Political row over Ystrad Mynach Tesco planning costs

Jeff Cuthbert AM has accused Caerphilly County Borough Council of misleading residents of Ystrad Mynach about the expansion of the local Tesco store.

Tesco had applied for planning permission for an extension to its store but was turned down by the council. The supermarket giant has appealed against this decision.

Mr Cuthbert has said he has been told there might be a possibility that Tesco could seek legal costs against residents – sparking fears they may not want to speak out against the supermarket company as part of the planning appeal.

Council leader Lindsay Whittle has said there is no likelihood of this happening but Mr Cuthbert claims residents have been given mixed messages on the issue.

He said: “Naturally this ambiguity has created some confusion and worry. It’s a shame that accurate information was not given to residents first time.

“I hope very much that there’s no real threat to local residents because it’s an important democratic right to protest and lobby without fear of financial penalty.”

Cllr Whittle, Plaid Cymru leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council said: “I sent an email to resident group leaders a while ago stating quite categorically that the authority’s barrister would not be asking residents to contribute to the council’s costs as a result of the appeal by Tesco.

“I have also never heard of an applicant asking for residents to meet part of the costs – that would be a first in Wales, and I’d be hugely surprised if Tesco made that application if they win their appeal.

“Jeff Cuthbert is the one who is causing unnecessary worry. It is the silly season and he is attempting to jump on a bandwagon that does not exist. He is mischief making – perhaps this has more to do with the fact that Jeff Cuthbert is desperately trying to drum up support as there is an Assembly election in nine months time and is concerned about his seat.”