A new development on an unviable golf course in Oakdale would give people the chance to own a new-build home close to their families, while also creating more than 150 jobs, the builder behind the scheme has said.
Persimmon Homes is planning to build up to 175 homes on Oakdale Golf Club.
The original application was refused by councillors in March last year. Caerphilly County Borough Council’s planning committee decided not to contest the subsequent appeal, which had been brought on the grounds that the council has withdrawn its latest draft Local Development Plan.
The move to resubmit the application has been criticised by Penmaen councillor Roy Saralis, who has accused Persimmon of “blackmailing” Caerphilly County Borough Council.
But the developer has defended its actions.
Martin Smith, Managing Director for Persimmon Homes East Wales, said: “The withdrawal of the replacement Local Development Plan, and the worsening housing land supply shortfall have prompted us to re-submit the original application.
“We have appealed the decision to refuse the original application, as council officers had recommended approval of our application and there were no objections from statutory consultees.
“We felt it appropriate to re-submit the application in parallel with the appeal as it would enable both the council and Persimmon Homes to negotiate a positive decision ahead of the appeal hearing. This could help avoid a costly and time-consuming process for both parties.
“It is on this basis that we have undertaken a pre-application consultation ahead of a re-submission this spring.”
Mr Smith said the development would provide much-needed homes on an area of land which would otherwise fall into disrepair, create more than 150 jobs and generate money for the council.
Under the plans, a total of up to 175 homes would be built on land at Oakdale Golf Course, representing a total investment by Persimmon of over £17 million.
The developer has said the golf course and driving range are no longer viable and the land would rapidly deteriorate if left undeveloped.
It has claimed a total of 67 construction jobs would be created each year over a three-year construction period, as well as 102 indirect jobs.
Mr Smith added: “These new two, three and four-bedroom homes will help local people and their families settle in Oakdale.
“The properties will be attainable both on the open market and through affordable housing mechanisms ensuring that future generations can afford to live in their home village alongside their family.”