Penarth Town Council last night debated the merits of a resident's proposal to demolish their garage/out house and build a two-storey gym and home office where it stood.

They ultimately voted against the application - two approved, three abstained, and four rejected - though this is a consultation and not a ruling.

Cllr Kathryn McCaffer was among those against the application.

"I have received an awful lot of representation with regard to this development on account of the fact that it is unneighbourly and creating huge shadows over their properties. So, I think we should reject this application," she said.

"I think from the resident's point of view, I need to support them."

Similarly, Cllr Martin Turner said:

"I think there's been an awful lot of concern from neighbours and I don't think we should give it our approval."

The application received four formal objections posted on the Penarth Town Council website. They all criticise the designs for not being in-keeping with the architecture in the area - which is a conservation zone - and take issue with the proximity of the building to property boundaries.

"We feel that this does destroy the special quality of the setting of our property," reads one.

"The proposed building is a big house in the garden, a development totally out of character with the area and would have a fundamental impact," reads another.

Cllr Nigel Humphrey voiced his support for the application, saying:

"There are several other garages down that alleyway that are the same height or higher, there have only been to objections recorded on the council website, and from my point of view I don't see any real reason to object to this."

"In terms of style it's not unusual at all and there are two buildings down that back alley which are the same height or higher."

However, a resident who wishes to remain anonymous has questioned Cllr Humphrey:

"This statement is patently untrue and it is of great concern that incorrect statements are being made which others may accept as being factual," he said.

"If you view the planning application drawings you will see that the proposed height of the double storey structure is approximately 6.4 to 6.5m.

"There are 14 single storey structures which about the alleyway and they range in height from approximately 3.7m to 5.4m."

Cllr Mike Cuddy agreed with Cllr Humphrey:

"The shadow profiles we've received don't seem that great and it does improve the nature of the access with the dwelling which is worthy of the conservation area designation.

"I don't see the problem and don't think we should necessarily be swayed by the number of objections."