Agenda item

Cabinet Member: Councillor Gareth W Griffith

To present the Review Report and receive the Committee comments on its content.  

To accept the report and note the observations received.

To accept the report and note the observations received.

A report was submitted by the Cabinet Member - Environment noting that this report before the Committee was to receive the members comments.   

The Joint Planning Policy Unit Manager explained that it was a requirement for the Council to prepare a brief review report and include some certain matters e.g. information that will be considered to guide the Local Development Plan.

Reference was made to Appendix 1 and it was noted that it was split into 6 parts. All the parts were discussed thoroughly by explaining the purpose of each one. 

The next steps were discussed, namely that a 6-week public consultation would take place before a final report would be brought before the Full Council. The Committee was asked to consider the draft review report and offer comments on matters that need reviewing while preparing the amended plan.

During the discussion the following observations were made:

-          It was asked why the Council was joint planning with Anglesey as no other counties in Wales collaborate in the same manner.   It was noted that Gwynedd has its unique needs and deserves its own plan.   

-          Reference was made to page 53 of the programme where it was noted that the housing provision has fallen under the target.

-          It was noted that there was an impact on communities as the Wylfa plans were no longer proceeding and it was suggested that the number of houses designated within the plan be subject to conditions regarding developing without endangering communities.

-          Questions were raised regarding demolition and re-building of houses much larger than the original ones. Although more expensive to buy, these houses are more cost effective,

-          Concern was raised regarding building houses without need and it was noted that they were not affordable for the majority of Gwynedd and Anglesey residents.

-          The review was welcomed and the other members comments were agreed regarding the need for new houses as Gwynedd and Anglesey’s population was static.

-          It was suggested that an affordable local housing market was needed across the counties and not in some areas alone as evidence showed that housing was out of reach to most local people.

-          Enquiries were made regarding 'ScottishPower’s' pilot scheme as there was fuel poverty in Penllyn, but it was not included in the plan. 

-          Pride was noted as consideration was being given to biodiversity, however, attention was drawn to the lack of discussion in the AONB area.

-          A point was raised regarding using local materials for example local slate on houses built - to ensure work in the quarry and that money stays local. 

-          Disappointment was expressed that it was not possible for children of farming families to stay in their homes as it was not possible for them to build houses on the land. It was added that this leads to farms being sold. 

In response the Officers noted the following:

-          They agreed that the situation was different by now following the news that the Wylfa development would not proceed and this would be included when amending the plan.

-          It was noted with assurance that firm evidence would be needed in order to develop houses and that there was local need for them.

-          They added that it was very relevant from every aspect of the new plan for all types of developments to meet the Council's carbon requirements.

-          The Committee was reminded that a paper had been brought before them regarding second homes and consequently a report was presented to the Senedd.

-          It was noted that information regarding the 'ScottishPower' plan was on their website in order to receive further information on the areas that are a part of the plan.

-          The member’s point on the use of local materials was recognised, however, it was noted that it was unlawful to set conditions on materials and only a condition in terms of ensuring the material is similar in terms of appearance was possible.

-          It was suggested that the members should participate in the consultation in order to voice their opinions on the points raised in the Committee today that are beyond the report's remit.