A REFUSAL to allow part of the car park at a workingmen’s club to be used as a hand car wash is being appealed.
The plan was twice turned down as it was claimed it had failed to show there was sufficient space for vehicles to safely access and exit the site and planners said those concerns hadn’t been satisfied in a revised application rejected in March this year.
The appeal claims allowing the car wash business would provide a “vital new source of income” to Pontnewydd Workingmen’s Club and Institute, in Cwmbran, which is described as under “considerable pressure” due to rising utility bills and other overheads.
Applicant Mahmmod Hussein Taha has lodged an appeal against Torfaen Borough Council’s refusal to grant change of planning permission for the car park that is also used by a food van and a hairdresser.
His appeal statement claims the refusal isn’t supported by “technical evidence” and describes the proposal as “a modest commercial operation that would not intensify vehicle movements beyond the existing informal use and introduces improved management, environmental controls and safety measures.”
It also states the business would support the club described as a “longstanding community venue” that “plays an important role in providing social, cultural and recreational opportunities for local residents”.
It adds: “Generating additional revenue through the hand car wash will help ensure the club’s continued operation and its ability to serve the community. The car wash would be a low impact, practical use of existing space, and its operation would be managed to minimise any disruption to local residents or club members.”
The application is being considered by PEDW.
