Scheme to build thousands of homes approved by one vote

ACONTROVERSIAL development which includes plans to build thousands of new houses in Gwynedd was given the green light – by a majority of one vote.

Gwynedd and Anglesey together have plans for a total of 8,000 new houses.

Yesterday the Joint Local Development Plan came before Gwynedd’s full council, and after impassioned pleas for and against for two hours and 30 minutes, the vote was taken on whether or not to adopt the plan for the 2011-26 period.

It sets out how land will be used for new homes and jobs over the 15-year period.

In the end, 30 councillors at the meeting in Caernarfon voted for the plan and 30 voted against. There were four abstentions, while 10 members were absent.

The plan was carried on the casting vote of council chair Annwen Daniels, Plaid Cymru councillor for Blaenau Ffestiniog.

There were shouts of “Gwarth! (disgrace)” and “Shame!” as the result was recorded.

Before the meeting, around 60 people attended a protest organised by Cymdeithas yr Iaith, where speakers implored the council to refuse the plans.

Opening the debate, Gwynedd environment cabinet member Dafydd Meurig (Plaid Cymru) said councils had to carry out an LDP.

He said: “The risk of not adopting an LDP is that there will be nothing to stop developers submitting plans for areas not protected.”

Coun Aled Evans (Plaid Cymru) was applauded after saying this was the first time councillors had been given a chance to give their view on the plans.

Both Couns Sion Jones (Labour) and Alwyn Gruffydd (Llais Gwynedd) referred to a language study stating the plans would lead to a 2% drop in Welsh speakers.

Many Plaid Cymru members voted against the plan – however, Plaid’s Paul Rawlinson said if it was refused, it would open the doors to developers.

Afterwards, council leader Dyfrig Siencyn (Plaid Cymru) said: “The plan we have approved is based on comprehensive evidence regarding the matters which are most important for local people – housing which includes affordable housing, jobs and the Welsh language.”

A full meeting of the Isle of Anglesey County Council will consider the plan on Monday.