'Gherkin' returns (From Penarth Times)

'Gherkin' returns

DEVELOPERS seeking to build a massive 18-storey housing development, dubbed the "The Gherkin" the first time around, have submitted an amended application to Vale planners.

A spokesman for the Vale of Glamorgan council confirmed that opponents to the scheme will have to submit fresh letters of objection in view of the amendments to the original plans.

Alwyn Evans, Press officer for Plaid Cymru in the Vale, said: "These amendments are of a very minor nature. The new proposal is virtually identical to the original one. This a practice frequently adopted by developers. It's a war of attrition. They wear you down until they get their own way. Everybody will have to submit letters again for their objections to stand.

"The scale of this proposal is absurd. It will dwarf the cliff. It's a monstrous thing, like a giant, upright gherkin."

The new proposal is for an 18-storey tower comprising three town houses and 63 apartments.

The application has been made by Sky Assets Ltd.

Objectors must write to the Head of Planning and Transportation at the Vale Council within 14 days.

Sue Meacham, 58, of Cherwell Road, said: "This proposal is completely out of keeping with the character of the area, which has a number of Listed buildings.