PLANS to build a low secure mental health unit in a village near Wrexham have successfully been granted on appeal.

Wrexham Council rejected proposals for the 54-bed facility off Mold Road in Gwersyllt in March because politicians felt it would represent an over-intensive use of the site.

However, ASC Real Estate Investments Ltd launched an appeal in September against what they described as ‘prejudiced reasons’ for refusal.

It followed comments made by councillors at the meeting about the suitability of placing it near a school, which led to some being given training by a local mental health charity.

A planning inspector from the Welsh Government has now overturned the authority’s decision and told it to pay costs to the developer.

Outlining his ruling, Clive Nield said: “In the context of the size, nature and location of the site these would be of quite modest scale and would not represent over-intensive development of the site.

“The development would also include security fencing for the low secure unit, which would not appear out of place in the context of the industrial estate and would, in any case, be subject to landscaping measures to soften its appearance.

“Although not clearly expressed in the reason for refusal, members’ concerns appear to have included the level of security of the low secure unit and its compatibility with neighbouring residential areas and schools.

“In view of the secure nature of the unit and the low risk of its patients, I do not consider the proposed use would significantly affect the neighbouring land uses.

“I have taken into account all other matters raised by local residents and their representatives.

“However, I do not consider them to outweigh my conclusions on the main issue above, and I conclude that the appeal should be allowed and that planning permission should be granted subject to a suite of necessary conditions.”

As well as the secure unit, the proposals also include plans for six houses and 24 flats which would be built on part of the former industrial land.

The unit itself would provide care and treatment for people with mental health issues, and include an assessment and treatment unit to provide enhanced therapeutic support.

The inspector has attached a number of conditions to permission being granted covering road access, parking and the provision of affordable housing.