**Vale of Glamorgan Council Reveals Revised Blueprint for 500 New Homes in Barry**
In a significant shift from their original proposal, the Vale of Glamorgan Council has outlined plans to deliver approximately 500 new homes across Barry, with a major focus on the town’s north western region adjacent to Porthkerry Country Park. The council’s announcement comes as part of a broader strategy to address an acute need for affordable housing and to keep pace with projected population growth in the area.
Previously, the council had earmarked Argae Lane in the north east of Barry for the construction of 900 homes. However, complications related to land ownership prompted a reassessment, ultimately leading planners to explore alternative locations. After detailed analysis, the Weycock Cross area was identified as a frontrunner due to its convenient access to a variety of essential amenities and public transport options.
Barry is the Vale’s largest urban area, accounting for 41% of the county’s population. Council officials argue that the town’s status as a ‘Key Settlement’ necessitates a strategic allocation of land for new housing. The move coincides with a wider requirement to bolster the availability of affordable homes, reflecting both social and economic pressures in South Wales.
A council spokesperson elaborated that the Weycock Cross site offers proximity to train stations, as well as a range of services such as a major supermarket, local GP surgery, community centre, and education facilities. Within walking distance are three primary schools—catering to English, Welsh, and Church in Wales traditions—and two secondary schools. The accessibility of these services was cited as a compelling reason for choosing this location over others.
Nonetheless, the development is not without challenges. Concerns have been raised about existing congestion at the Weycock Cross roundabout, particularly during peak travel times. In response, the council has pledged to include improvements to road capacity and traffic flow as part of the housing project, aiming to mitigate the impact on both new and existing residents.
The specific breakdown of the proposed housing sites includes up to 376 homes in the Weycock Cross area, with 70 additional homes slated for Hayes Lane, The Bendricks, and a further 40 homes planned for the Barry Waterfront area near the town’s ASDA supermarket. Each site was selected based on a variety of factors including accessibility, local demand, and the feasibility of supporting infrastructure upgrades.
A public consultation on the revised plans is now underway and will remain open until 14 July. The council has encouraged local residents to share their views, emphasising that community feedback will play an influential role in shaping the final proposals. Following the consultation period, the council will publish a comprehensive report detailing the input received and outlining the next steps.
Despite the intended benefits, the proposal has drawn criticism from some political figures. Andrew RT Davies, Member of the Senedd for South Wales Central, described the Weycock Cross element of the plan as “completely unsuitable.” Addressing constituents, Mr Davies attributed much of the local pressure to what he described as “arbitrary housing targets” and raised concerns about potential strains on GP services, dental practices, schools, and transport networks. He reiterated calls for the council and Welsh Government ministers to reconsider the direction of housing policy in the region.
This latest announcement from the Vale of Glamorgan Council underscores the balancing act faced by local authorities: facilitating sustainable growth and meeting housing demand, whilst maintaining quality of life and addressing infrastructural capacities. As the consultation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the community will respond, and how local government will respond to their concerns in its final decision-making.
Residents are invited to take part in the consultation, which promises to play a pivotal role in determining the future landscape of Barry for years to come.