Approved: Construction of 10 New Homes on Former School Site in Neath Port Talbot
A recent development proposal to build housing on the grounds of a former primary school in Neath Port Talbot has been given the green light. The extensive plans, submitted by Asbri Planning in August 2022, outline the potential construction of 10 residential properties on the former site of Gwaun-cae-Gurwen Primary School located on Water Street. The site spans approximately 0.35 hectares and has already seen the demolition of the old school buildings.
According to the proposed plans, all 10 houses will be semi-detached, with six featuring three bedrooms and four comprising four bedrooms each. Additionally, driveways and a new access road off Water Street are planned to be developed as part of the project. The proposal specifies, “The dwellings are oriented as six semi-detached dwellings fronting Water Street and a further four semi-detached dwellings located to the rear of the site.”
The area, currently consisting of hard-standing and overgrown shrubbery, sits in close proximity to various public amenities such as convenience stores, bus stops, Cwmgors Rugby Club, and Gwaun-cae-Gurwen Community Clinic. Neath Port Talbot Council officers granted approval for the development in January 2025, paving the way for potential construction work to commence in the upcoming months.
The project marks a significant transition for the former school site and brings the prospect of new housing options for residents in the village. The inclusion of both three and four-bedroom properties caters to different household sizes, offering a diverse range of options for potential homeowners. The addition of driveways and a new access road contributes to enhancing the infrastructure of the area.
The decision to proceed with the construction of the 10 new homes aligns with the local council’s vision for sustainable development and addressing housing needs within the community. The revitalization of brownfield sites like the former Gwaun-cae-Gurwen Primary School demonstrates a commitment to urban regeneration and utilising existing spaces effectively.
Moving forward, the commencement of building work on the site signals progress towards the realization of the approved development plans. The forthcoming construction phase is anticipated to bring economic benefits to the local area, including job opportunities and investments in the construction sector.
As the construction of the 10 new homes progresses, it underlines the importance of responsible urban planning and the utilisation of unused spaces for residential purposes. The transformation of the former school site into a vibrant housing development reflects the evolving landscape of Neath Port Talbot and supports the community’s growth and development initiatives.
In conclusion, the approval of the proposal symbolises a significant step towards the rejuvenation of the former school site and underscores the collaborative efforts between developers and local authorities to enhance housing options in Neath Port Talbot. Watch this space for the latest updates on the construction progress and the impact of the new housing development on the local community.