PLANS to develop and preserve the largest derelict industrial site in South East Wales moved a step closer at a public meeting attended by Torfaen council.

Last year, Torfaen County Borough Council agreed to purchase The British in Talywain from HSBC as part of a £3.7-million package with support from the Welsh Government.

While many residents have been largely in favour of the brownfield site being transferred from private to public ownership, others have expressed feelings of mistrust over the council purchase.

A public meeting – called by The British Liaison Group (BLG) – welcomed Torfaen council-appointed project manager David Leech, who will be the main point of contact for residents in relation to the site.

In a short presentation to a packed crowd, he invited the community to work together to discuss options for the site.

Veronika Brannovic, of Gwent Wildlife Trust, spoke at the meeting, appealing for local information to build a picture of the site’s ecology and for volunteers to maintain the site.

Several formal BLG appointments were also made including John Cox being elected as chairman and Linda Clarkson elected as vice chair.

Following the meeting, Abersychan ward councillor, Wayne Tomlinson, said it was important to recognise people’s concerns but also to “move forward”.

“I have lived on the British for around 28 years and have seen eight companies take control over the years .The fact they have a project manager to front this has to be a positive way forward,” he said.

Resident Gwyn Jenkins, 67, from Garndiffaith, added he had “reservations” about council involvement, stating he has “never known Torfaen council to consult with anyone”.

“I just want to see the site tidied up and I would like to see the buildings renovated,” he said.

Project manager, David Leech, added: “Today was just an introduction for people to get to know me and ask the questions around the way we’re thinking around this at the minute and our ideas for the site.

“I’m looking forward to it and it’s quite an exciting project.”