TRADERS and shoppers in Blackwood are largely welcoming plans to improve the safety and attractiveness of the town's bus station.

The Argus reported yesterday on the plans to spend £2 million on renovating Blackwood bus station.

The South East Wales Transport Alliance (Sewta) has secured a transport grant to carry out the improvements which include better lighting, an improved CCTV system and a ground-floor caf and waiting room. There will also be a dedicated taxi rank and better information displays for passengers.

Work will begin this September and will take until the summer of next year to complete. It is hoped the redevelopment will help reduce anti-social behaviour in the area.

Phillip Lambert, a member of Blackwood Chamber of Trade, said: "We have to be supportive of any inward investment that would benefit the town. It is self-evident that we would welcome bus station improvements as long as it isn't disruptive to the High Street while works are carried out." Shopper Don Jones, 69, of Marshfield Court, Pontllanfraith, said: "They need to do something with it.

"The bus station should be better covered because it is too cold and I think it is too dangerous for buses to reverse into the bays."

Jonathan Morgan, 35, of Bryn Crescent, Markham, said: "I've got family who catch the buses and it is a very cold spot because it is so open. Something should be done about it. It should also be made safer at night."

Anita Williams, of Prince Andrew Road, Trinant, said: "I think it's a good idea. At the moment the wind blows through the bus stop and I think something should be done about that.

"I think it's a good idea to improve safety and security here because that hasn't been done for years."

But Helen Morgan, 24, of Brynteg Avenue, Pontllanfraith, said: "The bus stop is going to get ruined anyway.

"I won't come here after 6pm because there is so much trouble here. The children smoke, drink and take drugs and spending money on it will not change things."

Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix said: "The bus station is well past its sell-by date. I think the plans will enhance the town and make it a better place for people to come and visit."