The Welsh Government has chosen not to intervene in the development plans for a significant new housing estate and link road on the outskirts of Mold, a town in North Wales. Anwyl Homes, headquartered in Ewloe, has received approval from Flintshire County Council to construct 235 homes between Gwernaffield Road and Denbigh Road. This project includes the creation of a connecting road between the two mentioned roads, with the transformation of Pool House Lane into a pedestrian and cycling route. Despite appeals to the Welsh Government to review the decision, citing concerns about transport assessment inadequacies and flaws in the Local Development Plan, the request was declined. Furthermore, questions were raised about the potential impact of a recent fire at the nearby Synthite chemical plant on the new housing site. Appellants contended that the properties would be imposing on the area.
Hywel Butts, head of planning casework at the Welsh Government’s planning directorate, stated that the proposed development did not raise issues beyond local significance and, therefore, would not be called in for further review by Welsh Ministers. This decision means that the authority to determine the application rests with the Local Planning Authority, allowing the development to proceed once all necessary conditions are met. The 28-acre site earmarked for housing in the current local plan is expected to feature a mix of 94 affordable homes and 141 homes for open market sale, comprising one to four-bedroom houses. Anwyl Homes plans to commence construction later this year, pending the resolution of technical and planning requirements.
Phil Dolan, Managing Director of Anwyl Homes Cheshire and North Wales, emphasised the company’s commitment to providing a variety of house types and designs, including 40% affordable homes, to address local housing needs. The development will also involve investments in the local community, such as contributing over £37,500 towards improvements at Ysgol Bryn Gwalia as part of the planning agreement. The site will feature green open spaces, a play area, and a multi-use games area for residents and the wider community to enjoy. Efforts will be made to enhance habitats for local wildlife through native planting, the retention of mature trees and hedgerows, and the installation of bird and bat boxes.
The decision from the Welsh Government signals a significant milestone in the progression of the housing estate development in Mold, paving the way for Anwyl Homes to fulfil its construction plans and deliver much-needed housing options for the local community.