Members of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority's development management committee have approved outline plans for residential properties on land off Hounsell Avenue in Manorbier. Members had deferred a decision at their last meeting after listening to the pleas of some of the estate's residents for the application not to be granted. The plans put forward by the Pembrokeshire Housing Association relate to a site which is within the development limits of Skrinkle, and is part of a large grassy verge which runs round the outside of the developed area of the estate. After the last meeting, members of the authority's development management committee went on a site visit to see the area for themselves. At a meeting in Pembroke Dock on Wednesday, they approved outline plans for the development, despite one or two members raising concerns following the site inspection. "Until the site visit, I was all for accepting the proposal, commented Mr. Richard Howells. "However, after viewing the area for myself, I don't think that building on the land is going to enhance the area and in fact would be detrimental to the ambience of the estate." Fellow members, Clrs. Steve Watkins and Robin Evans concurred with his views. "I think the space would be better left as it is; we would be spoiling the character and amenity if we were to grant this proposal," said Clr. Watkins, while Clr. Evans also felt the authority should consider the views of the local people who were against the development. Clr. Mrs. Sue Perkins, though, felt that the desperate need for social housing in the area was reason enough to approve the outline plans. Members voted eight in favour and five against the National Park planning officer's recommendation for outline permission to be granted for the application. Footnote: Following the decision, chairman of Manorbier Community Council, Clr. Tony Wales, said he was "bitterly disappointed" with the outcome. "I'm appalled with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority members; they've totally disregarded the views of the residents of the Skrinkle estate. "A good 98 per cent of the people opposed this application when they carried out a survey and I can't think of one letter of support that the NP Authority has received in favour of the development," he continued. "Surely it's the duty of the authority's members and officers to protect and enhance our National Park, but there seems to be a huge conflict with county councillors roles on the committee when it comes to making decisions on affordable housing developments," added Clr. Wales.
