A NEW village could be created in Gwent with radical plans for the site of a factory near Pontypool.

A blueprint for a whole new community was submitted yesterday to Torfaen council officials for the regeneration of 162 acres of land around the former Du Pont site in Mamhilad.

Newport-based developers Johnsey Estates outlined the masterplan. If given the go-ahead, the exciting new development would include: 1,200 homes built on a 60.5 acre plot 33 acres of office space A primary school Two sports pitches A hotel A village centre including shops, a doctor's surgery, a church and other community facilities.

Johnsey Estates bosses worked closely with representatives from Friends of the Earth and the Gwent Wildlife Trust to ensure the environment was preserved.

The plans also include areas of retained woodland and hedgerows, a footpath, a cycle path and community park areas.

Johnsey Estates' ambitious venture includes a new railway station to serve the village on the other side of the A4042.

Company boss Lee Johnsey said the development would be a boost for the area.

"Being able to work positively with the Gwent Wildlife Trust and Friends of the Earth has meant we are able to bring forward something special for this part of Wales."

Friends of the Earth representative Mike Jacob welcomed the development.

Julian Branscombe, from the Gwent Wildlife Trust, added: "This is a golden opportunity to design a development around the needs of people and wildlife."

Johnsey Estates' Richard Evans said: "It's very early days but we are saying here's a brownfield site in need of regeneration and we believe that a mixed use development will be the best way to go."