Family's new garage blocked by council because it 'spoiled view for train passengers passing at 90mph'

Family's new garage blocked by council because it 'spoiled view for train passengers passing at 90mph' Planning officers said the proposed garage would have significant visual impact because it sits beside a protected landscape, a public footpath and the busy Cardiff to Manchester rail line A family has been blocked from building a new garage after planners warned it could spoil views from trains speeding past their home at up to 90mph. The unusual objection was raised over plans at Tram Cottage in Llanfrechfa, near Cwmbran, where homeowner Thomas Hillier hopes to complete a garage beside the family home. A base has already been built and a canopy put up, but work was halted while the development went through the planning process. Thomas applied to Torfaen Borough Council for permission to retain the work already carried out and finish the garage, which would also include a first-floor home office. He also wants to change the use of the land from agricultural to residential. But planning officers recommended the scheme be refused, citing concerns about the effect on the surrounding countryside, the nearby public right of way and views from the railway line. The main Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly line runs behind the rural property, with trains reaching speeds of up to 90mph on the route. The line also carries thousands of commuters between Cwmbran, Newport and Cardiff. Tram Cottage sits within the South Eastern Lowlands Special Landscape Area and a protected green wedge, where development is tightly controlled. Planning officer Mia McAndrew said the site was at the end of a private lane and away from the public highway, but remained in a “sensitive” location under local and national planning policies. She stated: "The site is part of the special landscape area and immediately visible from the train line and a public right of way. Any visual impact from the proposed development is therefore considered to be significant.” Her report said development in the green wedge could only be permitted in limited circumstances. Ms McAndrew said: “This development goes beyond this, sprawling into surrounding countryside land. "The applicant’s ownership of the land does not automatically change the use to residential. It is also considered that this minor residential development only benefits the occupant and would not have a community value to help justify any impact on the countryside, green wedge or special landscape area.” The application was also criticised for failing to provide enough information about how the ecological impact of the development would be managed. Planning officers said the proposed size and siting of the garage would also harm the character of the surrounding area. Thomas now has the right to appeal the refusal to a government planning inspector.