Monmouth residents are voicing strong opposition to plans for a new housing development on Dixton Road, close to the A40. They fear the proposal could threaten Monmouth’s environmental landscape, water quality, and already-congested roads.

The Gateway to Wales Action Group, representing a coalition of concerned citizens, has organized a public meeting to rally community support and discuss alternative solutions.

The meeting will take place at Monmouth Baptist Church, Monk Street on Wednesday, November 13, at 6 pm.

The development, which includes 270 homes, is part of Monmouthshire County Council’s Replacement Local Development Plan (RLDP). Despite acknowledging Monmouth’s need for affordable housing, the Gateway to Wales Action Group contends that the Dixton Road site, also known as HA4 Land at Leasbrook, is unsuitable due to its environmental sensitivity and significant infrastructure challenges.

The public now has the opportunity to voice their opinions on the RLDP plans. A consultation period runs from 4th November to 16th December 2024.

Residents are encouraged to submit feedback, express concerns, and suggest alternative solutions through the Monmouthshire County Council website. The Gateway to Wales Action Group is urging all residents to participate, saying, “This is our chance to make our voices heard.”

Residents warn that building on the Dixton Road site would disrupt habitats for the endangered Greater Horseshoe Bats and increase traffic congestion.

The action group also pointed out that the clay-heavy, poorly draining soil on Dixton Road could lead to surface runoff into the river, adding harmful phosphates that would worsen local water quality.

They claim that the plan’s projected addition of 405 vehicles onto the already-busy Dixton Road roundabout estimates this increase would contribute an additional 476 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, raising air pollution levels near Monmouth Comprehensive School.

The Gateway to Wales Action Group argues that the council has overlooked a more suitable alternative site on Wonastow Road, which they say offers better infrastructure and fewer environmental risks. “We believe it should be the right housing, in the right place, with the right infrastructure.”

For more information on the public consultation, residents can visit the Monmouthshire County Council website. https://www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/rldp-consultation-2024/