‘Bonkers’traffic claims fail to stop 30 new homes

PLANNING inspectors have overruled Gwynedd’s councillors by allowing permission to build 30 homes near Ysbyty Gwynedd, despite claims that traffic is already “bonkers” in the area.

December saw Gwynedd’s planning committee turn down a housing association’s application for the mix of two and three bedroom homes at Pen-y-Ffridd, Penrhosgarnedd on the outskirts of Bangor.

Committee members had gone against the advice of the authority’s own officers in refusing Adra’s plans, citing the impact on the already congested road.

But after an appeal was launched, independent planning inspectors have decided to overrule the committee’s original decision.

According to Anthony Thickett, who led the appeal investigation, it was not felt that councillors’ concerns over highway safety and the impact on the Welsh language were enough to refuse the proposals.

Councillors had claimed that “insufficient information” had been provided that it would not be a negative effect on the Welsh language, also feeling that the site entrance was unsuitable for a development of the proposed scale.

Mr Thickett, however, wrote in his report: “The Highway Authority conclude that Pen y Ffridd Road, its junction with Penrhos Road and Penrhos Road are capable of accommodating the proposed development.

“I am aware of the concerns of local residents but have seen no empirical evidence to lead me to a different view.

“I conclude, therefore, that the proposed development would not have an adverse impact on highway safety and would comply with LDP Policies TRA 2 and TRA 4.”

A 74-signature petition against the plans was submitted by locals.