A revised plan to convert an upstairs storage space at a former church in Pembroke Dock into a flat has been approved, following an earlier refusal.
Gethin Beynon applied to Pembrokeshire County Council to change the use of a second-floor storage area at the Synergy Health and Fitness Centre—located in the Trinity Building on Meyrick Street—into residential accommodation.
The building, previously known as Bethel Baptist Church, sits within a designated conservation area in the town centre.
An earlier application, submitted in 2021, was turned down. Planners had raised concerns about a proposed balcony and roof lights, saying they would harm the character and appearance of the historic building and conservation area. They also said the plans would cause unacceptable levels of overlooking into nearby homes to the north and east of the site.
In response, the revised application included key changes. These included removing the balcony on the north side, reducing the number of velux windows, and altering the overall design to lessen the impact on neighbours’ privacy.
A planning statement supporting the updated proposal said the new design would not lead to significant overlooking and would reduce any perception of intrusion to an acceptable level. It acknowledged limited private outdoor space, but argued that the flat’s central location—close to public open spaces and facilities—made it suitable for residential use.
A report from planning officers recommended the plan be approved. It stated that the development would add to the area’s housing supply and offer social and environmental benefits by reusing an existing building. It also noted the project would bring economic gains through spending on construction materials and labour.
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