Cllr Lis Burnett, Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: “This is a significant investment by the Council and Welsh Government that will provide high-quality short-term housing for those in need, such as refugees from the war in Ukraine.
“The world has watched on in horror as that conflict has developed, with the international community overwhelmingly showing its support for Ukraine. These are non-permanent dwellings intended to accommodate those fleeing persecution and danger.
“Welsh Government has declared Wales a ‘Nation of Sanctuary’, emphasising its desire to help improve the lives of refugees and asylum seekers.
“The Council is committed to that aim and proud that since the start of the war it has made a significant effort to help those in need. Large numbers have been provided short-term Welcome Centre and hotel accommodation, while hundreds of Vale residents have shown immense kindness in opening up their homes to Ukrainian evacuees.
“It is important that there is also provision available until these people move into more permanent housing and this site has been identified as well suited for this purpose.
“A range of alternative locations were considered, owned by both the Council and private individuals, but this was deemed most suitable for a number of reasons. Its size means it can significantly address the accommodation needs of those fleeing the conflict in Ukraine, it already has facilities such as a water supply, drainage and electricity so can be developed quickly, and it is in close proximity to public services and transport.
“These units are not permanent structures so can be moved to another location in the future. The development on Eagleswell Road will be carefully designed, well presented and resemble a traditional housing estate.
“As it is unclear how long the war in Ukraine will last, it is not possible to say for certain how long the accommodation units will be needed. However, they have been built under Permitted Development Rights, meaning the Council would have to submit a detailed planning application for them to remain beyond the short-term. This would follow the same process as any other application and be subject to public consultation.
“The units are built to exacting design standards that surpass traditional levels for quality. The contractor is close to completing the design stage of the project, with the Council providing extensive feedback on landscaping, ecology and drainage. Design images of the development can be viewed on the Council website, while hard images are available by visiting the Llantwit Major Town Council offices.
“The future long-term use of this site is also being discussed amid calls within the community for a new medical centre. Conversations have taken place and will continue with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board over the possibility of utilising part of this site for that purpose.”
The development is expected to be completed before the end of the year and there is potential to make some of the temporary homes available as soon as this summer.
The scheme will be funded through the Council’s Housing Business Plan and financial support from Welsh Government.