Eco-village wins approval after decade of controversy

The 10-year-long planning saga over an illegally built eco-development in South West Wales has finally run its course following a decision by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority to approve the scheme.

The planning authority has approved the "roundhouse" at Brithdir Mawr, near Newport, as well as a number of new buildings under its policy on low impact, sustainable development.

The original illegal development, once a derelict farm, was initially spotted by chance from a helicopter in 1997. Subsequently the scheme became the focus of a series of planning wrangles, public inquiries and legal action.

A planning application for the development, part retrospective, has been consented by the authority.  Its decision allows for eight roundhouses along with outbuildings, toilets and workshops.

The buildings will be constructed from straw bales, locally-sourced timber, recycled glass with many of the walls plastered using clay and manure.

The development will have six permanent residents and up to five visitors as well as ten campers and day visitors. Power is generated on-site and water collected locally.

Around three-quarters of the income of the residents are expected to come from music, working the land and craft industries such as wood carving.

Emma Orbach, one of the eco-development residents, said the authority's decision was "a milestone in a free society that a minority of people who wish to live simply on the earth are now being given this opportunity".

Under the terms of the permission the scheme will be reviewed in three years time.

Roger Milne

18 September 2008