A proposed housing development for St Florence which has seen lengthy objections from the local Community Council, has been withdrawn.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Urban Style Homes Ltd sought permission for a residential development of six dwellings with associated landscaping and access on land next to The Green.

A supporting statement through agent RPC Design & Architecture Ltd says the proposed development of five two-storey four-bed detached properties and an affordable single-storey bungalow includes a new access from High Street and associated landscaping and civil works for a private access road, with each dwelling having private off-road parking for two cars plus garage parking.

St Florence Community Council has “overwhelmingly objected” to the scheme on the grounds including it would lead to “an urbanised street-scene,” parking provision and highways, “there appears to have been little or no consideration given to the needs of local people,” and describes the designs are “repetitive and overpowering in scale”.

A call by local county councillor Cllr Rhys Jordan for the scheme to be decided by councillors rather than planning officers was brought before the county council’s planning delegation panel meeting back in February.

It was recommended a decision on the scheme remain delegated to officers; a report for members outlining a list of criteria where it could be decided by committee, which it said were not met.

Cllr Jordan, in his call, said local residents were “not opposed to development,” recognising “the need for sustainable growth,” but felt this scheme would “harm the character of St Florence and the conservation area,” and the danger of setting a precedent on future developments.

He said local residents felt “let down” by previous planning decisions in the area, adding: “Allowing this application to proceed without public debate would erode trust”.