PREPARATIONS are under way for a peaceful protest against proposals to build a new prison in Cwmbran.

Torfaen county councillors Elizabeth Haynes and Catherine Lewis are heading up a residents group and organising the protest outside the former police training college on Greenmeadow Way.

The Ministry of Justice has earmarked the 39-acre site as one of four potential locations for a new closed Welsh prison for up to 1,500 prisoners.

Last week's announcement has outraged residents and councillors alike, and mor ethan 200 people attended a public meeting about the proposal. Many people say the site is in aresidential area close to schools and OAP homes and is unsuitable for a new jail.

Councillor Lewis said: “We feel that evidence is indicating that Cwmbran is a strong contender for a prison. We will not sit back. We will not let this happen without a fight.

“The people of Greenmeadow and St Dials voted us in to work for them, to be the people’s voice. This is what we intend to do by being active and demonstrating our support against the prison.”

Councillor Haynes hopes the protest will send a message to those behind the prosposals that they face a fight from local people.

She said: “We have less than three months to fight this and we hope all residents will show their opposition by supporting our protest. “ Councillor Haynes added talks were taking place over weekend to put the final touches to plans and a date for the peaceful protest will be announced on Tuesday.

Anyone who wants to join the protest should contact Councillor Haynes on 01633 870119 or Councillor Lewis on 01633 766557.