DEVELOPERS behind a multi-million pound redevelopment in a Gwent town say building work could start in four months.

The Monmouthshire-based Bird Group is ready to table an outline planning application to build 235 new homes on derelict, overgrown land in Risca, as well as a retirement home, a riverside walk and shops and offices.

Residents said they were "thrilled" with the proposals, describing the area as "appalling" and in desperate need of a revamp.

The Bird Group plans to build on a 17-acre site either side of the River Ebbw.

They plan to put 235 houses on 10 acres between the A467 and the western bank of the river, north of the Pontymister industrial estate, with a further 3.2 acres set aside as open space.

The four acres on the eastern riverbank will hold a retirement home and affordable flats, as well as retail and office space.

A new footbridge will connect the two sides at the north of the site, with a landscaped riverside walk running the length of the development. If Caerphilly council's planning committee approves the application, the Bird Group hopes to start work within four to six months.

Yesterday local people welcomed the plans.

Councillor Keith Griffiths said: "We are thrilled.

It's an appalling area and the company has been trying to get consent to build there for several years.

"It's the start of an even larger development, as we've had quite a number of inquiries from businesses throughout Britain about investing in Risca."

Resident Sue Wiltshire, 49, agreed, saying: "A number of people here feel Risca has been marginalised and that some sort of investment is long overdue.

"This is a start and I hope it keeps going."

Walter Jones, of Bridge Street, said: "At the moment Risca is a bit of an eyesore. We don't get much here and it's about time we had something."

Bird Group managing director Brian Bird said: "Our development will include a riverside walkway from one end of the development to the other, which will open up the river for the residents of Risca to enjoy for the first time.

"I think it will transform it into a wonderful area. "It's a step towards really rejuvenating the town".