Application for flats at Penaparcau approved

NINE flats will be built in Penparcau with an “innovative” modular form, replacing “eyesore” garages.

The former garages at Heol Dinas are to be replaced by a three-storey building, reducing to two and one storey with the contour of the land, with nine one-bedroom flats for socially rented housing next to Ysgol Gynradd Llwyn yr Eos.

Local member Cllr Lloyd Edwards told Ceredigion County Council’s development control committee on Wednesday (March 10) if it wasn’t for covid-19 he would have been calling for a public meeting about the development because of local concerns.

The application from Barcud – the merged Ceredigion and Mid-Wales Housing Association – is recommended for approval by planning officers and Cllr Edwards wanted it discussed in a “public forum” and requested it be placed on the committee agenda.

“I consider it an over development of the site, not in keeping with the area. Yes, the garages are an eyesore but they are only an eyesore due to the lack of maintenance over the years,” said Cllr Edwards.

He said there were also concerns about the school being overlooked – which have been addressed by the applicant with no windows overlooking from the rear.

“I don’t want to be prejudiced but from the experience of those living near other sites like this, I would ask how the housing association will monitor these flats,” he added.

Planning permission for the demolition of the garages and the erection of 12 flats is in place from 2012.

Cllr Dafydd Edwards said there was a need in Penparcau for these flats adding, “it’s nice to see something different presented to us. I think it fits in with the flats below it, when they were built they were very different to anything in the area, the area is familiar with new designs.”

The committee approved the application with a condition of local letting policy and that more screening be put in place between the car parking area and schools grounds.