Council defends 770-home plan on farmland
Monmouthshire County Council has defended a proposal to build up to 770 homes on farmland near Crick, arguing that the need for affordable housing outweighs concerns about losing agricultural land. The plan is the largest part of the council’s local development strategy and has faced questions from inspectors and a major housebuilder.
What is proposed and why
The council is backing a plan to develop up to 770 homes on farmland around Crick, near Caldicot and Portskewett. It says the project is part of a broader affordable housing strategy and that the site was chosen for its proximity to Caldicot rail services and a lack of suitable brownfield land.
Key facts and questions raised
The proposal forms the largest of four strategic housing locations in the local development plan. An online public examination hearing discussed a related pre‑application for 400 homes and a new primary school on a council‑owned site at Bradbury Road. An independent inspector asked why this farmland site was chosen, noting concerns about land use and planning assessments.
Who is affected
The residents of Monmouthshire, particularly those living near Crick, Caldicot, and Portskewett, could see changes in local housing supply and public services. Local landowners and the major housebuilder involved in the plan are also affected, as are users of the equestrian centre and surrounding farmland used for agriculture.
Practical next steps
Officials will continue to answer inspector questions and respond to objections during the examination process. The council may publish further details on site layouts, transport considerations, and how affordable housing will be allocated. Residents can follow updates from the council and attend future public examinations to hear how the plan evolves.
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