Cwmbran pub landlord must tear down decking and play area

A pub landlord must tear down decking and a children’s play area after planners refused permission.

Torfaen Borough Council said the facilities at Castell y Bwch Inn at Henllys, near Cwmbran, were a “visual intrusion into the landscape”.

But landlord Gary Bulmer said they were “vital” to the success of his business, which he bought in 2022, and removing them would have a “massive impact” on trade.

Bulmer is considering an appeal but hoped a compromise could still be reached.

“I don’t accept that it’s visually intrusive,” he said.

“Everyone who comes says it’s wonderful but it now has to be taken down.”

Bulmer said the outside seating and play area, which overlooks Newport with views stretching across to the Severn Estuary, had become an important attraction for families visiting the steakhouse.

“It will have a massive impact on trade if this goes, it would be greatly diminished. Is this 50 square metres where the decking is so important?”