MEMBERS of Pembrokeshire’s planning committee voted to carry out a site visit before making a decision on a young couple’s application to build an affordable home near Hayscastle.

Mr Reynolds and Miss Goddard’s application has come before the committee four times, and on each occasion has sparked a lengthy debate among councillors.

Their application seeks outline planning permission to build an affordable house in Upper Tancredston.

It was first refused on January 29, 2013 as it was deemed contrary to the Joint Unitary Development Plan, and again on June 27, 2013, as it conflicted with the policies of the new Local Development Plan (LDP). When it was discussed on November 26, 2013 members went against the officer’s recommendation for refusal, but failed to come up with a valid reason.

The application has attracted no objections from the statutory consultees, and has the backing of Brawdy Community Council, as well as five representations of support.

Speaking at the last meeting, the applicant Sarah Goddard said: “Our proposed home would have no negative impact whatsoever on the countryside, and our intended traditional design would be entirely in character with the locality.

“Our self-build affordable home would be provided at no cost to the council or state, would be a free addition to the council’s housing target and would be affordable in perpetuity.

The council’s head of planning Hywel Wyn Jones said: “This proposal is clearly contrary to the Local Development Plan which was adopted less than 12 months ago. To disregard it would set a dangerous precedent.”

Councillor Gwilym Price said: “Throughout this long saga I have not been convinced of the legal argument being put forward. I’m still of the opinion that this application should be approved.”

A motion to carry out a site visit saw seven councillors vote for it, and five against. It will be carried out on January 29.

The chairman of the committee, Cllr Myles Pepper said: “I cannot stress enough that members must make every effort to attend.”