MORE than 100 concerned residents from across Conwy flocked to a special Council meeting last week to protest controversial housing plans.
Full Council was called to discuss the Local Development Plan, which provides the planning strategy until 2022, following public outrage over housing developments on green spaces across the county in places such as Bodafon Farm and areas surrounding Dwygyfylchi.
In response to residents’ anger over the plans, the council agreed to request the Welsh Government “urgently review” the current population projections and number of houses earmarked for development, and the impact these projections have on the green spaces across the county.
It was also confirmed that due to this possible “detrimental effect” to the local environment and services such as health, education and policing, the support of all Assembly Members would be sought to lobby the Welsh Government to review guidance encouraging large scale developments.
Assembly member Janet Finch-Saunders, who called the meeting in her capacity as County Councillor,was delighted with the outcome of the meeting.
She said: “We have stated that the number of new-build houses proposed under the plan was too high for the needs of Conwy and would potentially threaten local services and culture. The housing needs projections used in the plan are based on out-dated information obtained during the housing boom and not in line with current trends.
“Throughout the many meetings I have attended concerning the Conwy LDP the strong message from the Welsh Government has been that they would reject a lower figure. Yet only recently First Minister Carwyn Jones said that Local Authorities are responsible for the housing allocations in their own LDPs.”
During the meeting, the Council also agreed to seek clarification regarding the Welsh Government's involvement and influence in the LDP.
Cllr Finch-Saunders added: “I believe that in addition to the decisions made yesterday Conwy County Borough Council must start the ball rolling now by seeking to obtain projection figures that better reflect the real need.
“There is a real danger that this plan in its current form will also impact on our Natural Environment, our Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage.”
Cllr Roger Parry expressed his concern over the current LDP proposal, citing a lack of progressive job opportunities to keep young people in Conwy and inward migration as problems which need addressing.
He said: " Green fields don't grow on trees - once they're gone, they're gone."
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