COUNCILLORS have visited the site of a former hotel that could be knocked down to make way for a residential facility for people with disabilities and learning difficulties and for elderly residents.

Somerton House in Llantarnam Road, Cwmbran, was previously used as a hotel and latterly was turned into a house in multiple occupation comprising 15 flats.

Torfaen councillors were due to have made a decision on the plans last month but decided to visit the site on July 30 and are now expected to make a decision tomorrow.

Developers Green Hill Construction Ltd submitted an application to replace the former hotel with a new three-storey building for people with disabilities, autism and elderly residents.

The company collapsed into administration earlier this year but new planning agents have been appointed on behalf of Green Hill Construction to progress the application, Torfaen council said in a planning report.

Torfaen planning department has recommended that the new development be approved subject to a section 106 agreement, meaning the developer would make a financial contribution for potential recreational facilities in the area.

The new development would feature four flats for people with autism, four for people with learning difficulties, another four for disabled residents and four for residents aged 55 and over who have care requirements.

The development would also comprise 16 parking spaces including four disabled bays.

A few residents voiced concerns about the potential scale and appearance of the development when Torfaen council consulted the public on the plans.

However, the planning report states that the facility would be partially screened from the nearby dual carriageway by new planting.

In addition, the building would feature bay windows and red brick materials similar to those used on nearby dwellings making it appropriate for the site, the report explains.

Carers could use parking spaces at the facility and an ambulance turning area could also be provided.

Councillors are to examine the plans again at Pontypool Civic Centre in a meeting at 4pm on August 12.