Public Inquiry Set for Controversial Business Park on Family Farm
A public inquiry will examine plans for a business park on a family-run farm in Rhoose, raising concerns over biodiversity and heritage.
Rhoose, Wales, Business Park, Jenkins Family, Vale of Glamorgan, Legal and General
Rhoose: So, there’s this big debate going on about a business park that might be built on a family farm that’s been around for ages. The Jenkins family has been farming there since the 1930s, and now the local council is stepping in.
Back in March 2023, the Vale of Glamorgan Council said no to the plans from Legal and General. They were worried about how this park would affect local wildlife and the area’s history. It’s a pretty big deal, and people are really divided on it.
Legal and General didn’t take the rejection lightly. They appealed to the Welsh Government, saying the council took too long to decide. Now, they’re going to have a public inquiry to sort it all out, which is set for April 2025.
At a council meeting, one councillor mentioned that this might be the most controversial issue they’ve faced regarding climate change. They’re really trying to figure out what’s best for the environment while also considering development.
Not everyone is against the business park, though. Some council members think there are ways to make it work without harming the land. Legal and General believes the project could create a lot of jobs and even improve local green spaces.
They argue that their plans fit right in with what the council wants for development. They even say they’ll enhance biodiversity and add more green areas. It’s a tough situation, and everyone’s waiting to see how it plays out.