Decision on supported housing scheme in Llay paused until site visit complete

A decision on plans to build a supported housing scheme in Llay have been temporarily put on hold until a site visit by planning committee members has been undertaken.

Councillors had been discussing plans earlier this week for the scheme on Eleventh Avenue in Llay, which had been recommended for approval by the head of environment and planning.

The development would be based across two floors, with the “ground floor providing two one-bedroom apartments for residents with high support needs”.

In the initial application each apartment is described as having an open plan kitchen, living and dining areas, bedroom and assisted bathroom. A staff base would also be located between the two apartments, with the application stating that two jobs will be created.

Background about the proposals provided within the application’s initial design and access statement, explained that “Ainsley Gommon Architects have been appointed by First Choice Housing Association to develop proposals for a new build supported housing” at the site.

It is also noted that the scheme has been “developed in partnership with Wrexham County Borough Council following the identification of housing need for four no. residents with high support needs within the Llay area.”

Speaking at this week’s meeting, Planning Officer David Williams said: “In terms of the proposed development the scheme you are looking to approve is a revised scheme. It is a fairly simple, two storey design and would sit in the middle of the site, overlooking the adjoining open space area and parking to the front.”

Mr Williams continued onto say that tests with regards to potential loss sunlight and separation impact on the neighbouring properties had been carried out and passed.

It was also noted that the “principle has already been established” in terms of using the site for housing, with permission granted for a separate application in 2010. This however never came to fruition.

However Cllr Rob Walsh and Cllr Bryan Apsley, who both represent the Llay ward, called for a site visit for committee members to see the potential visual impact of the development before making a final decision.

Cllr Walsh noted that while the proposals has passed tests in terms of lighting and separation from adjoining properties, there are concerns from residents about the proximity of the development.

He added: “Anyone who knows Eleventh Avenue knows it is a mixture of two storey properties and bungalows. You’ll find that when you come to the avenue, you have two storey colliery houses on either side then a square which has OAP bungalows.

“With the site for the proposed development, if it was bungalows I would have no concerns. With two storey houses it could look odd in that location.

“Due to the unusual nature of Eleventh Avenue I would like members to have a look for themselves and see if two storey buildings in this location would be appropriate.

14 committee members voted in favour of a site visit, three against and one abstention.

The site visit and meeting on the proposed development will take place later this month.

*Picture – Google Maps