The Vale of Glamorgan planning committee has approved a controversial application for the Monty Smith building to be turned into apartments.

The building, which was previously a local garage, will be demolished to make way for a block of 21 flats.

The developer and building company Xavier Rush have previous experience with development in Penarth due to their conversion of Albert Road methodist church.

Concerns were raised by Penarth Town Council's planning committee due to the design of the building in comparison to the ones surrounding it and the lack of affordable housing being catered for in the development.

Residents have also shared their concerns. Their main issues with the development are listed below:

• Appearance of the building
• Insufficient on-site parking provision.
• No allocation for affordable housing.

It was pointed out that an off-site affordable housing contribution of £54,172 will be made in light of the affordable housing issues.

The applicants agent Mr. John Hurley spoke at the committee.

He said: ''The site occupies a prominent location. The building is not in a good state of repair.

''The building detracts from the character of the area.

''The proposed development will significantly enhance the area. It will deal with any contamination issues associated with a garage.

''Officers have confirmed that in terms of design the modern approach is welcomed.

''The design proposes a range of flats which goes someway to aiding demand for this type of accommodation in Penarth.

''Residents living in the scheme will use the towns shops and services which is another direct benefit.

''The site is also highly accessible to public transport.''

Cllr. Thomas spoke on behalf of Cllr. Sivagnanam who stated: ''I am unhappy with this going ahead on the basis that once again the people of Penarth are being shortchanged by this council.

''I refer of course to the fact that this imposing development will have no social housing units nor will it compensate residents properly through the affordable housing formula.

''Once again I find myself opposing another private development in Penarth because our social housing needs are not being met, nor are we being compensated.''

Cllr. Gray disagreed. He said, ''I think it makes a vast improvement. It is an eyesore of a mass in the centre of a town in a profile that changed dramatically. I understand the processes that it goes through and I am content with that part of it.

''Looking at the proposal I think it is not over obtrusive, not over massing. I can see it being of benefit to the approach into the centre of Penarth and I'd like to move officers recommendations.''

The application received only two votes against so the development has been approved.