A Llanelli councillor is calling on the leader of Carmarthenshire County Council to rethink plans for Parc Howard and enter into consultation with the public of Llanelli.
County Councillor Rob James who represents the Lliedi Ward has met with Executive Board Member for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Councillor Peter Hughes-Griffiths, to request that the County’s planning applications be withdrawn to allow for sufficient public consultation on the future of Parc Howard.
Carmarthenshire County Council is also being lobbied to reconsider their masterplan for Parc Howard ahead of this week’s Planning Committee that will consider giving permission for the erection of a giant four-mast climbing net and trampoline.
Plans for the development of the 19th century mansion house and grounds over the last year, including the leasing of the bottom floor of the mansion house, the creation of a 59 space car park to be located on the grounds of the park and creation of a new play area did not sit easily with residents who attended a public meeting held in May this year. Councillor James claims that hundreds of local residents and park users have already expressed their dissatisfaction with the proposals.
Speaking to Llanelli Online Cllr Rob James stated, “Hundreds of local resident and users of Parc Howard have now conveyed their objections to the Authority’s plans and I urge this Council to go back to the drawing board.
“Given the public interest in the future of Parc Howard, it is essential that we get this right the first time around.
“Having campaigned across Llanelli for the last eight months, I can honestly say there is no appetite for the proposed ‘space net’ and local residents would rather Council resources be utilised in other areas, including improving the condition of the tennis courts in Parc Howard.
“I hope the Council Leader realises that he does not have the support of the public for this development, pulls the planning application that is scheduled to be considered on Thursday and works with local residents, park users and partners to reach an agreement.”
