A PLANNING application for the demolition of Thornwell garages has been deferred for discussion at a later date by Monmouthshire County Council (MCC).

The county planning department met yesterday (3rd December) and discussed the proposed plans for the Thornwell development.

The proposal is for the demolition of the existing garages on the site, to be replaced with 19 'affordable' homes. Amongst the 19 homes, there will be a mix of six single bedroom flats, eight two bedroom houses, and five three bedroom houses, each with their own garden and designated parking.

Councillors at the meeting expressed concern that there was little space for parking, and that the green space behind the garages would be lost, as it is currently used for recreational activities.

The site in question is enclosed by houses, with a single vehicular access point off Thornwell road. The land currently consists of 82 garages and the grassed area.

Chepstow Town Council have recommended the proposal for refusal on the basis that the proposed location is inappropriate and is over-development of the area. Chepstow town council also raised concerns over traffic and on-street parking. The council suggested that building would worsen existing sewerage problems.

In a letter to MCC planning, one resident argued that the land could be classed as a village green, stating the site as being: "common ground for the use and benefit of the community.

"Our green has seen parties for the investiture of the Prince of Wales and celebrations of other local and national events. It certainly qualifies by definition of its use over the last 20 years without the need for permission," the resident added.

To view the planning application visit http://www.mon">www.mon

mouthshire.gov.uk/home/planning-and-housing/planning