Newport Withdraws 31-Home Housing Redevelopment Project Proposal
The proposed 31-home redevelopment in Newport has been withdrawn, raising community concerns.
Newport, Wales, Housing, Redevelopment, Community
Newport: The housing redevelopment project for 31 homes has been withdrawn. The plan aimed to transform land north of Quilter Close into residential units. This decision was made on January 23.
Newport City Homes, along with Curl la Tourelle Head Architecture, was behind the project. They wanted to revamp the Aberthaw Road site as part of a larger effort to improve aging housing.
The goal was to create modern, energy-efficient homes and enhance community spaces. The project aligned with Planning Policy Wales and Newport’s Local Development Plan for sustainable development.
The design followed the Beautiful Homes and Spaces guidelines, focusing on quality and aesthetics. Plans included improving the streetscape and ensuring residents’ privacy.
Two consultation events in September and November 2022 allowed residents to share their thoughts. They raised concerns about parking, crime, and waste storage but showed interest in energy-efficient homes.
The redevelopment was set to offer a mix of one-bed and two-bed flats, plus two-bed and three-bed houses for social rent. The homes would meet the Lifetime Homes Standard for accessibility.
Design features included south-facing gardens, terraces, and balconies for outdoor space. The project aimed for net zero operational carbon, using energy-efficient systems.
It planned to incorporate sustainable materials like timber and provide 33 parking spaces, including wheelchair-accessible spots. There would also be secure bicycle storage and improved pedestrian access.
In line with Secure by Design standards, the project included security features like rated doors and enhanced lighting. The waste management plan followed Newport City Council’s guidelines.
The application involved demolishing existing buildings to make way for new residential units. The site, covering 0.40 hectares, currently has two blocks of flats surrounded by grassland.
Located near Alway Community Centre, the site is in a sustainable area with bus services. It’s in Flood Zone A, indicating low flooding risk, with no historical restrictions.
The proposal included 33 new residential units, 34 parking spaces, and secure cycle storage. Landscaping plans featured new green spaces and tree planting.
A Pre-Application Consultation was held from November to December 2022, with an engagement event on November 29. While the design received positive feedback, concerns about parking and green space loss were raised.
The proposal was seen as aligning with planning policies, aiming to improve housing quality while addressing affordability and sustainability.