A housing association has unveiled plans for a £3.4 million development of 27 new homes in Llanfairfechan.
Cartrefi Conwy revealed the scheme in Penmaenmawr Road, will support up to 120 jobs and provide a boost to the local economy.
As part of the consultation process, local residents were invited to have a look at the plans at an exhibition at Llanfairfechan Town Hall.
They will be applying for planning permission to build a mix of one, two and three bedroom houses and apartments.
According to David Kelsall, Cartrefi Conwy’s Development and New Business Manager, the proposed development will help regenerate the town.
He emphasised they had a strict policy of ensuring construction industry partners use local trades people, supply chains and offer apprenticeships to local young people.
Mr Kelsall added: “If we get planning permission we would envisage starting construction work in May 2015 and would hope to complete all the properties within 18 months. The land on which the development will be built has previously been subject to consultation prior to inclusion in the Local Development Plan.
“This scheme will support valuable jobs both directly with the trades people on site as well as supporting employment via the ancillary services including the local supply chain. In addition, we will see a number of young people offered apprenticeships within the construction industry.
“There is a strong private rental sector across much of North Wales but in Conwy County Borough there is a distinct lack of affordable rental housing options.
“We have carefully assessed the need for more homes in the area. Llanfairfechan simply does not have enough affordable rented properties available, especially for people wishing to downsize to smaller homes and remain within the town.
“Importantly, five of the properties will be available at an intermediate rent level which equates to approximately 80 percent of the market rent.
“These properties will be aimed at working young professionals who may earn too much to qualify for social housing but insufficient to be able to buy or rent in the private sector.
“There is no legal requirement for us to consult local people before the planning process begins but we appreciate their feedback and are pleased to be able to allay some fears and misconceptions.”
Gwynne Jones, Cartrefi Conwy’s Director of Operations, was pleased so many residents came along.
He said: “We value their feedback and local knowledge, allowing this information to be taken into consideration before final planning application is submitted.
“Cartrefi Conwy isn’t just about the bricks and mortar of building homes but we will be supporting and investing in the local community for the long term.”
If the plans are given the green light, the construction work will be carried out by Conwy-based Beech Developments alongside Brenig Construction.
Llanfairfechan residents Keith Hallowes and Bryan Hughes, who run a B&B adjacent to the site, went to view the plans for themselves.
Mr Hallowes said: “I’m very pleased we have had this early opportunity to see what is planned and to be able to give our views.
“I need to go away now and think carefully about the plans and how they will affect us and the village as a whole.”
Bryan Hughes added; “I now have a clearer view and need to consider carefully the impact on our business and the wider community.”
Mike Roberts, Managing Director of Beech Developments, said: “I am really pleased we are working with Cartrefi Conwy on this development. Like Beech Developments, they are very forward thinking and innovative organisation who are committed to investing and supporting regeneration to communities throughout Conwy”.