PROPOSALS for a £13.5million "beacon of learning" in a Gwent village were given the go-ahead by Caerphilly council planners last night despite angry opposition.

Coleg Gwent's principal Howard Burton told the planning committee the approved revamp for the college's Cross Keys campus was "vital" to bring it into the 21st century.

The project will see a new building in Risca Road using part of the existing college site as well as a former bus station.

The 4,350 sq m building will house a new entrance, learning resource centre, sports hall and performing arts hall.

There would also be office space and a cafe area.

Local resident Richie Young, of Risca Road, slammed the proposal on behalf of local residents.

Speaking to planners last night he said the height of the three-storey development was unacceptable and would obliterate the view of surrounding countryside for residents.

"We don't want to live with a 60 ft building in our back yards," he said.

There have been over 13 letters of objection and a petition with 115 signatures from Waunfawr Gardens and Risca Road flats.

Mr Young said residents did not oppose improvements but wanted the building limited to two storeys.

There are also concerns about the possibility of diesel tanks on the former bus terminal site.

Councillor Michael Gray, Caerphilly council's member for Cross Keys also spoke strongly in support of concerned residents.

The council is still in the process of securing funding from the National Assembly for the project - the first phase of a massive redevelop of the whole of Coleg Gwent over the next 15 years.

It's hoped work, which will include the demolition of two existing buildings on site, can begin next autumn and be completed by the spring of 2010.