A DECISION on controversial plans to build 1,200 homes on green space in Torfaen was put off yesterday over confusion as to whether some councillors should vote.

Six councillors who declared an interest in proposals to build the homes on land west of Cwmbran drive, south Sebastopol, were unable to take part in the debate because they are voluntary members on local bodies such as school boards, which could be affected by the development.

But Pontnewydd councillor Brian Mawby said the rule left councillors unable to represent the interests of their constituents, and callied for the meeting to be deferred to give members the chance to apply to the ethics and standards committee for permission to take part.

He said: “Seeing a number of my colleagues who represent wards close to the development leaving the chamber, not being able to take part demonstrates there is something wrong in our system.

Cllr Richard Clark seconded the motion calling the exclusion rule “farcical” and asked that thematter be taken up with the Welsh Government. The motion was passed by 24 votes to one with two abstentions.

Local campaigners, who packed out the public gallery for the meeting, welcomed the decision.

Linda Delahay, of Pontnewydd, said: “It’s good news for us that there is some hope that we can still fight it. This is a huge issue, we are against the decimation of the green wedge. It’s wrong that they (the local councillors) can’t vote.”

Lilian Roberts, of Croesyceiliog, dubbed the rule “ridiculous” and said campaigners could not believe it had not been questioned before .

Carole Jacob, Torfaen co-ordinator for Friends of the Earth, said local councillors had given massive support to locals fighting the campaign over the last 15 years and yesterday’s decision gave them the opportunity to have their say.

The application by a consortium of developers including Barratt Homes, the Welsh Development Agency, Asbri Planning and Crest Strategic Projects Ltd is a refreshed version of one which was granted permission in 2005 and includes a community centre. It is recommended for approval.