Controversial plans for two Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) in Merthyr Tydfil have been rejected by councillors. The council’s planning committee confirmed the decision to refuse plans for a property in Ninth Avenue, Galon Uchaf, to be turned into an HMO for five people, as well as plans for a six-bedroom HMO and two flats at the Mount Pleasant Hotel in Cardiff Road, Merthyr Vale.
The committee had initially voted against officer recommendations on the Galon Uchaf plan in September citing concerns about highway safety and the character of the area. Now, their reasons for refusal have been confirmed, including potential increase in on-street parking and congestion, which would adversely affect highway safety and the existing residential character of the area.
Local residents raised objections over potential impacts on the area’s character, residential amenity, and highway safety. The council received 48 letters of objection and three petitions with a total of 425 signatures against the development. Concerns included unsuitability of location, parking issues, impact on community safety, and potential anti-social behaviour.
Despite officer recommendations for approval based on the need for affordable housing, the reasons for refusal were based on the impact on highway safety and the unsustainable location of the Mount Pleasant Hotel site. The development was deemed to exacerbate parking and congestion issues, especially during road closures on the A470, and lacked access to local amenities and transport links.
Councillors also discussed a change in ownership of the Mount Pleasant Hotel and raised questions about the application process if an appeal were to be made. This decision comes after a site visit was conducted for both applications in June.
Overall, these rejections reflect the concerns raised by the community and councillors regarding the unsuitability of the locations for HMO developments in Merthyr Tydfil. Residents and officials prioritised preserving the area’s character, ensuring highway safety, and maintaining the quality of life for local residents.