PLANS for a new house on the grounds of a prominent building in Chepstow which neighbours say would be “out of character” was rejected by town councillors last week.

Proposals for a glass-fronted house which would be located near High Trees were first submitted to Monmouthshire council in October.

But Chepstow town council’s planning committee agreed with concerned residents living on Steep Street, High View and Belle View that the plans would not be in keeping with the area on Wednesday.

High Trees was formerly used as a registry office and sold by Monmouthshire council in February 2012 to save money. It was the birthplace of Sir Isambard Owen, the founder of the universities of Wales, Bristol and Newcastle. He was also a nephew of prominent engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel.

Residents said they are concerned their homes would be overlooked but their concerns were not allayed after a presentation at the town council on Wednesday.

Sue Kingdom, of High View, told the Free Press: “In another situation it would probably quite nice - but not in the grounds of a grade II listed Georgian building. It just looks ridiculous.

“We are in a little cul de sac and this monstrous thing would be looking down on us.”

The application is also opposed by other residents because of its “ultra-modern design”, which they fear could draw attention on the hill over Chepstow and away from High Trees.

Cllr Yvonne Havard said of the plans last Wednesday: “I have looked at it and I am not happy with it. It doesn’t really do anything for me having knowledge of the site.”

While Cllr Armand Watts, who was married at the registry office, added: “I was always sad the building was sold in the first place. [The plans are] not in keeping with the area.”

The Chepstow Society secretary Henry Hodges also opposes the plans. He said, in documents seen by the committee, that the proposal would see trees in the grounds removed.

Monmouthshire council officers and councillors on their planning committee will give their verdict on the proposal at a later date.