Around 100 new homes are set to be constructed in Narberth, one of the sought-after places to live in Wales. The estate, which has been granted approval by county planners, will feature a mix of properties, with over 40% of them designated as affordable housing. The project is part of Wales & West Housing Association’s initiative, with plans encompassing one to four-bedroom houses to meet various housing needs. The development site, situated north of Adams Drive and west of Bloomfield Gardens, is designed to integrate into the existing wildlife corridors and connect seamlessly with the local community.
According to a statement from Asbri Planning Ltd, the focus is on creating a high-quality residential area that harmonises with the natural surroundings and adds value to Narberth. The estate will comprise 28 affordable homes, 12 Low-Cost Home Ownership Units, and 51 properties for open market sale. A local letting policy will be enforced for the affordable units to ensure accessibility for local residents. The diversity in housing options aims to cater to a wide spectrum of potential buyers, including first-time homeowners, families looking to upsize, and individuals seeking retirement accommodation.
The proposal emphasises that nearly half of the homes will be available for social rent or discounted home ownership, helping address the affordability challenge in Narberth’s housing market. Through schemes like ‘Own Home Cymru’, eligible buyers with local ties will have the opportunity to purchase a property at 70% of the market value without the need for a deposit. Despite the positive implications of the development, Narberth Town Council has raised concerns regarding infrastructure capacity and traffic management associated with the new homes.
Local residents have also expressed apprehensions about issues such as site access, traffic safety, and potential congestion in the town centre. To address these concerns, planning authorities have conditionally supported the project, subject to compliance with specific requirements outlined in a Section 106 legal agreement. This agreement ensures the perpetual provision of affordable housing, implementation of a local lettings policy, and contributions towards education and recreational facilities to mitigate the impact of the development.
Narberth’s recognition as the best place to live in Wales, as noted by The Sunday Times, underscores the appeal and desirability of the town. The upcoming housing estate aligns with the town’s reputation for offering a high quality of life and vibrant community spirit. The project not only contributes to meeting the housing needs of a diverse population but also upholds the town’s character and essence, creating a sustainable and inclusive living environment for current and future residents.
This development reflects a broader trend in Wales towards promoting affordable and diverse housing options to address the growing demand for quality accommodation. By balancing the provision of affordable housing with market-rate properties, the Narberth estate represents a step towards fostering inclusive communities and sustainable development practices. As construction progresses, stakeholders will continue to monitor the project’s impact on the local area and work towards ensuring a seamless integration of the new homes into Narberth’s residential landscape.