Pembrokeshire County Council has approved plans for a new housing estate in Narberth, with more than 40% of the 91 homes designated as affordable. The housing development, to be constructed by Wales & West Housing Association, will feature a mixture of one to four-bedroom properties. The estate, situated north of Adams Drive and west of Bloomfield Gardens, will consist of 28 affordable homes, 12 Low-Cost Home Ownership Units, and 51 houses for the open market. The affordable units will be subject to a local letting policy to ensure they benefit the community in Narberth.
Representatives from Asbri Planning Ltd, who presented the application, emphasised that the design of the estate aims to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding environment and wildlife corridors. The diverse range of housing options is intended to cater to a variety of residents, including first-time buyers, families looking to upsize, individuals seeking bungalows, and those planning for retirement. Approximately half of the proposed homes will be available for social rent or discounted sale through the ‘Own Home Cymru’ scheme by Wales & West Housing, enabling local buyers to acquire homes below market value.
While the approval has been granted, concerns have been raised by Narberth Town Council regarding site access and the potential strain on existing infrastructure. Residents have also voiced worries about traffic distribution, safety issues, and the impact on the town center’s one-way system. Despite these concerns, the head of planning has been given delegated powers to finalise the approval, contingent upon fulfilling conditions outlined in a Section 106 legal agreement. Among these conditions are provisions for perpetual affordable housing, a local lettings policy, financial contributions towards education impact mitigation, and off-site play space.
Narberth, recently recognised in The Sunday Times 2023 Best Places to Live Guide for its vibrant town center, is set to see further growth with this housing development. The approval of the estate aligns with the council’s efforts to address housing needs in the area, particularly by offering affordable options for local residents. The mix of housing types and tenures reflects a commitment to inclusivity and community integration, ensuring that the new estate contributes positively to Narberth’s growth and sustainability.
With the final plans now in place, construction on the 91-homes estate is expected to commence soon, bringing new housing options and further enriching the fabric of Narberth. As the town evolves and expands, stakeholders will continue to monitor the development’s progress and its impact on the local community. The approval of this housing project marks a significant step towards meeting the housing demands in Narberth while maintaining its unique character and charm.