PLANS to build four homes in the grounds of an existing property have finally been approved by councillors.
An application for new housing in the grounds of Derllwyn House at Lamb Lane, Ponthir was first made in 2010 before being refreshed in 2018.
Councillors were asked to approve the application in March but said they wanted a site visit which eventually took place last week and meant Torfaen Borough Council’s planning committee could make a decision at its Monday, May 19 meeting.
Lamb Lane resident Alan Tindsley said he was concerned about potential flooding and said the area is impacted by the water table.
He said: “The water table comes to the surface in the area of Lamb Lane. My next door neighbour had a natural fountain about six foot high in her garden. The neighbour opposite had water coming through the floor of their living room.”
Mr Tindsley also said the lane, on the edge of the village, is badly impacted by surface water flooding following heavy rain and urged the committee to reject the application.
He said: “This has been going on for 10 years now and needs to be put to bed once and for all.”
Tim Smale, for applicants VISTA Homes (Wales) Ltd, said the plans comply with the council’s policy as in fill development and would also include improvements including widening of the lane, extending the pavement and creating a “useable” turning head. He also said parking would be provided.
Mr Smale said he “sympathised” with the comments made but the development would control the rate run off water is released, into a drain, which will be agreed with Welsh Water.
Council planning consultant Richard Lewis said since the March meeting the council had received a letter from the nearest neigbouring property, the Mance, supporting the application.
The application was approved unanimously.
