PLANS to transform the face of Abergaven-ny went on display in the town yesterday.

And the ambitious proposals unveiled by Monmouthshire county council to breathe life into a run-down area of Abergavenny have been greeted with cautious optimism.

Last week the Argus reported on the council's multi-million-pound vision for the Victorian cattle market site.

The plans include a 25,000 sq ft food store, a new library, 31 flats and 262 car-parking spaces for residents and shoppers.

A pedestrian link will be constructed between the cattle market site and Bailey Park.

The council also wants to refurbish the Brewery Yard so that it becomes an important open space in the town.

Planning permission is being sought for the scheme, but in the meantime plans are on display in the One Stop Shop in Abergavenny.

Officers will also be available at a manned display in the council chamber before the end of the month.

David Haswell, chairman of the Abergavenny development forum, said: "This is potentially a good scheme in terms of layout and content, clear evidence that Monmouthshire county council has finally listened to local groups and traders."

He added: "Whereas this proposal is a promising start, a fundamental question remains: under its Best Value obligations, will the local authority have the wisdom as its owners, to select a quality food store provider who will act as a genuine partner in enhancing the town's 'growing reputation as a food destination?'"

Chris Belcham, from the Abergavenny tourist association, said: "The council need to pull their finger out quickly and implement the plans before out-of-town developments get approved and kill off the town.

"What quality foodstore would want to come into the town if an out-of-town Safeway is increased by 60%?"

But Richard Gafney, owner of Vin Sullivan's fishmongers, raised concerns about some of the other redevelopment projects on the cards for the town.

He said: "The cattle market redevelopment is going to go ahead, and we believe it will compliment the town.

"But our major concern is not the cattle market, but Westgate and the Coopers Filters site.

"They may just develop it into a retail park, and that will have a devastating effect on the town."