Plan to build shops on pub site is approved

PART of a Valleys pub will be knocked down to make way for a Greggs and a convenience store, under controversial plans.

The New Forge pub in Oakdale will be partly knocked down, with an extension built before the building is split between a Co-op and the bakery chain.

The Co-op will close its existing store in Oakdale village centre to move to the new location. It says the existing store is too small to stock a full range of products and no longer meets commercial needs.

Caerphilly councillors heard the development is expected to create 26 jobs, 16 at the Co-op and 10 at Greggs.

However, there was some opposition to the plans, with 139 letters of objection gathering 291 signatures submitted to the council.

Concerns were expressed over the loss of the Co-op to Oakdale village.

But a condition of the application is for a section 106 contribution to improve two bus stops near the development which is aimed at making access easier.

Worries were also voiced about the impact of delivery vehicles entering and leaving the site.

Resident Alexander Shepherd spoke in opposition to the plans for the Brynhoward Terrace property at a planning committee meeting.

Mr Shepherd claimed there was not adequate parking provision for the development and said there was “proof” that 900 objections had been lodged.

But planning officer Chris Boardman disputed both claims.

Mr Shepherd also raised concerns about the impact of the development on road safety.

He said: “There is a speed camera where the new bus stop is going to be.

“The fact there is a speed camera there shows there is a highways issue.”

A speaker on behalf of the applicant said The New Forge pub has “no restriction” on opening hours.

He said the development would therefore result in less disruption to residents in the area. He also said the owner of the pub had decided to sell as he was struggling to keep it open.

Councillor Mike Davies said he also had concerns about road safety.

“If we are minded to approve I would wish to keep an eye on this one,” he said.

Councillors voted to approve the plans with several conditions including that Greggs cannot have an outdoor seating area and restrictions on delivery hours.