BLAENAVON'S industrial heritage will be protected from unsuitable development after new planning guidance was adopted by Torfaen council last week.

The Blaenavon Conservation Plan aims to safeguard and enhance historic buildings and sites within the Blaenavon Conservation Area.

Councillors will have to refer to the plan before granting planning permission to new projects.

The plan contains guidance, general policy recommendations and proposals aimed at promoting improvements which don't harm Blaenavon's industrial-era attractions.

It is hoped that the plan will help to retain the buildings, areas and features that are not being safeguarded by existing conservation schemes, such as those at the Ironworks, St Peter's School, and the old council offices.

An Historic Town Scheme will be created, to prioritise grant aid to buildings in greatest need of repair. They include properties in King Street, Broad Street and residential areas of terraced housing.

An enhancement scheme for the upper area of King Street is proposed - linked to the Ironworks.

The council will also review traffic flows in the town to make sure noise and congestion are not detracting from the significance of Blaenavon.

Blaenavon councillor Neil Lewis said: "This will make sure future developments are in line with Blaenavon's World Heritage Status, which is crucial to the town."

Councillor John Marshall, executive member for the environment, said: "This is a welcome step forward in the regeneration of Blaenavon. I support its content as it will make sure that future developments retain the character of the area.

"Blaenavon town centre and the surrounding streets which make up the conservation area are widely acknowledged as the focus for the World Heritage Site, and need to be recognised as a key priority."

An exhibition to raise public awareness about the conservation plan is due to be held later this year.