Plans for 650 homes and the redevelopment of a former college site have been given the green light by Cardiff Council’s planning committee, as reported by Wales Online. The decision came after a meeting on Thursday, November 7, where several significant development proposals were approved. Along with the 650 homes planned for the land south of Creigiau, there are also plans to expand Ysgol Gyfun Glantaf in Llandaff North, a Welsh language school.
The proposal for the 650 homes faced opposition from some residents concerned about the loss of green space. However, council officials highlighted that the land had already been earmarked for housing in the current local development plan. Despite objections raised by councillors like Cllr Catriona Brown-Reckless and Cllr Rhys Livesy, the application was approved in principle. The new development is set to include initiatives such as a green corridor and dormouse bridges to mitigate the environmental impact.
The former site of Michaelston College in Ely will see the creation of a ‘wellbeing village’, comprising 107 independent living apartments and 128 homes for sale. The development will also feature community amenities such as a cafe, GP surgery, and community hall. While the concept of the wellbeing village has received general support from the community, concerns have been raised about potential traffic issues along Michaelston Road.
Residents have expressed worries about existing traffic congestion in the area and fear that the housing scheme could exacerbate the situation. To address these concerns, the project developers, Cardiff Council and Waites, have proposed improvements to the road infrastructure, including a priority junction and a mini-roundabout at key intersections. The scheme also includes provisions for car parking spaces and amenities for community use alongside the residential units.
In addition to the housing projects, plans to expand Ysgol Gyfun Glantaf have been approved. The expansion includes new facilities such as a special resource base, a 2G sports pitch, and a community cafe. The aim is to create a more inclusive learning environment for students with additional needs, while also providing a space for the wider community to enjoy. Cycle parking spaces and improvements to the River Taff footpath are also part of the proposed development.
Overall, these development plans signal a significant transformation for Cardiff, with new housing opportunities, educational enhancements, and community facilities on the horizon. While concerns have been voiced regarding issues like traffic impact and environmental conservation, the approved projects are poised to bring positive changes to the city. The efforts to address these concerns through thoughtful design and mitigation strategies demonstrate a commitment to balancing development with sustainability and community welfare.