‘We should have a say on land use’

Mar 26 2008 by Peter Collins, South Wales Echo

THE people of Barry should be asked for their views on the future of land near the town’s cemetery, a campaign group has demanded.

The call for public consultation on how the land on the approach road to Barry Cemetery could be developed follows a lengthy battle to stop plans to build affordable homes on the site.

Campaigners are celebrating victory in their fight to stop development which came after Vale of Glamorgan councillors reversed a previous decision to allow Newydd Housing Association to build 61 houses and flats on land at the side of the approach road.

Vale council planners had recommended approval of the scheme.

Newydd has now lodged an appeal with the National Assembly against the decision to refuse planning permission.

Nick Lanagan, of the Save Cemetery Approach action group, said: “For the past 54 years the people of Barry have been denied access to this open space. We now have a unique opportunity for local people to have a direct input into its future management and development.

“We would like to see a consultation exercise which would seek ideas on how the area could be developed.

“Barry people would have a strong influence on the future of the open space and interested parties should seek a wide range of funding sources to help secure the future of the land.”

Gareth Jones, a member of the action group’s committee, said: “Cemetery Approach has been sadly neglected in recent years.

“The people should be given a voice in its future.

“We want a community action partnership that will preserve and enhance this special open space.”

peter.collins@mediawales.co.uk