Plans for 155 homes in Undy backed for approval despite objections

Plans to build up to 155 homes on fields near the M4 in Monmouthshire have been recommended for approval, despite dozens of objections.

Planners have backed plans to build homes on land either side of Vinegar Hill in Undy, with councillors set to make a decision this week.

The hybrid planning application by Bovis Homes, now part of Vistry Group, seeks full consent for 72 homes and outline permission for up to 155 homes.

A mix of homes from one-bedroom flats to four-bedroom houses are proposed in the application for 72 homes on two fields on the west side of the site.

Eighteen of the homes would be allocated as affordable housing, made up of four one-bedroom flats, nine two-bedroom houses, four three-bedroom houses and one four-bedroom house.

The other homes would be made up of 15 two-bedroom houses, 15 three-bedroom houses and 24 four-bedroom houses.

On the other side of Vinegar Hill, outline permission is being sought for up to 83 homes.

It is indicated the development would include a mix of one-bedroom flats and two-four-bedroom homes.

More than 70 comments were lodged in response to the original plans, with most objecting.

A range of concerns were raised, including about an increase in traffic, inadequate public transport provision, an increase in pollution and over development.

Objectors also voiced safety worries over a proposal to close Vinegar Hill, resulting in a rethink to the plans.

Now the proposal includes a partial closure of the road, but the amended plans have been met with a further 45 letters of objection.
Magor and Undy Community Council has also called for the plans to be refused.

Monmouthshire council’s environmental health officer has also raised concerns about the impact of noise from the M4 on some of the homes.

Under Welsh Government planning guidance, some of the homes fall within an area where, due to noise levels, “planning permission should not normally be granted”.

The homes in this area will be provided with enhanced insulation, uprated acoustic glazing and mechanical ventilation to achieve acceptable noise levels, according to a planning report.

Recommending approval, the report says the site is allocated for housing within the council’s Local Development Plan.

It adds that while the plans would increase the population of Undy, planning contributions would help compensate for the development.

Councillors on Monmouthshire council’s planning committee will decide the plans at a meeting next Wednesday, January 12.