IT COULD be third time lucky for a controversial eco-friendly housing development in Penarth, that has twice been rejected by Vale Council planners.

Newydd Housing Association’s plan to construct four, three-storey homes on land previously occupied by St Luke's Church in Elfed Avenue caused outrage among local residents, who labelled the design of the buildings a ‘monstrosity’.

Neighbours of the site were also concerned about the height of the development, and feared their privacy would be affected.

The orginal scheme was rejected 12 months ago and despite a public exhibition of revised plans - that included a slightly lower level design - a second bid was given the thumbs-down in September.

That prompted Newydd to appeal and a hearing with the Planning Inspectorate for Wales took place last week at the Dock Offices in Barry, followed by a site visit that was attended by residents and local councillors.

Maria Pilcher, whose St Cyres Road home overlooks the site, said: “Newydd have been very good at keeping us informed but there is a general concern that if the plan is accepted, the buildings will still be too tall.

“We’re all worried about privacy.”

The low carbon development is one of a small number of pilot projects throughout Wales that are being supported by the Welsh Assembly Government.

A decision over the planning appeal is expected in the next four weeks.

Simon Morris, Property Director at Newydd Housing Association, said: “Newydd's proposals have not changed since the second planning refusal and it is these plans that are being appealed.

“We are likely to hear the outcome of the appeal by the end of March. “Subject to that appeal decision we will decide on the next course of action.”