Campaigners are expressing their shock and frustration after a council in Llantwit Major approved a scheme for portable homes, as reported by Wales Online. The Vale of Glamorgan Council has given the green light for the development of 90 portable homes on a site previously occupied by Eagleswell Primary School. These homes are intended to accommodate Ukrainian refugees and individuals on the housing waiting list who require temporary housing.
This decision has sparked outrage among local residents and campaigners who were not consulted about the project. The portable homes are situated only metres away from residents’ back gardens, raising concerns about privacy and design. Despite assurances from the council to address these issues, campaigners argue that the proposed solutions, such as using a plastic film over windows for obscurity, are inadequate and fail to meet planning conditions.
The Eagleswell Action Group, representing the local community, has voiced their disappointment with the outcome, questioning the council’s handling of the development. They argue that the placement of 90 containers and approximately 400 residents on a small site disregards the existing community of Llantwit Major. The group, which now has over 2,000 members, is challenging the council’s decision and seeking a fair resolution for the people of Llantwit Major.
In addition to privacy concerns, residents have raised issues with the glazing of windows in the portable homes. Conditions attached to the planning permission mandate that certain windows be obscurely glazed to protect privacy. However, residents claim that the material being used, MACal Glass Decor 700, may not provide sufficient obscurity and could be easily removed. The council refutes these claims, stating that the windows will feature glazing to the required standard and that compliance with planning conditions will be monitored.
The council justifies the development of portable homes using permitted development rights, typically reserved for emergency situations such as housing refugees. Vale of Glamorgan Council’s leader, Lis Burnett, highlights the importance of providing dignified accommodation for those in need while alleviating pressure on council housing stock. The council emphasises its control over the development and commitment to ensuring compliance with planning conditions.
Despite ongoing challenges and disputes, the council maintains that the portable homes scheme will serve a critical purpose in supporting Ukrainian refugees and individuals awaiting housing assistance. The conflict between residents and authorities underscores the complexities of balancing humanitarian needs with local community concerns, raising questions about consultation and transparency in decision-making processes.
In conclusion, the approval of the portable homes scheme in Llantwit Major has ignited tensions between residents, campaigners, and the council, highlighting the need for open dialogue and collaborative solutions to address housing challenges while respecting community interests.