A £400,000 watersports centre at a Gwent reservoir was given the go-ahead, despite concerns that it will disrupt the environment and tranquility of the area The centre at Llandegfedd Reservoir, in Coed y Paen, near New Inn, says will create jobs and boost tourism, according to the developer
Although small-scale sailing, angling and windsurfing are already allowed there, Llandegfedd Watersports Centre Limited want to encourage more people to take part in these watersports, and develop opportunities for canoeing, rowing and diving.
Yesterday, Monmouthshire planning committee approved plans from Llandegfedd Watersports Centre Limited, a company formed by volunteers who already use the reservoir, which covers an area of 434 acres.
The designs submitted by Boyce Rees Architects would see existing facilities replaced by a three-storey clubhouse, featuring changing rooms, seating area and galley, and a bar.
Councillor Val Smith said it would create a "wonderful opportunity for young people to take part in healthy outdoor activities".
Llandegfedd is already visited by about 250,000 people every year.
But objections were raised at the meeting in County Hall, Cwmbran, about the potential threat to wildlife - particularly birds.
Julian Branscombe, Gwent Wildlife Trust's chief executive, said he was "disappointed".
The trust submitted a six-page letter warning of the negative impact on the reservoir's wildlife habitat.
Mr Branscombe said the reservoir was a designated site of special scientific interest (SSSI), and the plan would contradict Monmouthshire council's Unitary Development Plan (UDP) which promises to prevent "inappropriate development".
Other key species visiting the reservoir include osprey, little and black terns, and rare gulls.
The reservoir, which is home to both rainbow and brown trout, is surrounded by forests inhabited by marsh tits and a variety of woodland species.
Chairman of Llangybi Fawr community council, John Love, warned the centre would lead to traffic congestion in the village of Coed y Paen, as well as more anti-social behaviour, noise and litter.
Coed y Paen Residents Association objected on a number of grounds, including potential light pollution, noise, and speeding traffic.
First published in the South Wales Argus|