Olympian Geraint Thomas' wedding venue plans approved

The lodge at St Tewdric's, with the main house in the background

An application by Olympic cyclist Geraint Thomas to convert his Monmouthshire home to a wedding venue has been approved by councillors.

The gold medallist will convert part of Grade II-listed St Tewdric's House near Chepstow into reception and accommodation facilities.

Residents had complained, saying increased traffic on a minor road and late-night noise could cause problems.

But officers recommended the plans be approved, which were backed on Tuesday.

Mr Thomas married his wife Sara at the house last October and the couple will adapt the stable courtyard to house new reception facilities, converting a lodge into guest accommodation.

The house would form part of the wedding venue, as well as offering further accommodation.

A typical wedding would host about 90 guests, but the venue could accommodate up to 150.

Objections

In a report officers noted Mathern community council, which covers Thomas's home, and 33 residents had sent formal objections to the scheme.

Monmouth MP David Davies also wrote and asked the council to "consider carefully" residents' concerns over a perceived negative impact on the area.

Mr Thomas's father-in-law Eifion Thomas said the family appreciated the concerns, but would work closely with the community.

He told BBC Wales: "It's great news as far as we are concerned, we are really happy. We totally understand the objections made, and want to just start building a business that the community will be proud of.

"We need the community behind this to make it a success."