ABC Pre-School Nursery in Haverfordwest has obtained retroactive approval for its timber covered play area, enhancing children's play experiences; the applicants not realising it needed official permission to build.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council planners, Victoria Christie sought retrospective permission for a covered external play area at the nursery in Castle High.

The timber structure had been established last year with grant assistance from Pembrokeshire County Council and allowed children a chance “to play in a safe and secure environment and enjoy some of messier play experiences in a covered area,” said a supporting statement through agent Ian Bartlett Planning and Architectural Services.

The statement added: “The granting of consent will allow the nursery to fulfil its obligations in terms of childcare guidance and will continue to enhance the experience for children using the facility.”

An officer report, recommending conditional approval, said: “The siting of the covered play area has benefited the economy by providing work within the construction industry and generate income for materials suppliers and distributors,” adding: “There are no adverse environmental impacts associated with the siting of the covered play area”.

It went on to say: “Whilst the pre-school grounds lie adjacent to existing residential development, the covered play area is located 11.6 metres external wall to external wall, from any residential dwelling.

“As such, there is no detrimental impact on the privacy or amenity of neighbouring properties,” finishing: “It is considered that the application would comply with the policies of the Pembrokeshire Local Development Plan and that planning permission shall be granted.”