Phosphate affecting Affordable Housing developments

Residential development in the Wye and Usk valley area is currently restricted due to the heightened presence of phosphate in the River Wye and Usk Special Areas of Conservation (SACs).

The entire river Wye is designated as an SSSI and is the largest SAC river in Wales. The river supports various species of plants and animals such as Atlantic salmon and white-clawed crayfish. The catchment areas of the River Wye and Usk cover most of south-east Powys including part of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

This means that we are currently unable to progress affordable housing developments within these catchment areas until we receive clear guidance from the Planning Authority. Further updates from the Housing Development Team will be provided here.

The Housing Development Team have identified land in the south Powys area that may be developed in future, provided there is a housing need and subject to approval.

More information regarding phosphate can be found on Natural Resources Wales' website: https://naturalresources.wales/guidance-and-advice/business-sectors/planning-and-development/our-role-in-planning-and-development/phosphorus-limits-on-environmental-permits-for-waste-water-treatment-work-discharges/?lang=en