GILWERN residents have raised objections to a planning application to build 92 residential units and a new road on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

The application at Cae Meldon in Gilwern, which is pending a decision by planning committee members, was the subject of a letter written by David Davies MP for Monmouth, to the director of planning within the national park authority.

The MP wrote: “You will be aware from our recent meeting that there is widespread concern amongst Gilwern villagers that the proposed development at Cae Meldon is inappropriate for the village and will put further strain on already struggling infrastructure and services.

“They have asked me to represent these concerns to you.”

Concerns put to the park authority included that although the application had been downsized, it was only by three units; the nearest school, Gilwern, only has three places available; the doctor’s surgery cannot cope with present demand; lack of public transport; lack of shopping facilities; and the need for extra police.

“There is already low gas and water pressure in the area and extremely poor mobile and television signals,” said the MP’s letter which described “strong objections” made by the community council as well as both Gilwern county councillors, Giles Howard and Simon Howarth.

“The additional lighting from the large site will light up the whole valley from Crickhowell,” said Mr Davies MP, citing the park’s dark sky status. Gilwern resident David Ahern said “This proposed development would appear to contravene the development plan policy in every essential area.”

David James, rural housing enabler for Monmouthshire attended a Llanelly Community Council meeting in May about affordable housing.

“What people cannot understand is why local opinions have not been sought and those that have contributed have not been considered.”

A park spokeswoman said they cannot comment on live applications.