PLANS for a new retail and leisure complex at Abergavenny's cattle market site could be rejected, according to the council's head of planning.

The scheme drawn up by developer Henry Boot for an Asda supermarket, two retail stores, cinema, library and flats was heavily criticised by members of Abergavenny Chamber of Trade, who said it was "monstrous", while more than 1,100 people signed a petition against it.

Now George Ashworth, the head of planning at Monmouthshire county council, says the proposals could be turned down.

Complaints against the scheme include the design and the 60/40 split proposed for the Asda store, which means it would sell items other than food.

A campaign, Save Our Market Town, has been set up by traders, councillors and farmers who are worried that a new Asda store would affect trade.

Mr Ashworth told a chamber of trade meeting: "I have a nasty feeling elected members will want a more traditional design. We don't want something all the community hates."

He added the scheme would not be profitable for the council because of the inclusion of a cinema.

Trader John Bannon said: "The vast majority think this scheme is an eyesore, and we don't want another one like the post office."

The main aim of the Save Our Market Town campaign is to urge all those who oppose the scheme to write to Mr Ashworth and object against it.

The 1,100 signatures were collected after campaigners twice lobbied for support in the town centre.

Richard Gafney, vice president of the Chamber of Trade, said: "The majority of people do not want Asda. The design is monstrous and is not in keeping with the town, even people from out of Abergavenny agreed."

The Asda store would be the smallest in Wales.

A spokeswoman for Asda Stores Ltd said: "Large numbers of people travel out of Abergavenny to do their shopping. Our new store would make sure people can stay here to shop and that will give all retailers in Abergavenny a chance to increase their trade. It should bring more shoppers to the town."

The plans have also come under fire by the Design Commission for Wales.

Carole-Anne Davies, its chief executive, said: "Unfortunately we cannot offer wholehearted support for the current proposals due to significant concerns relating to the overall design and would advocate a major re-design at this stage."