Testun llawn:
To: Planning Department
Vale of Glamorgan Council
I wish to formally object to the proposed residential development at Weycock Cross. My objection is based on conflict with the Local Development Plan (LDP), Planning Policy Wales (PPW), and placemaking and sustainability principles.
1. Infrastructure Capacity – Foul Drainage and Sewerage
Planning Policy Wales requires that development be supported by adequate infrastructure. There are ongoing concerns locally regarding sewage capacity and environmental discharges. Approving additional housing without confirmed and fully funded upgrades to wastewater infrastructure risks placing unacceptable strain on the system.
Development should not proceed where essential infrastructure is demonstrably insufficient or where it risks environmental harm. Without clear evidence of capacity improvements, the proposal is premature and contrary to sustainable development principles.
2. Loss of Productive Agricultural Land
The site comprises active, productive farmland. Planning Policy Wales emphasises the protection of the best and most versatile agricultural land and supports sustainable land use.
At a time when the UK is seeking greater food resilience and reduced reliance on imports, the irreversible loss of productive farmland undermines long-term sustainability objectives. The proposal conflicts with the principle of safeguarding rural resources for future generations.
3. Highway Capacity and Severe Traffic Impact
Weycock Cross already experiences significant congestion. Peak-time journeys from Rhoose to Whitmore commonly take up to 45 minutes. The junction is operating under strain, and additional housing will inevitably increase traffic movements.
Under placemaking principles, development should not create unacceptable impacts on existing communities. Without substantial and deliverable highway improvements, the cumulative impact on traffic flow, safety, and community wellbeing would be severe.
4. Air Quality and Public Health
Increased congestion results in prolonged idling and higher emissions. This has direct consequences for air quality and public health. Planning Policy Wales promotes development that minimises pollution and protects health.
Approving development that exacerbates existing congestion contradicts these policy aims and undermines environmental quality for current and future residents.
5. Unsustainable Location and Poor Public Transport Provision
The site is not sustainably connected. The only bus service serving the area is the 304, which is unreliable and does not provide comprehensive connectivity. There are no meaningful cycle provisions and limited safe active travel infrastructure.
Welsh planning policy prioritises sustainable transport and reducing reliance on private vehicles. Given the limited public transport and active travel options, future residents would be heavily car-dependent. This is inconsistent with national and local transport sustainability objectives.
Conclusion
The proposal:
1. Places additional strain on already stretched infrastructure
2. Results in the permanent loss of productive farmland
3. Exacerbates severe congestion at Weycock Cross
4. Worsens air quality and environmental conditions
5. Fails to meet sustainable transport and placemaking principles
For these reasons, the development conflicts with the Local Development Plan and Planning Policy Wales. I respectfully request that the Vale of Glamorgan Council refuse this application unless and until demonstrable, funded infrastructure solutions and sustainable transport provisions are secured.
Yours faithfully,
Martyn Grey.
