Work to begin on 31 affordable homes in Pontlliw despite local opposition

The scheme, led by Pobl Group and delivered by Willis Construction, will provide a mix of houses, bungalows and apartments for social rent on land off Clordir Road, a site currently designated as countryside under the Swansea Local Development Plan. The development was approved under an exception policy for 100% affordable housing.

“We’re proud to have been selected by Pobl to deliver this important scheme,” said Rhys Ford, Director at Willis Construction. “Our focus will be on delivering high-quality homes while working openly and respectfully with the local community throughout the build.”

A divided village

The project has faced strong resistance from residents and community groups. Two petitions with over 500 signatures and 73 formal objection letters were submitted to the council, citing concerns about pedestrian safety, traffic congestion, and pressure on local services.

Pontlliw and Tircoed councillor Victoria Holland said the village’s schools were already full and public transport was limited. She told the planning committee:

“We are not against affordable housing in Pontlliw—we are just against it in that area.”

The development will include an uncontrolled pedestrian crossing near its entrance, prompting concerns about visibility and road safety. A planning officer acknowledged the fears but said the crossing met safety standards and that no personal injury accidents had been recorded on Clordir Road in the past five years.

Meeting urgent housing need

Despite objections, councillors voted 7 to 4 in favour of the application, citing the acute shortage of affordable housing in Swansea. A report before the committee noted that 268 people on the council’s housing waiting list had named Pontlliw as a preferred location.

Planning agent Rob Davies, speaking on behalf of Pobl Group, said:

“Demand for housing is extremely high in all parts of Swansea, including Pontlliw. Affordable house-building targets have been missed for four consecutive years. Sites such as this are vital to meet that need.”

The development will be 100% social rented tenure and managed by Pobl Group. The scheme includes contributions of £75,500 and £92,288 to increase capacity at Pontlliw Primary and Pontarddulais Comprehensive School, and £6,000 towards transport and highways improvements.

Artist’s impression of Pobl’s development on Clodir Road in Pontlliw
(Image: The Urbanists / Asbri Planning / Pobl)

Community engagement and next steps

Pobl and Willis Construction say they will work closely with Swansea Council and the local community to ensure the project delivers maximum social value. Plans include support for local schools, community groups, and employment initiatives, with a commitment to using local labour and suppliers wherever possible.

“We are delighted to receive full planning permission for our proposed scheme at Clordir Road,” said Amy Malone, Project Manager at Pobl Group. “It will provide 31 much-needed quality affordable homes for social rent, for Pontlliw.”

The development forms part of Pobl’s wider programme to deliver affordable homes across South Wales, with a focus on energy efficiency, community integration, and long-term tenancy support.

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