A HOUSING developer has urged Caerphilly council to reconsider refusing planning permission for 300 new homes in Blackwood.

Persimmon Homes say the planning committee’s decision on the development near Grove Park was “extremely disappointing” and contrary to officer advice.

In a letter to council leader David Poole, managing director Martin Smith said there would be a strong case for appeal if councillors voted to confirm their refusal.

Mr Smith also asked Cllr Poole to meet to discuss the application, but the leader said any meeting would be “inappropriate” whilst the application was being determined.

The committee agreed to defer the application, suggesting reasons for refusal on Thursday, October 18, and members could confirm their objection at a meeting on Wednesday, November 7.

Concerns included an “unacceptable” impact on the highway network and local school, the loss of greenfield land, and the development being outside settlement boundaries.

But Mr Smith disputes each of these, saying the reasons for refusal were either contrary to policies within the council’s local development plan or not based on any evidence.

The letter, which Persimmon Homes say was also circulated to committee members, also refers to officers describing the transport assessment as “robust” and identifying no capacity issues within schools.

“My reason for doing this is to allow you and the members of the committee some time for reflection,” writes Mr Smith. “I do not want to appeal but the strength of our case is significant and plan for all to see.

“I hope that this can be avoided but if it cannot, I will be required to pursue an appeal alongside any associated costs that may be justified.”

The proposed development, according to Mr Smith, represents a £30 million investment in the area. It would create 127 jobs, potentially generate £375,300 in council tax per year and contribute nearly £500,000 to local infrastructure improvements through the Community Infrastructure Levy.

But the letter has been met with criticism from those from Blackwood opposed to the plans, including Councillor Kevin Etheridge.

“I’m disappointed with this strongly worded letter which already refers to an appeal and claiming costs,” said the council’s Independent group leader.

“All we want is some form of compromise because the infrastructure can’t cope.”

More than 500 people signed two separate petitions against development on the 9.72 hectares of land off Beaumaris Way.

Cllr Etheridge added: “The strength of feeling is something that Persimmon Homes should have picked up on.”

Blackwood Independent councillor Andrew Farina-Childs, who also serves as chair of governors at Blackwood Comprehensive, remains sceptical about there being no issue with school capacity or road infrastructure.

“We have 997 children on roll and we’re only allowed to take 1,000, so we can’t take any more unless they change the catchment arrangements,” he said.

“The original traffic impact assessment said there would an increase of traffic of more than 100 per cent near the entrance of the school where hundreds of pupils walk each day.”

Cllr Farina-Childs added: “The letter seems underhanded.  I hope that it doesn’t sway a decision made in good faith.”