Plans to construct 30 affordable homes on a car park in New Quay have once again been postponed, prompting significant debate within the community. Barcud, the housing association behind the proposal, has sought approval from Ceredigion County Council for a scheme aimed at providing 100% affordable housing at the Central car park located on Towyn Road.

Originally set for a decision this month, the fate of the application has now been delayed for the third time. The proposal to partially convert the pay-and-display car park has ignited petitions both supporting and opposing the initiative. It had previously been recommended for conditional approval by the council’s development management committee after deferring the application for a site visit.

Barcud has indicated that it could close the car park, which it owns and operates commercially, at any moment. The current proposal includes maintaining 91 out of the 315 parking spaces currently available at the site. Council officers have noted that these spaces could be secured “in perpetuity” should the plan receive approval.

Opposition to the plans has come from New Quay Town Council, which raised concerns about the reduction in parking spaces and the potential consequences for local tourism. The Council highlighted the absence of sufficient public transport options for new residents and questioned the demand for one-bedroom units within the town.

The New Quay Traders’ Association has voiced its objections, launching an online petition that states the car park is vital to the local economy. They argue, “Taking away this space will lead to a significant decrease in visitors and tourists. It’s a simple equation. Less parking equals less visitors. Less visitors will impact our economy and cause job losses.”

In response to the opposition, an alternative petition was created soon after, asserting that many locals are hesitant to publicly support the housing scheme out of fear of backlash from second-home owners. This petition articulates that the proposed homes are intended for local families and individuals who have long been part of the community. It suggests that tourism and the influx of second-home owners have pushed many young families aside.

The latest postponement came after procedural concerns were raised by the New Quay Traders’ Association. A spokesperson for Ceredigion Council stated that additional information provided by Barcud following the last review is currently under assessment and will be brought back before the planning committee. The next scheduled meeting to discuss the matter is set for May 14.

Sara Powell, representing the traders’ association, indicated that they will formally request the Welsh Government to independently review the application. She expressed concern over the implications of losing the car park, stating that it poses an “existential threat to New Quay’s economy” and highlighted growing public distrust in the handling of the situation by the council.

Source: Noah Wire Services