Residents of a Welsh seaside town have revolted against plans for an affordable homes scheme amid fears they could be swarmed by “people from Birmingham”.
New Quay, Ceredigon – home to just over 1,000 people – was crowned Britain’s best seaside destination last year.
However, locals fear the proposed housing scheme could fundamentally alter the area’s character.
Some opponents have expressed concerns that urban residents from Birmingham, located roughly 140 miles away, might relocate to the scenic Welsh coastline.
Newcomers could introduce antisocial behaviour typically linked to larger cities, critics have warned.
Housing association Barcud submitted proposals to Ceredigion Council for a £7.5million development described as entirely affordable housing.
The scheme would be constructed on the town’s Central Car Park.
Estimates suggest the 30 properties could bring up to 98 additional permanent residents to New Quay.
New Quay, Ceredigon – home to just over 1,000 people – was crowned Britain’s best seaside destination last year
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WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Currently, second homes and holiday lets account for 26 per cent of all dwellings in the town.
The council’s planning portal was inundated with objections from concerned locals.
One submission reportedly argued that families “coming from Birmingham” could arrive if the project received approval.
A GoFundMe campaign has attracted dozens of contributors, with more than £6,000 raised for the cause so far.
A GoFundMe campaign has attracted dozens of contributors, with more than £6,000 raised
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GOFUNDME
The town council has also opposed the development, arguing that eliminating parking spaces would harm local businesses.
Tourism forms a crucial part of New Quay’s economy.
The New Quay Traders Association lodged what it described as “significant economic objections” to the proposal.
Despite recommendations for approval from the council’s planning and highways departments, councillors ultimately rejected the application.
Ceredigion County councillors ultimately rejected the application
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The GoFundMe page read: “Many people were told it was a done deal. The community did not accept that.
“Residents, businesses and supporters came together, gave up their time and made clear what the car park actually means to New Quay.”
Barcud has now lodged an appeal with Planning and Environment Decisions Wales.
The fundraising campaign criticised this move, saying: “Once again, public money, our money, is being used to pay lawyers and consultants to try to overturn a democratic decision.”
New Quay defeated competitors including North Berwick in Scotland and Robin Hood’s Bay in Yorkshire to claim the top seaside town title last year.
Holiday Car, which presented the award, praised the town’s Victorian terraced houses cascading towards the main sandy beach.
The company noted New Quay offers “a happy medium for those who seek relaxation but not isolation.”