asked for a condition ensuring the building remained for agricultural use only.

Officers agreed to add the condition.

Councillor Terry Davies, member for Gorslas proposed the application was accepted, but added: "None of us are happy about retrospective planning applications."

The application was passed unanimously.