DOZENS of Pontywaun residents protested against a proposed residential development which they say will kill off the character of their village.

One dressed as the Grim Reaper, and others carried banners and balloons as they congregated on the road leading into the village to hold a peaceful protest on Saturday.

Their action comes shortly before a public inquiry into the outline plan begins next week.

Llanover Estates put in an application to renew outline planning permission, that had been previously been granted, for a residential development on the land near Hilary Rise - but the application was turned down by Caerphilly council.

Now the public inquiry is due to begin at the council offices in Pontllanfraith on Tuesday, March 9.

Islwyn AM Irene James joined the protesters to support their action. "The planning application put forward is wholly inappropriate for the area, and I share my constituents' concern," she said.

"Any such development would have a major impact on the environment and character of the village and its infrastructure. The majority of residents in Pontywaun are against the new development."

Resident Lyn Rees added: "The development would mean the sad loss of a beautiful green wedge in Pontywaun.

"It would overlook and spoil the environment of two Grade II listed buildings."

Crosskeys councillor Michael Gray also attended the protest.

"We feel the land should be left as it is, it is often used by youngsters playing," he said.