Plans for 36 affordable flats have been given the green light on the site of a former care home in Neath, despite some local objection. The proposed development by Linc Cymru will involve the demolition of Caewern House located on Dwr-y-Felin Road in Caewern to make room for the construction of 36 affordable apartments. The Victorian building, which served as a care home until its closure in 2015, has been left vacant and subjected to vandalism over the years, leading to its deteriorating condition. The property comprises a three-storey building from the 19th century, an access track from Dwr-y-Felin Road, hard standing, and several trees on the site.
The approved plans include the demolition of the old house to build the flats along with new access points, car parking facilities, and landscaping. Each three-storey block of flats is designed with brown facing brick, dark grey semi-dressed stone detailing, UPVC windows and doors, rainwater goods, and a slate tiled roof. The flats will offer self-contained accommodation with one or two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen/dining area, bathroom or wet room, and a small external balcony area. The development will feature electric vehicle charging points and is set to provide much-needed local housing.
Despite the approval from the Neath Port Talbot Council, the plans faced opposition from some residents, leading to a decision to review the proposal by the council’s planning committee. Concerns were raised about potential loss of privacy, impacts on water capacity in the area, and increased traffic near the busy junction where the property is situated, already experiencing high traffic flow due to the proximity of a school, college, and care home. However, the highways department did not raise objections to the plans, citing compliance with necessary regulations on overlooking distances.
After deliberations and representations from both the developers and the public, councillors voted in favour of the proposal, with eight members supporting the decision, one opposing, and one abstaining. Despite calls for a site visit before the approval, the plans were given the go-ahead as they met the demand for affordable housing in the area and adhered to the required standards. The development is expected to revitalize the site of the former care home, providing much-needed housing options for the community.
The transformation of the former care home site into affordable flats signifies a positive step towards addressing the housing shortage and repurposing disused buildings in Neath. The decision highlights the council’s commitment to providing affordable housing options while balancing the concerns and interests of local residents. With this approval, the development is poised to bring new life to the area, offering modern living spaces and contributing to the community’s well-being.