A Plaid Cymru Senedd Member has spoken out on behalf of residents whose lives have been blighted for years by a nearby housing development.
Peredur Owen Griffiths raised the issues faced by people living in Cwmgelli Villas near Blackwood.
They say they have faced frequent floodings and even gas cuts as a result of the nearby Cwrt Sirhowy development by Taylor Wimpey Homes.
During Business Questions in the Senedd, Peredur called for greater scrutiny on major developers.
He said: “I raise this (matter) following serious concerns from residents of Cwmgelli Villas near Blackwood, whose lives have been significantly disrupted by the nearby Cwrt Sirhowy development by Taylor Wimpey Homes.
“Over the past six years, residents report repeated flooding and site-water discharge entering their properties as a result of the works, with some facing a near constant battle to keep water out of their homes. The stream receiving the diverted site water is now at far greater flood risk.
“Although a grant was awarded to upgrade the culvert, the temporary attenuation pond was breached earlier this month. Additionally, a mains gas pipe was reportedly struck a few times, allowing water into the system and cutting off gas to 45 homes, an incident, residents say, was not properly reported to the authorities.”
He added: “To add to concerns, the development has grown by around 40 homes, roughly a third more than originally advertised.
“Residents are understandably at the end of their tether, so we need to know what will the Government do to ensure developers cannot simply ride roughshod over our communities and their concerns.”
In response, Business Manager Jane Hutt said she will ensure that the matter is on the agenda when the Housing Minister Jayne Bryant next meets with major housing developers.