A former psychology clinic and office building on Little Walter Street in Carmarthen is set to be converted into a 10-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO), despite objections from a local councillor who described the proposal as "totally inappropriate."
The development will feature five en-suite bedrooms on the first floor, while the ground floor will contain a kitchen, a communal area, five additional bedrooms—one of which is en-suite—and two communal toilets. Internal bike storage will also be provided.
Councillor Raises Concerns
Cllr Gareth John, who represents the Carmarthen Town North and South ward, expressed concerns on behalf of neighbours. In an email to Carmarthenshire Council objecting to the planning application, he stated that the proposal "would present a level of occupation density that would be totally inappropriate for both the site and surrounding area."
Neighbours reportedly worried about potential noise and disturbance, refuse storage issues, and increased pressure on what was described as "very limited" on-street parking. Cllr John also noted that the property lies within a conservation area. While no external alterations are proposed, he argued that the change of use to a 10-bed HMO "will most certainly alter the character and balance of the street, which currently is predominantly family and small-scale residential in nature."
Applicant's Justification
A planning statement submitted on behalf of the applicant argued that the scheme would deliver a high-quality living environment for occupants. It highlighted that shops, cafes, gyms, bus stops, and car parks are all within walking distance. Additionally, all rooms were said to exceed recommended minimum sizes.
The statement also referenced an extant planning permission from 2023 to convert the building into three three-storey houses, which it said "establishes the principle of residential use."
Council Approval
The council’s built heritage officer concluded that the proposal would not have any detrimental impact on the North Carmarthen conservation area. The highways team also raised no objection. Consequently, council planning officers approved the application, subject to conditions.
