Appeal over plans for small housing development on outskirts of Wrexham is rejected

An appeal over the refusal of a small housing scheme on the outskirts of Wrexham has been thrown out.

It comes despite claims young people growing up in Bronington, which sits near to the border with Shropshire, are unable to find homes in the village.

Wrexham Council originally rejected plans for six houses on land opposite Maesllwyn Close in February amid concerns about the impact on the surrounding countryside, as well as on nearby trees and hedgerows.

The landowners behind the application later launched a bid to have the decision overturned as they said it help young adults to get their foot on the property ladder.

However, the appeal has now been dismissed by a planning inspector, who said the proposals would harm the appearance of the area.

In his decision notice, Richard Jenkins said: “Despite being located within relative close proximity to Ty Melin to the south and Pear Tree House to the north, it would undoubtedly represent both a physical and visual incursion into a countryside setting.

“Having considered all matters raised, I do not consider the matters in favour of the development to justify the harm and policy conflict identified in this case.

“In coming to this conclusion, I have been particularly mindful of the substantial harm that would arise to the countryside setting.

“I am also mindful of the limited sustainability credentials associated with the proposed development and the fact that the development would only make a limited contribution to the local housing land supply.

“It is also notable that the dwellings proposed would not constitute affordable housing.”

The total number of houses outlined was revised down to five in the appeal documents in order to address some of the issues raised.

The landowners said they already reached an agreement for the site to be developed by Primesave Properties,  a company which specialises in smaller houses.

The firm was also behind the creation of nine houses in the village of Penley, where they said a new two-bedroom semi-detached home was available for less than £120,000.

But Mr Jenkins said the loss of the surrounding natural habitat could not be justified.

By Liam Randall – BBC Local Democracy Reporter (more here on the LDR scheme).