The introduction of a replacement Local Development Plan (LDP) will be delayed for the time being to allow further work on the phosphate levels in river Teifi.
In January 2021, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) published evidence about phosphate levels for riverine Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) in Wales, including the river Teifi in Ceredigion. An interim planning position statement was then updated in May 2021.
The river Teifi flows through large areas of Ceredigion and the new guidance would significantly impact how these communities would develop during the next LDP period.
During a Council meeting held virtually on 21 October 2021, Ceredigion Councillors agreed to a temporary pause for the replacement LDP to allow essential evidence and data to be gathered and mitigation options to be devised. Without this work, the Council would be unable to consider large parts of the County for new development such as new homes or businesses.
Councillor Rhodri Evans, Ceredigion County Council’s Cabinet Member for the Economy and Regeneration, said: “Ceredigion is known for its rich environmental qualities and is home to several areas and features designated for their environmental importance including the river Teifi Special Areas of Conservation (SAC). Due to circumstances out of our control, we will need to pause the replacement Local Development Plan for the time being to allow time to consider mitigation options in terms of supporting new developments in the area. Our aim is to ensure that we have a development plan going forward that is consistent for the whole of Ceredigion.”
Ceredigion County Council is working with Natural Resources Wales, Dŵr Cymru, Welsh Government and neighbouring Local Authorities to find both national and local solutions to the issue.
Further information is available on our website: Phosphates on the Teifi river SAC.
21/10/2021