Plans to turn a building opposite Roath Park into a cafe have been given the go-ahead.
Three planning applications were submitted to Cardiff council's planning department earlier in 2021 for alternative uses of a locally well-known property near the popular park and lake.
Now the council has granted planning permission to change the 'former old kiosk,' as it is called on the application documentation, into a cafe or restaurant. Planning permission has been granted subject to conditions.
Read more: The row over Roath Park's 'ridiculous' lockdown cones around the popular spot
The detached building, which lies within the Roath Park Conservation Area, is located on Lake Road West and is opposite the now closed Juboraj restaurant and next to the former site of the Wedal Road youth hostel, which received approval from the council to be demolished in 2018.
The property is a detached, two-storey brick and rendered pitched roof building, with a feature mock-Tudor beams front panel. It is described as having a modest rear garden and small forecourt to the front.
According to the delegated report, the applicant has said that the proposed use for the building is not as a takeaway, and has also sought permission for a roof extension and external alterations to the building.
The front elevation of the building will be re-clad with "a suitable brick finish" and new double-glazed, painted timber, sliding sash windows, along with a folding-style hardwood shop front, will also be fitted, according to the report. Seating areas will cover the ground and first floors, with storage and staff facilities on the second floor.
"The proposals would greatly enhance the appearance of the existing building, which currently detracts from the character of the conservation area due to its asymmetric roof, poor detailing, randomly placed doors and windows and lack of boundary treatment," the report reads.
"The proposed extensions/alterations and re-use as a cafe/restaurant would overcome most of these issues, although unlike the applications for the business or residential use, the plans are not specific about the forecourt area.
"A condition for landscaping is therefore recommended. Overall, the plans would result in a significant enhancement to the character and appearance of the area."
While the 'former old kiosk' is now set to become a cafe or restaurant, the bay-fronted detached brick house next to it has been renovated and transformed into two luxury apartments.
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