A GROUP of Pontypool residents are pulling together to fight plans to build on a valuable green space.

Residents of Brynwern said they received letters from Bron Afon Community Housing that outlines proposals to build on land on their road.

Resident Jessica Waters, 31, said the plans will see two houses built on green space in front of their houses, which are in a circular formation around the site.

She said: “The ground is well used and is a community green space with children playing on it constantly and dog walkers using it.

“It’s a beautiful area that we do not want to lose."

The residents launched a petition against the plans on Sunday and have already collected more than 100 signatures.

Another resident, Andrea O’Brian, believes that Bron Afon should have talked to residents first, adding: “We are determined to do all that we can to stop it".

Gwyn Hackley, 54, who has lived in his property for 15 years, said he finds the plans “gut wrenching”.

He said that his property is one of the closest to the planned houses and said it will cast a shadow over his garden and will be in direct view.

He outlined that the green space has old mining works underneath and is concerned that disturbing the ground may affect the existing houses.

This concern is shared by Tina Francis, 71, who has lived in her property for 36 years.

She added: “There have been previous plans to build on the site which were turned down because of the loss of green space to the community and the old mine workings underneath.”

Torfaen Assembly Member, Lynne Neagle, visited residents to hear their concerns.

She said: “I share their deep concern over these plans - this green space is really important to local people. We also know that it’s within the coal authority’s high risk area and that previous plans to build on the site proved incredibly contentious.”

Ms Neagle said she is also concerned about Bron Afon's approach to consultation, adding: “I feel there has been a lack of proper engagement and I’m keen for them to up their game in this respect.

“Bron Afon were transferred housing stock not entire communities and they need to remember that.”

A spokesman for Bron Afon said that letters were given to residents as they wanted to let residents know that they are applying for planning permission to build two, two bedroom houses on the land that they own.