An application to convert a property in Graigwen into a hostel for homeless 16 to 26 year olds was turned down by RCT Development Control committee in the face of substantial opposition from residents in the area.
The application at The Grange in Tyfica Road was in a residential area close to Coedylan primary School. As well as residents, parents and school Governors, objections came from the nearby Deaf Club.
Fears were raised over possible anti-social behaviour in the area, and drug and alcohol related crime. Members of the Deaf Club said they would be more prone to the effects of any anti-social behaviour as their disability made them more vulnerable.
Welsh Liberal Democrat Councillor Mike Powell said
"There is no doubt that provision is necessary in the Pontypridd area for young people who often through no fault of their own find themselves homeless. It is unfair to paint these youngsters as troublemakers, but the concerns of residents were very real and deserved to be taken into consideration.
"The location of such accommodation is all important. I would also suggest that placing these homeless young people in blocks of this size tends to ghettoize them. Surely they would be better placed in smaller units more immersed in the community.
We have around 3000 empty properties in Rhondda Cynon Taff surrey some of those could be utilised for this purpose. The relevant Officers and Cabinet Member should speak to the developers and homeless charity Adref to look at alternative solutions to this very real problem."