Residents in an award-winning Welsh village are up in arms over the decision to build a Lidl supermarket near their cherished community. The Vale of Glamorgan Council’s planning committee recently greenlit the proposal put forth by Lidl to construct a supermarket at Bridge House Farm, located between Llantwit Major and Llanmaes village. Despite planning officials advising against the project, a majority of the committee members felt the growing town of Llantwit Major needed additional services, with no other viable locations for the supermarket. However, residents of Llanmaes expressed concerns about increased traffic and the impact on the Llanmaes conservation area.
Chair of Llanmaes Community Council, Cllr Graeme Smith, voiced the community’s discontent, stating that while they understand the need for more shopping options due to the area’s growth, it should not come at the expense of established planning regulations. The council pledged to investigate the procedures followed during the planning committee meeting and assess the broader implications on local development plans. Cllr Smith highlighted the unfairness of the decision being influenced by individuals from larger settlements rather than considering the views of the local community.
If the current plans proceed, the supermarket will be situated within the conservation area of Llanmaes, known for winning the Vale of Glamorgan Best-Kept Village competition multiple times. While some residents of Llantwit Major supported the supermarket project, citing the town’s lack of retail options, others raised concerns about potential traffic hazards. Llantwit First Independents councillor Gwyn John flagged the proximity of a riding school to the planned site, emphasising safety issues.
One Llanmaes resident, Jackie Wright, expressed enthusiasm for having a supermarket in the area but worried about safety at a narrow corner near the proposed location. Vale of Glamorgan Council’s highways team raised no objections to the project under certain conditions. However, planning officers recommended against the supermarket citing visual impacts on the countryside and the rural character of the area.
Despite the objections, the planning application for the Lidl supermarket was approved, awaiting finalisation of conditions at an upcoming planning committee meeting. The date for this meeting is yet to be decided, leaving the community and concerned residents in limbo. The ongoing saga underscores the tensions between development needs and preserving the heritage and character of rural communities in Wales. Residents remain determined to challenge the decision and protect the integrity of their village and surrounding areas.
In response to the outcry, Vale of Glamorgan Council declined to offer further comments beyond those presented during the contentious planning committee meeting. With emotions running high and differing perspectives on the table, the clash between progress and tradition continues to unfold, raising questions about balancing growth with the preservation of the rich cultural tapestry that defines Welsh villages like Llanmaes. The saga serves as a potent reminder of the challenges and complexities inherent in balancing development aspirations with the need to protect the unique charm and identity of rural communities.