Wrexham Cllr Jones Outlines Next Steps After LDP Court Victory

A meeting happened on February 20th at Maesgwyn Hall. Residents got updates about a court ruling. The court sided with Wrexham councillor Marc Jones, who was supported by other councillors in the local development plan case. This case took place in December 2024.

The court threw out a previous review by developers. Wrexham Council and developers won’t challenge this ruling. Councillors stated that pressure is on the Welsh government because the government tried to appeal the court’s decision. The court backed councillors who rejected the plan.

Marc Jones led the meeting, along with Carrie Harper and Mark Pritchard. Jones said they are in a “limbo” state. He explained that in 2023, they had to vote for the plan, adding that they faced threats for voting the “wrong” way.

Jones praised councillors who stood their ground and rejected the local development plan, also known as LDP. He stated the LDP did not meet Wrexham’s needs. Harper said councillors faced police investigation, but they believed they did the right thing.

Harper said the main issue is the LDP’s lack of evidence. She also mentioned the housing needs, emphasizing that many people need affordable places. She added that there is a long social housing waiting list and that the LDP was built without considering this.

Residents agreed on the need for improvements, noting the lack of GP surgeries and infrastructure. Concerns also exist around green spaces. Councillors confirmed 3,000 houses have permission but are unbuilt, and that there are also 1,600 empty properties.

Residents are asked to contact their MS to start talks with the Welsh government. They want to figure out the next steps. Harper said they ask for “sustainability” and hopes their message gets through.

Pritchard stated they want to keep communities intact, saying that overdevelopment is not desirable for them. Jones said they may present a motion to the council to send a clear message. Councillors could then vote freely without fear of legal trouble.

Jones said they want a fit-for-purpose LDP which needs correct infrastructure for homes. He added the election next year creates opportunity, and people should contact their MSs with their opinions. He ensured that they can’t ignore the people.

Wrexham’s MP, Andrew Ranger, asked for a new LDP this week that must consider where housing is built and what type. Infrastructure also needs consideration, Ranger said. He hopes for council and government resolution and wants a plan that benefits Wrexham, and supports community collaboration for the LDP.