COMMUNITY leaders in Chepstow are angry after a "poorly designed" riverside apartment complex was narrowly given the go-ahead.

A £5 million plan for the Furniture Smart shop and warehouse in The Back to be converted into 18 flats with associated car parking was approved despite opposition from Chepstow town council.

The four-storey complex at Riverside Mill, next to the River Wye, will lead to the closure of Furniture Smart.

Henry Hodges and David Dovey are members of Chepstow town council's planning committee, which objected to the proposals from local businessman Peter Mills.

Councillor Hodges is also secretary of Chepstow Society, whose heritage trail runs along The Back.

He said the architectural style was "totally out of keeping" with the surrounding area.

"We support the change of use to residential purposes," said Councillor Hodges.

"But the block of flats will have a flat roof, and the look of the conservation area will definitely not be improved by such a modernist building. It's more suitable for Cardiff Bay."

Councillor Dovey said the "whole area was steeped in history".

"It was a busy port, and where the Chartists were deported to Australia," he added.

"This is a great redevelopment opportunity, but the design is totally wrong. It will look like a giant coffee maker."

Monmouthshire council's planning comittee members also criticised the proposal, with five members insisting it should be redesigned.

Concerns were raised about the "brick finish" of the plans, and the impact it would have on Chepstow Castle.

However, the committee approved the application by six votes to five.

Meanwhile the plans received the backing of town councillor Ned Heywood.

"The last thing we would want is a pastiche of Georgian houses," he said.

"Why should Chepstow always be stuck in the past? The town, and architecture of the town, must be allowed to move on."

Mr Mills, owner of Southward Properties, said the complex would be a "high-quality" development providing "luxurious" accommodation.

"When it comes to architecture everyone has a view," he added. "But this proposal will bring Chepstow's riverside back to life."