Council hopeful that abattoir development can be revived

Economic chiefs on Anglesey remain hopeful that a resolution can be found after planners refused plans to develop a former abattoir into a new industrial estate.
A planning bid to build 14 business units on Gaerwen’s former Welsh Country Foods site was turned down by planning officers after the applicants failed to prove that the plans would not have an impact on species of newt in the area.
But despite the initial refusal, council chiefs have confirmed to the Local Democracy Reporting Service confirmed that talks are ongoing with the developers where it is hoped that common ground can be found to move the plans forward.
Owned by Dutch food group, Vion, the decision to close the abattoir in 2013 saw the loss of 300 jobs with the site having lain dormant ever since.
But there were fresh hopes that new jobs could be created after a planning application was submitted by Amber REI Holdings Ltd to demolish the existing abattoir buildings and build 14 new business units, which they said could create several new jobs in the village.
Dylan Williams, the authority’s deputy chief executive, said that they remained supportive of the plans “in principle.”
“The planning service is in principle supportive of this development and its potential economic benefits,” said Mr Wiliams.
“However, officers had no option but to refuse the planning application due to the lack of necessary information contrary to national legislation and policies.
“The developer has accepted this and is in ongoing discussions with Planning officers.
“They would encourage the developer to resubmit the application with the appropriate information for further consideration.
“The county council’s economic development officers will also be in touch to discuss further. ”
The planning department’s original decision notice stated that: “insufficient information” has been received to assess the extent of adverse effects on Great Crested Newts, “together with any avoidance or mitigation measures required.”
The northern crested newt, also known as the great crested newt or warty newt, can be found across Europe and parts of Asia and is the biggest and least common of the three newts found in the British Isles.
According to the planning documents accompanying the application, the development would have covered over 27,000 square feet.
“A significant number of jobs are to be created as part of the proposed development. Demolition and construction works are anticipated to commence immediately following the grant of planning permission,” it stated.
“It is expected that the employment opportunities during the demolition works and construction of the proposed development can be met locally.”

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter