Image Source: Bridgend County Borough Council

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Bridgend Council’s Planning Committee has approved an application from Codi Housing Association (the former Linc and Pobl housing associations) for 62 one-bedroom apartments on the site of Sunnyside House/former Water Board building at Angel Street in Bridgend town centre.

The five-storey development will be directly across from the Sunnyside Wellness Village, the housing element of which is also being delivered by Codi.

The report (pdf) states that several changes have been made to the design of the apartments since it was first submitted in 2022. These changes include improvements to the building’s appearance, a more prominent entrance and increased cycle storage.

Landscaping improvements have also been promised. These include wildflower planting, a rain garden and new hedgerows.

Lack of parking spaces, and privacy, key concerns

There were no objections from statutory consultees. However, nearby residents and local political representatives did submit objections.

Bridgend Town Council objected based on a unanimous decision following a public meeting held in 2025.

Cllrs. Steven Bletsoe and Tim Wood (both Ind, Bridgend Central) and Cllr. Ian Williams (Ind, Oldcastle) objected due to a lack of parking spaces. Only 28 would be provided, when they believe that BCBC’s planning guidance for the area recommends more than 70 spaces be provided.

Other objections raised by councillors and residents include the over-intensification of development in the area, loss of privacy due to the building’s height and concerns about anti-social behaviour.

Town centre parking “under review”

During the meeting, Cllr. Anthony Berrow (Ind, Bryntirion, Laleston & Merthyr Mawr) raised concerns about the pressure this development, and the soon-to-open Bridgend Wellness Centre, will put on parking spaces at Bridgend Life Centre/The Rec.

Planning and highways officers stated that due to the development’s “sustainable” town centre location, the number of parking spaces can be reduced in line with national policies. A town centre parking strategy is in development.

Additionally, future residents will not be able to apply for residential parking permits on Sunnyside Road.

There was a recorded vote. As a Committee member, Cllr Ian Williams was unable to vote as they had formally objected to the application.