It's time to be heard (From Penarth Times)

It's time to be heard

ASSEMBLY member Lorraine Barrett has called on Penarthians to seize the moment and make their voices heard, as the Penarth Heights project enters public consultation stage.

Crest Nicholson, chosen by the Vale of Glamorgan Council as the developer for the site, presented their initial proposals and designs for the project for nearly 500 homes on the site of the Billybanks, at an exhibition held at the Paget Rooms last weekend.

Four-hundred people attended the two-day exhibition, and visitors were given a feedback form and asked to fill in their comments.

Mrs Barrett said: "Along with Alun Michael MP and Cllr Lis Burnet, I have received several calls from residents in the area concerned about the height of the development and how it will impact on Harbour Road in particular.

"The developers are aware of these concerns and it is important that people let them know their views at this stage before plans are submitted.

"I think everyone agrees that the area needs redevelopment - but it is important that the finished product is something that will be an asset rather than an eyesore.

"Cllr Burnet has also spoken to the architect who is aware of residents' concerns.

"People have also expressed concerns about traffic implications and I understand the developers are undertaking a traffic impact study," added Mrs Barrett.

"It will then be up to the council to negotiate with the developers for road improvements and possibly traffic management systems.

"We now have the opportunity to get things right before it is too late - and I hope the developers will listen to the concerns of those who will be affected."

Cllr Liz Burnet said: "If this scheme is managed correctly it will make a major contribution to the regeneration of Penarth.

"There are certain aspects of the scheme that do concern me.

"It is vital that a new traffic management plan for Penarth is put in place before work starts on this development or we are going to be facing gridlock.

"The impact of nearly 500 extra households, plus other developments that are going on, will overload our current traffic system.

"We must also ensure that the project helps meet the authority's social housing requirements and that we deliver as to plan on this."

The PR company representing the developers have set up a website - www.greenissues.com/penarthheights - where residents can see the plans and express their views.

Paul Talbot, Design Executive from Crest Nicholson, said: "We were delighted with the turnout for the exhibition and the degree of interest shown in our proposals.