Homes plan is a major concern

DURING both the Westminster and Assembly elections, I campaigned against proposed housing development in the Tondu area, which has prompted me to continue the “unfinished business” of fighting the proposed 450 dwellings off Maesteg Road, Tondu, by Merthyr Mawr Estates.

While appreciating the need for more housing with a growing population and a requirement for more affordable housing, future developments must be sustainable and meet the needs of locals.

However, I not only believe that local residents, who I have been proud to campaign with, have solid reasons to object to the proposal, but residents from further afield in the Llynfi Valley should be aware of possible implications.

My main concerns over this proposal are the impact on the local ecology, especially bat and bird populations, the effect the development will have on water supplies and, with concerns already existing over drainage, what effect a proposal of this stature may have on flooding.

With the unique characteristics of Park Terrace, not to mention the historic Tondu Ironwork, what effect will new building and the elimination of further green spaces have on the area?

Residents have also raised concerns with me about the impact on already stretched services such as lack of adequate doctors, dentists and school places and the impact more development will have on them.

Perhaps the strongest concern is the increased pressure to an already insufficient transport and road network. I remain unconvinced that the realignment of Maesteg Road will make a difference, especially with improvements also required with the Aberkenfig roundabout and surrounding approaches.

I know that many local people have already written in to the BCBC planning department with concerns and I hope given the knock-on effect to surrounding communities, people from outside the immediate vicinity will voice their concerns and pay further dividends to an increasingly illprepared Local Development Plan. Tim Thomas Former Plaid Cymru Assembly candidate for Ogmore