Contentious Plans for 84 Homes in Historic Town Given the Green Light
Plans for an 84-home estate in Llandeilo have been approved amidst objections and concerns raised by objectors. Social housing provider Pobl Group has been granted permission to build the estate, which will include a mix of one-bedroom flats, two-bedroom houses, bungalows, and a four-bedroom house for social rent, as well as homes for shared ownership and open market sale. The proposed development is set to address the ‘urgent need’ for affordable housing in the market town.
The new estate will be constructed on steeply-sloping land in the north of Llandeilo, with only vehicle access via Parc Pencrug. The site is part of a larger area earmarked for 215 homes, with plans for a new link road that has not yet been realised. Objectors have expressed disappointment over the lack of the proposed link road in Pobl Group’s plans, as well as concerns about the design and consultation process.
During the Carmarthenshire Council’s planning committee meeting, objections were raised by local councillor Charlotte Morgan, who emphasised the importance of better design for the development. She highlighted the community’s feedback being disregarded, the lack of alternative access routes considered, and the overall design’s failure to enhance Llandeilo’s charm. Councillor Edward Thomas echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for more community involvement and improved infrastructure for pedestrian access.
Planning agent Jason Evans defended Pobl Group’s efforts, stating that the organisation had engaged with various stakeholders over several years to refine the development plans. Despite the initial proposal being for 88 homes, adjustments were made based on site constraints, such as gradients and ecological considerations. The approved estate is viewed as a vital step in providing much-needed energy-efficient homes for the local population.
Following the planning department’s recommendation for approval, Carmarthenshire Council granted consent for the project with conditions attached. The development will include open spaces and retain most existing trees, though significant site preparation is required due to the complex terrain. While concerns were raised about increased traffic flow in the area, highways officers deemed the local roads capable of accommodating the additional vehicles.
As part of the planning consent, Pobl Group will contribute £50,000 towards education initiatives and fund improvements to wastewater treatment. The council will need to satisfy Natural Resources Wales regarding the project’s impact on the River Towy special area of conservation. The adjacent land originally designated for additional housing has been removed from the current development plan, pending further examination by Welsh Government-appointed planning inspectors.
In response to the approval, Pobl Group expressed enthusiasm for delivering the much-needed homes, stressing their commitment to incorporating green spaces and wildlife into the development. They highlighted the estate’s energy efficiency and quality design, aiming to provide local residents with homes in a picturesque setting. The project signifies a step towards meeting Llandeilo’s housing needs while balancing environmental considerations.
The contentious approval of the 84-home estate in Llandeilo reflects the ongoing challenge of balancing housing demands with community concerns and environmental impact. While objections were raised regarding design, consultation, and infrastructure, the approved development aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the historic town. With careful planning and ongoing collaboration, the estate is poised to offer energy-efficient homes amidst the natural beauty of Llandeilo.