Parish Councillor Under Fire After Backing Controversial Housing Development in Cynwyl Elfed

Tensions have erupted in the rural village of Cynwyl Elfed after local parish councillor Elfed Davies stood alone in support of a hotly opposed housing development, defying the wishes of an overwhelming majority of the community and raising questions of potential conflicts of interest.

During a heated council meeting, Cllr Elfed Davies was the only member to vote in favour of the construction of 31 new homes in the flood-stricken village. The proposal has drawn fierce opposition from 68% of residents, according to informal canvassing conducted by fellow councillor Brian Davies. He said that 7% expressed support while 25% did not respond.

Cllr Elfed Davies, who does not reside in Cynwyl Elfed, reportedly became visibly agitated when the subject of conflicts of interest arose during the meeting. He revealed he had received a letter questioning his impartiality and stated that the issue had been passed to his solicitor.

Two local residents had earlier queried whether any councillors had links to structural surveys conducted on the site. Although Cllr Davies’ brother, Cllr Bryan Davies, was also referenced in connection with his role on the housing committee of Carmarthenshire County Council, the parish clerk stated there was “nothing to answer for” in his case.

At the meeting, Cllr Bryan Davies demanded to know who had sent the letter of complaint. The clerk and Chair informed him that it had gone through due legal process via the County Council and that they were unable to provide that information. Cllr Davies said he would be submitting a Freedom of Information Act request.

Flood Risk Concerns Heightened by Recent Devastation

Residents’ fears about increased flood risk were exacerbated by severe flooding on November 5th, which devastated the village. Rising water levels from two rivers and runoff from nearby roads engulfed homes, submerged vehicles, and forced businesses to close.

Many villagers are particularly alarmed by the development’s proposed lagoon feature, which they argue could become a catastrophic liability if not properly maintained. Questions have been raised over who would bear the responsibility for insuring and maintaining the lagoon over the next 30 years.

One resident claimed slurry had run through the village graveyard and into family graves, a claim denied by Cllr Elfed Davies.

Councillors and Residents United in Opposition

Despite Cllr Elfed Davies’ lone support, other councillors voiced deep concerns about the development:

• Cllr Julian Evans reported that “numerous” constituents had voiced strong opposition.

• Cllr Robin Bowen highlighted the potential for river pollution.

• Cllr Eifion Jones stated the scheme conflicted with Carmarthenshire’s Local Development Plan (LDP).

Objections registered by residents include:

• Flood risk

• Non-compliance with LDP policy

• No demonstrated local need for housing

• Negative impact on Welsh language and culture

• Village character degradation

• Traffic congestion and air pollution

Following the meeting, some residents expressed disbelief at Cllr Elfed Davies’ stance, with two calling for his resignation on the grounds that he does not represent the will of the community. When asked, the residents who did not wish to be named said they would be emailing the clerk to request that Cllr Elfed Davies resigns.

Residents Elizabeth Evans and Angharad Evans said that they were ‘shocked’ that a local councillor could go ‘against the wishes of the majority of the village’ given the ‘depth of concerns’ and the fact that so many people had ‘suffered during the recent floods’.

Angharad Evans said: “I do think Cllr Davies needs to reassess his role as Parish Councillor.”

Cllr Elfed Davies has been contacted for comments over the allegations of conflict of interest.

Planning Policy and Legal Implications in Wales

Under Planning Policy Wales (Edition 11) and TAN 15 (Technical Advice Note on Flood Risk), developments must avoid areas prone to flooding unless justified by a demonstrated need and adequate mitigation.

The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 also obliges decision-makers to act sustainably in the interests of local communities.

Moreover, conflict of interest rules, as outlined in the Local Government Act 2000 and the Members’ Code of Conduct, require councillors to declare any personal interest that could reasonably be perceived to affect their judgement. Any failure to disclose such interests can be referred to the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales.

The planning application will now be escalated to Carmarthenshire County Council’s Planning Committee, where legal objections and community concerns will be further scrutinised.

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