Concerns over plans to build 33 apartments

RESIDENTS have objected to new affordable homes being built in a Cardiff suburb because it’s not in keeping with their “small village”.

Planners will be asked to decide on Wednesday if 33 new affordable apartments can be built at the former Droke House on Newport Road in Old St Mellons.

But residents say problems.

An objection from Old St Mellons Community Council says a lack of parking spaces in the plans would mean people would park on the pavement along Newport Road and obstruct the cycle lane.

There has been a previous application for the site which was for 34 flats with 10 parking spaces.

This application is for 33 apartments and 11 parking spaces, including three disabled bays, 33 secure covered cycle parking spaces and five secure covered mobility scooter parking spaces.

The objections are that there are too many units being planned for the site and that it would “jeopardise the conservation environment of Old St Mellons”.

Another concern reads: “Following issues in the past all four very local public houses and the off licence premises are now part of the Pub Watch Scheme. The area needs to be well patrolled to ensure no further disturbances occur. Further significant development in the close it will cause traffic proximity of the licenced premises would aggravate the situation”.

Another resident says the new development would overlook their garden.

“We are strongly objecting as this planned building will be overlooking our garden. I feel that we are surrounded in affordable and association properties in our area. This build is also not privately owned properties so it is going to affect the selling price of my property.

“I have worked all my life to buy a house on a private estate so I don’t feel it is fair for a privately owned property turned into association flats this is totally unfair to the residents surrounding it.

“I also feel it is not in keeping with the small village”.

Another resident, from Orchard Park, says that there is “insufficient parking”.

“The planners estimate that car ownership will be under fifty percent, but it needs to be under 25% for there not to be a problem, and that is before visitors are accounted for.”

In response, officers say that there is “no evidence” that future occupiers of the proposed development “would exacerbate any existing situation”.

The scheme is recommended approval.

Planning officers say: “The proposals include the redevelopment of an unattractive and conflicting commercial vehicle garage site and provide affordable housing in an area identified as having high housing need. It is considered that the standard of the layout and design will enhance the appearance and amenity of the area.” for