CONTROVERSIAL plans to build homes on land in Blackwood are expected to be approved, despite concerns about the impact of the development.

Caerphilly council’s planning committee will discuss a planning application from Pobl Group to build seven homes on land at the back of Coronation Road and Gordon Road next week.

The committee have been recommended to approve the plans, despite 17 objection letters and a petition signed by 38 people voicing concerns over the potential impact of the development.

The land has recently been linked with anti-social behaviour and used for fly-tipping, according to a council report.

Concerns have been voiced over traffic issues and a potential loss of community space.

Blackwood Town Council has also objected and raised concern the highway network serving the site is ‘inadequate.’

Residents also expressed worries about noise impact, drainage issues, flooding and ‘danger’ to pedestrians using a lane.

The planning application seeks permission to redevelop the land for seven homes, with five two-storey homes and two one-bedroom flats.

Two of the proposed homes fall into the affordable housing category.

The development also includes introducing a one-way system along a lane serving the site, which will require a separate traffic order application.

A council report states that although the development will increase traffic, highway safety will be improved by the creation of the one-way system.

Recommending for the committee to grant permission, the report states: “The application represents a good opportunity to provide seven new properties within the settlement boundary in a highly sustainable location.

“The application site is currently underused and reportedly linked with anti-social behaviour during the evening hours and also used for fly tipping.”

The proposed site is located within walking distance of the town centre and the bus station in Blackwood.

It also meets the requirements of Caerphilly County Borough Council’s local development plan and planning guidance.

Caerphilly council’s planning committee will consider the application at a meeting next Wednesday, June 20.