PLANS to improve an area of Wales’ second largest shopping centre, described as ‘dated and weary’, have been supported.

Torfaen council’s planning committee agreed to remove a disused water garden from Monmouth Square in the Cwmbran Centre.

The application, submitted by M&G Real Estate, also includes proposals for a new café, an events space and a green area as well as the removal of nine trees covered by a protection order.

It forms part of a wider regeneration project at the shopping centre, which also includes modification and improvements to the design of Gwent Square.

Objections were lodged from residents of flats above shops in the square regarding the application, but the meeting heard the infilling of the water garden would help the area meet disability requirements.

Pontnewydd member Cllr Stuart Ashley said the new development in Monmouth Square should reflect the heritage of Cwmbran over the past 50 years.

“It is a useless space, if I am blunt about it,” said the Labour member, referring to the disused water garden.

“There’s quite a lot of public art floating around in Cwmbran – that could be relocated there.”

Cllr Ashley added that although he was pleased that 18 semi-mature trees would replace those lost in the application, he would have preferred a British or Welsh species rather than the American sweetgum tree.

Cllr Huw Bevan was the only member of the planning committee to vote against the application, noting the number of cafes already in Cwmbran town centre.

“It’s the only bit of civic amenity space within the whole of town centre,” said the Conservative member for Llanyrafon East and Ponthir.

“I am absolutely appalled by this application to put another café. There are three within 100 yards of the development.”

He added there was “no way” he could support the plan, as it was, he said, in “direct contravention” of a number of council policies and directives.

Cllr Jason O’Connell from the Greenmeadow ward in Cwmbran described the investment as “long overdue”.

“I’m delighted that MG are investing in our town centre,” said the Independent member.

“Any plan to re-use or re-designate that space into some more usable should be welcomed.”

Twelve members of the committee voted in favour of the plans. There were no abstentions.