Plans for 20 new homes in Harlech approved despite flooding concerns

Plans to build 20 affordable homes in Harlech have been approved despite flooding concerns.

Eryri National Park Authority’s planning committee granted permission for the development on land adjoining Pen yr Hwylfa in Harlech, when it met on September 6.

The application, submitted by Williams Homes (Bala) Ltd, included plans for four apartments, two bungalows and 14 houses.

The site is next to the A496, on the northern edge of Harlech, opposite the Tŷ Canol estate.

A planning officer said the homes “fitted in well” with the semi-rural area.

Two letters of objection were submitted due to concerns over drainage and questions over whether the homes would go to local people.

Harlech Community Council said it supported the scheme in principle, however some members objected due to the “increased pressure on the sewage and water systems”.

Gwynedd Archaeological Planning Service highlighted “archaeological implications” and recommended mitigation measures.

Meanwhile, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service said the homes would only slightly extend the built area of Harlech.

Cadw also said the “slight visual impact” would not have any effect on Harlech Castle and the World Heritage Site.

The scheme was considered acceptable subject to conditions by officers and the applicant agreed to sign an agreement for the homes to go to local people.

The proposals will also see the creation of a new vehicular and pedestrian access, along with a new footpath, internal access road and parking.

The plans followed a consultation involving the Grŵp Cynefin housing association and were “designed to meet evidenced local needs for affordable dwellings”, the meeting heard.

A flood assessment found there would be no consequences in terms of flooding, with the scheme including a surface water drainage system and a connection to the foul sewer.

Agent Jamie Bradshaw said it was “an entirely affordable development”.

He said: “It exceeds the required 33 percent affordable homes provision by a considerable amount, providing 20 homes rather than 7.3, sought by policy.”

Chairman Cllr Annwen Hughes said she supported the homes “100 percent” saying there was “a real need” for affordable housing in Harlech.

“I would be glad to see this development come to fruition,” she said.

The scheme was approved at the end of the debate.

By Dale Spridgeon – Local Democracy Reporter