A CONTROVERSIAL development to build up to 35 houses in Cwmbran was yesterday approved by Torfaen councillors despite a large number of objections from residents.

Between 30 and 35 homes will be built on the site of the empty John Fielding House, Montressor Two nursery and part of Llantarnam Comprehensive school's playing fields.

The council received 243 letters objecting to the plans, and six people used their third party speaking rights to object at yesterday's meeting of the planning and licensing committee.

Among the concerns raised were worries over traffic problems, the over development of the area and the loss of school playing fields.

Their concerns were backed up by a letter of objection from the Sports Council of Wales, but a letter of support from the headteacher of Llantarnam school, David Bright, and representations from council officers swung the vote to six councillors for and two against.

"Our representatives spoke eloquently and with passion, and yet our pleas were totally ignored by the council," said Alan Smith, chairman of the John Fielding Development Group, who has fought the proposals for several years.

"This is a very sad day. We are extremely disappointed with what has happened today, and the people of Llantarnam will be disappointed, too." Councillors Marlene Thomas and Jack Cunningham, who voted against the plans, warned that it would set a dangerous precedent for other schools in the area who wanted to sell off land for capital receipts.

Councillor Cunningham added: "We seem to have developed the attitude in Cwmbran to build on every blade of grass."

But Torfaen council said the brownfield site should be developed to reflect the need for more affordable housing in the area.

Lyndon Watkins, head of asset management and valuation at Torfaen council, said several other options for the site had been investigated, such as a health centre, retail outlet or care home, but were rejected as not being necessary.

Councillor Aneurin James, who voted in favour, said: "I have not come here today to take a policy to sell off school playing fields.

"It is quite clear the headteacher supports the plan, and I support what he has to say."