A scheme for a block of flats smaller than a previously approved proposal in Aberystwyth has been given the go-ahead.

In an application recommended for approval at the September meeting of Ceredigion County Council’s development management committee, permission was sought for a new build detached block of flats, four storeys in height, of 16 flats at Brynderw, Stanley Road.

The site is next to the Grade-II*-listed Edward Davies Building; listed for being amongst the earliest purpose-built chemical laboratories anywhere in the world and the first in Wales, with a large number of additional listed buildings are also identified as being within the wider vicinity of the site including the Grade-II*-listed National Library of Wales.

An officer report for members said Brynderw, in Aberystwyth’s conservation area, was formerly used by the town’s university as accommodation and housed 146 bedrooms but had been vacant for a number of years and has since been converted to 30 flats back in 1996.

It said planning permission was granted for a development of 24 flats on six storeys on land directly adjoining Brynderw to its east in 2023, adding that permission has been implemented, although it has only proceeded to foundation stage.

Of the latest proposals, it said it was now sought to build 16 flats on that 2023 approved scheme site, over four storeys rather than six, including four affordable units on the ground floor.

Aberystwyth Town Council had objected to the application on grounds of use of unacceptable materials; concern over loss of affordable units; development should not become second homes or holiday accommodation if approved; concern over parking and access issues.

The report for members added: “In essence, this application looks to supersede the recently approved application on the same footprint for the provision.”

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The application was conditionally approved by committee members.