COUNCILLORS have unanimously approved plans for an affordable housing development on a former school site in Cwmbran.

An application submitted on behalf of Melin Homes to build 17 houses and demolish the former buildings of Blenheim Road Community Primary School, which has since been relocated, was approved by Torfaen council's planning committee on Tuesday.

A mixture of flats and homes would be built on the site, with all of the properties defined as affordable housing.

Eight of the homes would be one-bedroom, seven would be two-bed and there would be two, three-bedroom homes.

An equipped play area also forms part of the plans.

Cllr Alan Slade said he was 'thrilled' that the play area was included in the development and asked whether it could later be expanded if more funding became available.

Sarah Hensby, from the council's planning team, said the play area had been included due to an "under provision in the area" and that if further funding became available it could be expanded.

Concerns the designs of the development could encourage anti-social behaviour were also assuaged by Ms Hensby, who said a public right of way through the development would help combat any potential for the issue.

A total of 32 car parking spaces will also come with the development.

A design and access statement says the site is located close to bus services, a restaurant and bar, community education centre and two schools.

"The site is comprised of previously developed land within the settlement boundary," the statement says.

"The redevelopment of which would result in an under used parcel of land being brought back into beneficial use, for affordable residential purposes.

"As such, it is considered that the principle of developing the site for residential development is firmly established."

The "quality development" is planned to be in-keeping with the surrounding area, ensuring there is no detrimental impact on the closely located Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation.

Privacy of existing and future residents has also been considered in the designs.

The design and access statement adds: "The appearance of the proposal is considered to bring a modern and contemporary look to the residential development."

Blenheim Road Community Primary School opened in its new location directly south of its previous location in 2016.

The relocation was funded as part of Torfaen council's 21st Century Schools Programme, working with the Welsh Government.

Designs were changed to address concerns over 'insufficient' parking after pre-application advice.