Concerns how Wrexham’s roads will cope as plans unveiled for over 450 houses near A483

Concerns have been raised over how Wrexham’s road network will cope after a consultation was launched on plans to build hundreds of new houses.

Russell Homes wants to build a total of 455 properties on a large area of green space off Mold Road in Stansty. The dual carriageway is one of the main routes into the town and the site also sits close to the A483.

However local councillor has now raised concerns over the impact it will have on traffic and pollution. It follows recent fears over a similar sized scheme outlined by Redrow on Ruthin Road in the town.

Plaid Cymru councillor Marc Jones said it would lead to hundreds of extra cars on the roads during rush hour.

He said: “If you look at the map you’ll see the planned new estate will fill all the fields to the south of the farm shop right next to the A483 and Mold Road roundabout.

“In addition, there will be houses on both sides of Stansty Lane beyond the underpass. This raises serious questions about increased traffic on what is essentially a country lane.

“It also raises questions about how the road network by Ysgol Plas Coch and adjoining roads will cope with hundreds of extra cars at peak times.”

He added: “Traffic is limited to 50mph on this stretch of the A483 due to nitrogen dioxide emissions.

“I’ve asked for more information from the developer and the council regarding the impact of putting more housing next door to the A483 if pollution is such a problem.”

The site has been included in Wrexham’s Local Development Plan, which was recently examined by inspectors.

However, the number of homes outlined in the document was smaller than in the proposals Russell Homes is now advertising.

In a letter to councillors, the company said road improvements would be carried out to address the increase in traffic.

Planning director Gary Lynch said: “Russell Homes’ proposals will deliver a new neighbourhood that will benefit the existing community and leave a positive legacy.

“Specifically, our plans for land at Mold Road and Stansty Chain Road will deliver the following benefits for Wrexham.

“The delivery of new homes on a site that has been identified through the plan-led system and is one of the most sustainable locations in the borough, being within walking and cycling distance of many local facilities and public transport connections in Wrexham.

“A scheme of road and signal improvements to be delivered by Russell Homes to ease congestion and help mitigate the impact of the new homes.

“The technical model shows that the proposed highways measures would deliver not only mitigation, but also a net betterment, helping relieve highways congestion for local drivers.”

Mr Lynch said a new bus stop would also be created on Mold Road.

The proposals include 114 affordable homes, which represents 25 per cent of the overall site.

A public exhibition is being held to display the plans in the 1864 Suite at Wrexham AFC’s Racecourse Ground on Wednesday, November 6.

The event will take place from 3pm until 7.30pm and a formal application is expected to be submitted to the local authority at a later date.

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