A CONSULTATION is underway into a housing association’s proposal to build 32 flats in Barry town centre.

Nearby residents were sent information regarding Hafod Housing Association plans for flats to be built in Provincial House, in Holton Road, at the end of December.

Letters were sent to residents of Lower Buttrills Road and Kendrick Road in a letter from agents, White Young Green, on behalf of Hafod Housing.

The proposal involves turning the current office block, which was leased by the Vale council until the summer, into housing, including 23 one-bed apartments and nine two-bed.

Under recently introduced law, all developments of more than 10 housing units have to hold a consultation with local residents before the plans are submitted to the local planning authority.

Buttrills ward Vale and town councillor Ian Johnson said that while the consultation with residents was good - allowing them to point out errors and have a say on plans - the consultation’s timing, due to finish in mid-January, was unhelpful.

He said: “What use is sending a letter to residents a few days before Christmas when there is nobody available at the agents’ offices to answer the many questions that residents have?

“Thirty-two flats in an already built-up area would bring a lot of challenges, including parking, noise and waste collection.

“A change in use from offices to residential housing means a change in the times when the street and surrounding area is used.

“Some residents will have lots of flats overlooking their back gardens at all times of day and night.”

Hafod Housing Association currently own and manage 700 homes in the county.

Managing director, Alan Morgan said confirmed the consultation.

He said: “The scheme will provide much-needed affordable homes in the town centre for local people, and will also help to boost the local economy and provide jobs.”

Hafod has invested over £13m and provided over 100 new homes in the Vale in the past two years. This includes the Vale’s first extra care scheme, Golau Caredig in Barry and homes for affordable rent and low-cost home ownership.”