A row has erupted in the peaceful town of New Quay as a group of ‘second-homers’ are being accused of hindering the development of much-needed affordable homes, Wales Online reports. The controversy revolves around plans by housing association Barcud to construct 30 affordable homes on a car park in the seaside town. This proposal, intended to address the pressing need for affordable housing, has faced opposition from locals and business owners alike.
Barcud has sought permission from the Ceredigion council to proceed with its 100% affordable housing scheme at the Central car park in New Quay. However, the plans have ignited a debate within the community, with conflicting petitions reflecting the differing viewpoints towards the development. Originally scheduled for a decision this month, the fate of the project has been deferred for the third time, prolonging the uncertainty surrounding this contentious issue.
The proposal by Barcud entails the transformation of the pay-and-display car park at Towyn Road, where the affordable homes would be situated. Despite the potential benefits of the scheme, concerns have been raised regarding the loss of parking spaces, the impact on tourism, and the inadequacy of public transport infrastructure to accommodate new residents. These apprehensions have been vocalised by various groups, including the New Quay town council and the New Quay Traders’ Association.
The association has expressed fears about the adverse effects of eradicating the car park on the local economy, emphasising the crucial role it plays in attracting visitors and sustaining businesses in the area. Moreover, a petition opposing the development highlights a broader issue of gentrification and displacement, with locals feeling sidelined by the influx of second-homeowners at the expense of long-standing community members.
Following objections and procedural irregularities raised by stakeholders, the application for the affordable housing scheme was recently postponed for further review. Sara Powell, representing the traders’ association, has underscored the significance of retaining the car park for the town’s economic viability. The association is now pressing for an independent review of the application, citing concerns about the council’s handling of the matter and the potential repercussions on New Quay’s economy.
As the debate intensifies, the Ceredigion council is tasked with assessing the additional information provided by the applicant and determining the next steps for the development. The fate of the proposed affordable housing scheme remains uncertain as it is slated to be re-evaluated by a planning committee on May 14. With livelihoods and housing prospects hanging in the balance, the conflict between affordable housing initiatives and the preservation of local amenities underscores the complex challenges facing communities like New Quay.