Plans to convert a historic industrial site in Penmaenmawr into affordable housing have sparked apprehension among local residents. The North Wales Housing Association has submitted a proposal to Conwy County Council to transform the former Brookes Tarpaulins building on Bangor Road into 20 affordable apartments. The development is set to be discussed at an upcoming planning committee meeting at Bodlondeb.
While the project aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the area, some locals fear it could lead to increased traffic congestion, potential anti-social behaviour, and other disruptions. The site is located in a narrow cul-de-sac, which has raised concerns about access and the impact of construction activities on the surrounding neighbourhood.
Details of the Proposed Development
The proposal outlines plans to convert the existing light industrial building into a mix of 10 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom flats. All units are designated as affordable housing, intended to provide accommodation for low-income households in Penmaenmawr. The development includes provisions for parking facilities and landscaped areas to enhance the local environment.
Support and Opposition from the Community
Penmaenmawr Town Council has not raised any objections to the proposal, acknowledging the potential benefits of increasing the local affordable housing stock. However, several residents living near the site have expressed concerns about the project’s potential impact on their community.
One resident, who lives in close proximity to the proposed development, voiced worries about the possibility of heavy traffic and questioned the selection process for future tenants. They expressed fears that the development could lead to frequent disturbances and increased visits by law enforcement, implying concerns over potential anti-social behaviour.
Another couple residing nearby highlighted issues related to access and the effect on existing views. They noted that access to the property appears tight, especially with a public right-of-way path leading up from the Esplanade. They questioned how the development might impact the views and quality of life for current residents, many of whom live in close quarters to the site.
Traffic and Construction Concerns
Traffic congestion has emerged as a significant issue among the objections. A local resident pointed out the narrowness of the cul-de-sac and expressed worry that construction vehicles such as lorries and diggers could cause problems for those living on the Esplanade during the demolition and construction phases. The concern is that the already limited access could be further strained, leading to disruptions in daily life for existing residents.
Overlooking and Parking Issues
A member of Conwy County Council, while supportive of the overall aim to provide affordable housing, raised concerns about the potential for new extensions to be overbearing and overlook existing properties, potentially infringing on residents’ privacy. Additionally, concerns were raised about insufficient parking provisions within the development plan. Questions were also posed regarding whether the developers had adequately considered noise insulation, with suggestions that windows should be triple-glazed to mitigate potential disturbances.
Historical and Archaeological Considerations
The historical significance of the Brookes Tarpaulins building has not gone unnoticed. A local archaeological organisation expressed both apprehension and approval regarding the development. While acknowledging that the project could impact the historic environment, they commended the developers for their efforts to preserve the character of the building. Originally a chapel, the structure is considered a large example of Welsh vernacular architecture and has remained relatively intact despite various phases of modern use.
Council Recommendations and Next Steps
Despite the objections raised, planning officers at Conwy County Council have recommended that the development be approved. A planning report prepared ahead of the committee meeting cites “exceptional circumstances” to justify the change of land use from employment to residential. The report highlights the existing demand and shortfall for affordable housing in Penmaenmawr, as well as a potential oversupply of employment land in the wider Conwy county area.
“The current need for affordable housing and the potential excess of employment land in the county constitute exceptional circumstances that justify releasing this site for 100% affordable residential use,” the report states.
The planning committee is scheduled to convene at Bodlondeb on Wednesday to debate the proposals. If approved, the development will move into more detailed planning stages, where issues such as access, parking, and construction management will be further addressed to mitigate the concerns raised by local residents.
The proposed transformation of the Brookes Tarpaulins site into affordable housing has elicited a mixed response from the Penmaenmawr community. While there is recognition of the need for affordable homes to alleviate housing shortages, apprehensions persist regarding traffic, potential anti-social behaviour, and the impact on the historical character of the area.
The forthcoming planning committee meeting will be a decisive moment for the project. Should it receive approval, the focus will shift to how the development can proceed while addressing the valid concerns of the community. The balance between meeting housing needs and preserving the quality of life for existing residents remains a delicate issue, one that will likely influence future developments in the region.
