A proposed housing development in Powys has sparked significant concerns from local officials and residents regarding its impact on infrastructure and historic views.
Topics covered
Plans to build over 50 new homes in the historic town of Montgomery, Powys, have sparked a lively debate among local officials and residents. The proposal, put forth by Powis Estates, features 54 homes on Forden Road, right across from Verlon Close, with 11 of those set aside as affordable housing.
But what’s really getting people talking is the potential impact on local traffic and the views from the iconic Montgomery Castle. Is this development going to change the character of the town forever?
Proposal Overview and Local Opposition
The outline planning application, submitted back in March, lays out plans for a mix of two, three, and four-bedroom homes, which will include both semi-detached and detached options.
However, since this is just an outline application, it mainly establishes the principle of development. Further detailed submissions will be required for final approval before any construction can begin.
Montgomery Town Council has stepped up to formally object to the scheme, raising several critical concerns that they feel have been overlooked.
“The council has serious concerns about the ability of Montgomery’s existing infrastructure to support a development of this scale,” they stated. They pointed out that limited parking could worsen traffic congestion and accessibility issues, especially given the primary school’s struggles with capacity for additional students and the already stretched local GP services.
On top of that, the close proximity of the proposed site to Montgomery Castle is raising alarms about its visual impact on this historic landmark. “The council is extremely concerned about the impact on the setting of the castle and views from the castle,” they emphasized, highlighting just how important it is to preserve the town’s historic character. Could this development really threaten such a treasured site?
Political Response and Community Concerns
Cllr Jeremy Brignell-Thorp, who represents Forden and Montgomery, is calling for a thorough review of the application by the county councillors on the Planning Committee. He’s voiced his worries about the potential for increased congestion, stating, “Congestion and heavy traffic is a perennial problem in the town, and adding more housing will only worsen it.” He insists that any new development must come with necessary infrastructure improvements, like a new link road connecting Forden Road and Station Road, as outlined in the Local Development Plan.
The council’s objections mirror a growing community sentiment about striking a balance between development and maintaining local character. As more housing proposals come to light, residents are becoming increasingly vocal about the need for adequate infrastructure to support such growth. How can we ensure that development doesn’t come at the expense of our beloved town?
Developer’s Response and Future Steps
Planning agent Oliver O’Neill from Hughes Architects has provided some insights into the development’s design and intentions. He claims the project is aimed at enhancing the character of the surrounding area, with future applications planned to adhere to local styles and materials. O’Neill pointed to a traffic assessment included in the application, arguing that the proposed scheme wouldn’t negatively impact the town’s road infrastructure.
According to him, the study revealed that the new link road proposed in the LDP isn’t necessary for the development’s success. “Traffic generated by the 54 units falls within the normal range of day-to-day variations and will not cause noticeable changes in activity or increased conflict,” O’Neill asserted. But can we really trust that the traffic will remain manageable?
As this situation continues to unfold, a decision from the local council is expected soon. Residents and officials alike are left waiting, hopeful for a resolution that balances the need for development with the preservation of Montgomery’s historic charm. Will the town be able to adapt without losing its unique character? Only time will tell.
