Asbri Planning, acting for the Draycott Group, has launched a statutory pre‑application consultation on plans to alter and extend the existing building on John Street. The scheme would see parts of the rooftop demolished and the upper floors reconfigured to create 27 apartments — a mix of 23 one‑bedroom, one two‑bedroom (three‑person) and three two‑bedroom (four‑person) homes — spread across the first, second and third floors.
The ground floor shopping arcade and retail units would be retained, with shopfront improvements along John Street and St Catherine’s Walk. The upper‑floor homes would be served by dedicated entrances, cycle storage and roof terraces, with no on‑site parking for residents.
Contemporary design in a heritage setting
The Design and Access Statement says the new homes would be built above the existing retail structure, stepping back at higher levels to reduce the visual impact and create outdoor terrace space. Materials such as slate, off‑white render and grey standing‑seam metal cladding are proposed to complement the neighbouring Capitol cinema and nearby conservation area, while giving the building a distinct, modern identity.
The plans also aim to improve natural surveillance and footfall in this part of the town centre, with balconies and windows overlooking surrounding streets and the service yard.
Public consultation open until 3 October
Under Welsh planning rules, major developments must go through a 28‑day public consultation before a formal application is submitted. Residents, businesses and other stakeholders can view the full plans and supporting documents on Asbri Planning’s consultation page and submit feedback by email or post before 3 October 2025.
Part of wider regeneration push
The Cambrian Way site has long been identified as a priority for regeneration. If approved, the redevelopment would join a growing number of mixed‑use projects in Welsh town centres aimed at tackling vacant retail space, meeting housing demand and boosting footfall for local traders.
Once the consultation closes, Asbri Planning will review all responses before finalising the application for submission to Carmarthenshire County Council.
