A DECISION on controversial plans to convert a Caerleon pub into a convenience store was deferred yesterday for councillors to make a site visit.

Members of the council’s planning committee shared hundreds of residents’ concerns that proposals to turn the Angel Hotel into a Sainsbury’s would create traffic and air pollution problems.

Hillvale Properties’ proposals, which include the demolition of outbuildings, a single story extension and the creation of two flats above, prompted a 1,700-name petition, a public meeting and 127 letters against the scheme on Goldcroft Common.

Sitting councillors Angela Jones, Gail Giles and Charles Ferris all objected to the plans at yesterday’s meeting, siting traffic worries, a threat to local businesses and concerns it would not be in keeping with the conservation area’s character.

Sitting Shaftesbury councillor Bob Poole said the development would cause “huge problems”, while Ringland ward member John Fortey said the committee should support residents’ views and reject the scheme.

Planners said a new store would enhance the Caerleon district centre and it was unlikely to harm Caerleon centre’s vitality and viability.

They added there was no evidence that additional traffic would be significant and harmful and said most people visiting the shop would be local, which would simply see a redistribution of existing village traffic.

Members agreed to a site visit, due to take place in June.