Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has given delegated approval to grant permission for 72 new homes in Saundersfoot.

Support was given for the development proposed by Persimmon Homes West Wales at a meeting of the Authority’s development management committee on July 17.

Approval for the scheme on a 2.26 hectare area of land adjoining the northernmost houses of the long-established Sandy Hill Park residential estate, will now be subject to finalisation of the s106 agreement, with final determination by the Authority’s officers.

The ‘zero-carbon’ ready scheme will include a mix of quality new detached, semi-detached, terraced houses, and apartments, ranging from one to four bedrooms, which will help meet local housing needs and open the door to home ownership for more local families. The properties will be finished in render and stone.

Boasting a number of proposed community benefits, the development will bring a range of facilities to the local community, including a new Local Equipped Area of Play (LEAP) at the heart of the site, contributions to highway and active travel upgrades, and a dedicated active travel link that connects the site back to Sandy Hill Road.

The design also incorporates a sustainable drainage system with bio-retention areas and rain gardens, green technologies such as air-source heat pumps, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging points, as well as ecological enhancements to mitigate impacts on dormouse habitats and preserve existing trees and hedgerows.

As part of the housebuilder’s community contribution, Persimmon will also transfer 35 per cent of the homes (25 in total) to a local housing provider for rent and shared ownership to help alleviate pressure on Pembrokeshire’s housing list.

Welcoming the planning approval, Persimmon Homes West Wales’ Managing Director, Stuart Phillips, said: “We’re delighted to have secured support for our new development of 72 high-quality homes in Saundersfoot.

“Throughout the planning process, we have worked closely with officers and stakeholders to ensure that our homes are in keeping with – and enhance – the local area and its surroundings. I’d like to thank officers and the project team for their collaborative efforts during this process.”