Dylan Thomas Boathouse turbine 'absurd', says granddaughter

Campaigners say the turbine will spoil the famous view from the Boathouse

The granddaughter of poet Dylan Thomas has criticised plans for a wind turbine opposite his Laugharne Boathouse.

Hannah Ellis said a decision to grant permission for the turbine at Mwche Farm, in Llansteffan, contrary to planning advice, was "completely absurd".

Campaigners had protested against the proposal claiming the turbine would blight the view from the house.

The Welsh government confirmed it had been asked to review the decision.

The turbine was granted permission by Carmarthenshire council's planning committee on 3 June against the advice of planning officers who were concerned about the potential impact on the local landscape.

Councillor Daff Davies, who represents the Llanybri and Llansteffan ward, spoke strongly in favour of the application but did not vote because he knew the applicant.

'Very upsetting'

In an interview for Newyddion 9, Ms Ellis said the decision undermined the efforts put into presenting Laugharne, which is the main focus of events to mark the centenary of Dylan Thomas's birth this year, and the Boathouse around the world.

She added: "From a personal point of view I scattered mum's ashes at the Boathouse and we put a bench there... and we sit there and it's my peaceful time... and to imagine a wind turbine there is very upsetting."

Ms Ellis has written to the Welsh government about her concerns, along with a number of residents who have requested ministers call-in the decision for consideration.

Carmarthenshire's planning committee will meet on Thursday to ratify the decision and give reasons for rejecting the officers' advice.

It did not wish to comment before the meeting.

A Welsh government spokesperson said a decision on the call-in would be issued as soon as possible.