Plans for 10 new homes in Rossett set for approval despite traffic concerns

Plans to build 10 new homes in Rossett could be approved next week despite concerns about the impact on the local road network.

The application to redevelop the site at Tyn Y Coed, on Chester Road in Rossett, was submitted in May 2023.

The outline proposals include the demolition of the existing property – which previously home to comedian Russ Abbot – and the development of up to 10 new properties.

Also included is the creation of a new vehicular access to the site and properties.

The application, due before Wrexham Council’s planning committee on June 3, has been recommended for approval by Chief Officer for Economy and Planning, David Fitzsimon.

However concerns have been raised about the impact the development could have on Chester Road – a busy route through Rossett.

Councillor Hugh Jones, who represents the ward, described the site as “one of the most difficult junctions in Rossett” which is “currently subject to significant issues following the introduction of new one way system at The Green and the continual issues regarding the Co-op.”

Rossett Community Council has also objected to the plan on the grounds of traffic generation and highway accessibility.

Councillor Ross Shepherd, who also represents Rossett, raised similar concerns about the poor access, a lack off affordable housing and noise pollution.

Eight representations from local residents were made against the proposals, with issues raised about the impact of the local health care provisions, inadequate parking, risk of flooding and over the planned access points.

One resident also noted that “it would be a shame” to demolish the home of Chester-born comedian and actor, Russ Abbot

However Wrexham Council’s highways department raised no objection to the plans, stating that the “proposed development would not have a significant impact on the operation of the highway.”

The officer also proposed that the site access is constructed to adoptable standards and that the applications “should consider a pedestrian crossing at the mouth of the site access.”

Addressing the concerns raised by local residents and councillors Mr Fitzsimon, the council’s chief officer for economy and planning, notes that the size of proposed development does not meet the requirement of providing affordable homes.

He continues onto note that it is “considered that the proposed development would not give rise to highway safety concerns”.

Commenting on the submitted site layout Mr Fitzsimon states that dwellings “with their rear gardens backing onto Chester Road would be at odds with the prevailing pattern and character of development in the vicinity.”

He adds: “Detailed matters relating to appearance, landscaping, layout and scale are reserved for subsequent consideration. The site layout plan is purely indicative and therefore the grant of outline permission would not commit the Council in respect of the detailed design of the site.

“The site is just over 0.7a in area so is large enough accommodate up to 10 dwellings, provide adequate private garden space and space for parking and turning. There would also be ample space to position and orientate dwellings in a manner that takes account of the character of existing development in the area.”

The chief officer concludes: “Subject to further consideration being given to detailed matters relating to access, appearance, landscaping, layout and scale at reserved matters stage, the proposed development need not give rise to highway safety, ecology, flood risk or residential amenity concerns and could preserve character and appearance of the Conservation Area.

“It therefore accords with the relevant LDP (Local Development Plan) policies.”

The application will be considered for approval by planning committee members on Monday 3 June at 4pm. The meeting will also be webcast on the Wrexham Council website.