Plans to build 12 new “affordable flats” in Rhos set for go ahead

Plans to build twelve new apartments in Rhos look set to be given the go ahead next week.

The application, submitted on behalf of North West Housing Association by Broadgrove Planning and Development in November 2020, proposes that three buildings are erected on “vacant land adjoining a local authority car park” at Bonc Wen.

The development would consist of 12 one bedroom “affordable” apartments, along with 18 car parking spaces and bike storage.

In a report due before planning committee members on Monday (April 12) Lawrence Isted, Chief Officer Planning and Regulatory, has recommended that the application is approved

Commenting on the plans, Mr Isted said: “The general layout of the site is acceptable, and it will maintain a suitable pedestrian link between the car park and adjacent residential areas (Smith Street and Glanrafon), and the wider countryside.

“The Council’s normal amenity separation distances are complied with. The design is acceptable and will be in-keeping with the locality.

“The development will exceed the threshold of 10 dwellings, and therefore a contribution either on-site or off-site POS is required for a scheme comprising less than 25 dwellings.

“The site is immediately adjacent to some existing open space amenity areas, and therefore the need for off-site provision is not entirely necessary for the scale of development.

“No POS is required on site, but it is noted that the development will involve the rearrangement of the existing car park area, and therefore some soft landscaping measures are required at the edges to this area which will provide some visual amenity benefit for the area.

“The scheme will provide low-cost housing on a brownfield site and complies with adopted policies and guidance.”

The application will be considered by planning committee members at a virtual meeting at 4pm on Monday 12 April. The meeting will also be webcast on the Wrexham Council website.