Flats approved at former Ffaldau Arms
Bridgend Council’s Planning Committee unanimously approved the redevelopment of the former Ffaldau Arms pub in Pontycymer into flats (pdf). The pub was destroyed by a fire and demolished 15 years ago.
The development – which has been changed since the application was first submitted – now consists of 12 (down from 14) one and two-bed apartments separated into two blocks. Parking would be provided to the rear, accessed via an undercroft.
A proposal for three retail units has also been removed.
Outline permission granted for development at former Groundworks Ogwr offices
Outline approval was also unanimously granted for six detached houses at the former Groundworks Ogwr offices (pictured) at Tondu Ironworks (pdf).
An outline application means only the principle of building houses has been approved. A full planning application – showing the exact details of the development – would need to be submitted at a later date.
There were objections from nearby residents, Ynysawdre Community Council and local ward member, Cllr. Tim Thomas (Ind, St. Bride’s Minor & Ynysawdre).
Concerns include overdevelopment in the Tondu area, the possible impact on bats living in nearby trees and the loss of the Groundworks building which could otherwise have a beneficial community use.
Cllr. Norah Clarke (Ind, Nottage) noted that the developer has a choice to either make 20% of homes in the development affordable or provide a financial contribution; how would a financial contribution be worked out?
Cllr. Jonathan Pratt (Con, Newton) asked about measures to provide habitat for bats, such as bat bricks and bird boxes.
A planning officer said that a formula is used to calculate affordable housing contributions. Also, the council’s ecologists were initially unhappy with the developer’s proposals but following further work are satisfied.
The council will seek to include conditions on biodiversity enhancements in any future full planning application.
