A proposal to construct four separate houses on the site of an abandoned quarry has received approval from local councillors.
The two-floor homes will be nestled within the quarry’s rocky walls and sit lower than the current residences that look out over the location at West End in Undy.
During the Monmouthshire County Council planning committee session, an objector raised concerns about the quarry wall’s structural integrity. However, planning officer Phil Thomas explained that this falls outside planning considerations and that applicant Russell Griffiths would be required to comply with relevant safety regulations.
Mr Thomas informed members that the quarry is currently unused and was previously used for various purposes, including operating as a scrap yard, a repair workshop, and vehicle storage.
He continued that while an objector raised concerns about the rock face’s stability, this was not considered a relevant planning matter and the developer would be responsible for ensuring any work was conducted safely.
The officer noted an objection had been submitted by The Quarry, a bungalow with views over the site, though the closest of the proposed dwellings would be positioned at a sharp angle and its bedroom window would not orientate toward the existing property.
Two deteriorating structures on the site will be cleared while ground levels will be elevated by approximately one metre. The area sits within a flood plain. Mr Thomas advised that environmental body Natural Resources Wales raised no concerns, adding that because the flood plain extends across such a large area, the works would not heighten flood risks for any nearby properties.
Labour councillor John Crook, representing Magger East with Undy, expressed support for the scheme and pointed out that no statutory authorities had lodged objections and the proposal had backing from comprehensive assessments.
He stated that the developer had been meticulous in planning this project.
The application secured approval with 12 councillors voting in support. The permission also mandates that the applicant enters into a section 106 legal agreement to contribute almost £30,000 to the council for affordable housing provision off-site within the local area.