I WAS shocked to see that an application had been put forward to the council for permission to build nine luxury houses and the demolition of Highlands house, Old Barry Road, Penarth.

This house has a history which must be of interest to the Penarth Historical Society.

It should be a listed building and part of the conservation of Old Penarth. If it was properly advertised, I imagine there would be interest from some of the Penarth (or further afield) millionaires as it is a wonderful building in a great position.

Instead it is to be demolished and nine luxury houses will crowd the site.

Penarth Town Council recently objected to the height of a fence and yet passed a motion proposed by Cllr Gwyn Roberts to say “they had no objection to the development”.

Why not then redevelop St Augustine’s Church or some of the older beautiful houses?

The council should get their priorities right and preserve what is important about Penarth and what makes it unique, which are its beautiful old buildings.

Of what benefit are the nine luxury houses – described as a “very dense” development – except to make massive profits to the developers and further congestion on the link road exit.

I am also sad that some very old large trees had also been cut down.

What power has the council got over our town and its heritage? Once its gone its gone.

I sincerely hope the plan will be thrown out by higher authorities and that councillors will not just accept the destruction of a “magnificent” and “superb” (their words) building and grounds.

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