Madam,

I read with interest the article concerning the proposed sale of the former primary school in Aberdyfi for half its market value to a housing association.

Firstly, I would like to support the need for affordable housing schemes particularly in the Aberdyfi area. I do question however the inability of the scheme to be economically viable based on a market value of £320,000 for what might deliver 11 affordable plots.

Having read the agenda for the proposed Cabinet meeting on 8 May, I was surprised that no supporting information appears to be provided to members to consider the case of financial viability. It merely states the District Valuer has confirmed a figure or £187,000 for 100 per cent affordable housing and that the housing association has confirmed it would be financially viable at that level.

Given that housing associations have a greater focus on social projects, I would expect there to be a greater margin available to an association to provide what will be rented accommodation as opposed to onward sale.

I would expect members to challenge the issue of viability and the role of the housing association in order to arrive at a mutually acceptable land value, if the disposal of the land is to be negotiated in such a selective manner.

I say all this in the context of another story contained within the same edition of your paper, and that is the cutting of £270,000 funding for young farmer groups and youth clubs throughout Gwynedd.

Yours etc,

Spencer Pughe, chartered building surveyor and architectural consultant, Spencer Pughe Associates, Faenol Isaf, Tywyn.

Have your say on the local issues affecting you - email [email protected] or join in the conversation on our Facebook page