RESIDENTS who campaigned against the development of nine homes on a community green in Cwmbran were “chuffed to bits” after an appeal against the decision to refuse planning permission was dismissed.

Torfaen council rejected the application from Bron Afon Community Housing for affordable housing on open space near Adit Walk, Pontnewydd, last March.

Councillors said the development would have an ‘adverse effect’ on a space valued by residents, which would also affect the visual amenities of the area.

Richard Todd, of Adit Walk, was overjoyed at the news.

“It’s good news for all of us,” he said.

“Everybody was chuffed to bits.

“They cannot appeal again so they are now going to concentrate on knocking down the Yew Tree pub on the other side of the road.”

Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds has been vocal in his support for the planning committee’s decision and for the residents who stood against the proposals.

He said: “Our green spaces are very important to our communities.

“It is critical that, whilst recognising the need for more housing, that we also make sure that residents’ voices are heard and that the need for amenities is appreciated.

“I welcome the decision that this particular set of houses will not be built at this location.”

Upper Cwmbran ward councillor Steve Evans also assisted the residents in standing against the proposals.

At the Council’s Planning Committee meeting on Tuesday, he said: “Originally officers had recommended this for approval but as members we turned this down.

“The community of Pontnewydd and Upper Cwmbran want to thank those who stood up to be counted in safeguarding this open space for future generations. Common sense prevailed.”

Cllr Evans also accused Bron Afon of not listening to local views and ‘wasting’ time and resources in fighting the appeal.

“The costs could have been of better use for building schemes for people facing homelessness,” he added.

At the time of inspector’s decision, there were 2,544 residents on Torfaen council’s Homeseeker housing register.

Bron Afon have had plans approved to knock down the former Yew Tree pub, replacing it with a two-storey apartment block with eight one-bedroom flats, two detached two-bed houses and one three-bed house.