RESIDENTS in a Pontypool community are being urged to have their say on one of the largest developments planned in the area for a generation.

The 1000 acre former British ironworks site in Talywain is earmarked for a £100 million redevelopment that could see 800 homes built.

Developers Spring are holding a public exhibition to outline their plans next month.

David Morris, planning manager for Spring, said: "This is one of the most important regeneration projects ever undertaken in Torfaen.

"As well as a community asset there will be significant visual improvements to the landscape and overall appearance of the area."

The British site has previously housed a coal mine, iron works and a landfill, leaving much of the land dangerously unstable and contaminated.

Previous applications have failed, and the site is now little more than a barren wasteland.

The planned development will cover 75 acres of the site and, as well as housing, will include two acres of industrial development, a local centre including a small supermarket, and sports pitches.

Grade II listed offices and an engine house will be retained, and could house a new heritage centre.

The developers aim to submit a land reclamation planning application in March, followed by a full development application in May.

Land reclamation would then begin in the autumn, and could take up to two years.

Abersychan councillor Gwyneira Clark said the plans will enhance the entire community.

"At the moment it's just a vast, barren piece of land with so many problems, and it needs to be sorted out," she said.

"I don't think we will ever get a better opportunity to get the British sorted once and for all. This is an asset for the community and borough as a whole."

Councillor Clark urged residents to attend the first public exhibition, which is being held at the OAP Hall on Commercial Road, Talywain, on February 28 and 29.