A CALL to allow a Pembrokeshire beauty salon to expand by moving out of a “vibrant town centre” to a vacant industrial estate unit has been given the go-ahead by county planners.
In an application recommended for approval at the October 7 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Nicola Davies, of Eden Beauty Lounge, sought permission for a change of use of a unit at Crymych’s Parc Gwynfryn estate from a business, storage, distribution designation to allow the relocation of her hair & beauty salon from the town’s high street, along with extensions and alterations.
The application was before committee as it was recommended for approval despite being contrary to the development plan, which favours such developments within town centres.
A report for members said Mrs Davies’s business has been based in Crymych for some 10 years, but the new site was sought to expand the business.
It added: “It has been evidenced and accepted within the submitted Retail Impact Assessment that there are no adequate buildings or land within the Crymych settlement that would meet their needs. The proposed application site would provide an opportunity to relocate the existing business, which has operated within Crymych for 10 years providing local services and employment, within 55 metres of the settlement boundary.
“The Planning Statement submitted with the application states that the owner of the business faces a decision to limit the company’s future aspirations or move elsewhere. As such, approval of the proposal would secure existing local employment and provide an opportunity for additional employment to be created.”
Approval was moved by Cllr Brian Hall, seconded by Cllr Simon Hancock; members unanimously backing the scheme.
Cllr John T Davies, whose ward is nearby, praised the “balanced, detailed and very pragmatic approach” of the planning officer’s report, adding: “There’s a vibrant high street in Crymych; this is a win-win, it allows growth and employment and supports an existing business, and releases property in the heart of Crymych, which is to be welcomed.”
Committee chair Cllr Mark Carter also registered his support: “As a small business owner myself, it is wonderful when there’s an opportunity for a small business to expand.”
