AN APPEAL to overturn a decision that meant a former U boat listening station near Strumble Head into holiday accommodation has been allowed by the Welsh Government's Planning Inspectorate.

The former U boat listening station at Garn Fawr, near Strumble Head was put on the market back in 2009. Prospective buyers were asked to submit sealed tenders, with offers invited over £45,000.

The property is now owned by Kevin and Julia Niblett. In February last year Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority issued an enforcement notice, stating that there had been a material change in the use of the building to residential, without planning permission.

The park's enforcement notice required that the building should cease to be used for residential purposes and that all domestic paraphernalia, fixtures and fittings were to be removed within six months.

The planning inspector quashed the enforcement notice after the Niblett's appeal was successful.

In his report planning inspector, Iwan Lloyd, noted that the appearance of the building had improved since it had been converted for residential use.

"The heritage statement accepts that the building had always had a stark and utilitarian design and appearance, but the restoration and conversion has in turn softened its appearance," he reports.

"I would concur that the building has a more subdued appearance following its restoration/ conversion and given that the building has stood before the national park designation came into effect and will continue to be a feature of the landscape regardless of this appeal, it would be an appropriate building for conversion."

He added that the appellants had provide a satisfactory landscaping proposal to mitigate the effects of the building being used for a domestic purpose.

Mr Lloyd said that he had allowed the appeal in light of the Wellbeing of Future generations Act and that he had taken into account the sustainable development principle.

The appeal was granted on the conditions that the building would only be used as holiday accommodation, not as permanent residence; that the buildings were not altered and no new buildings erected and that a detailed landscaping scheme be submitted within six months.

The Niblett's application against the national park authority for costs will be the subject of a separate decision.