RESIDENTS in Devauden say they are concerned about a proposed £1.8 million stud farm by businessman Terry Johnsey.

The plans on 255 acres of land at Llanfihangel-Tor-Y-Mynydd, Llanfihangel Court, have been objected to by 30 residents.

One resident, David Lucas, said: "We are unhappy with this proposal as the development sticks out like a sore thumb in an area that has a special landscape."

Another resident, Paul Smith said: "I am concerned about the increase of vehicular access to the site."

But Mr Johnsey wants to allay the Monmouthshire villagers' fears, his solicitor said.

Speaking on Mr Johnsey's behalf, solicitor Robert Davies, from RDP Newport, says residents have been "misinformed".

He said: "This has been represented as a stately home, which is not the case.

"This is a huge investment for Monmouthshire, the Johnsey family want to support show jumping but as a business and a farm. To compete in the international market as a stud farm we have to have presence.

"It has seven rooms but that doesn't make it a stately home, it will be a working stud farm and a terribly exciting investment for Monmouthshire that will hopefully bring a lot of kudos here."

Mr Davies believes there is a strong chance family member Gemma Johnsey, 17, will compete in the 2012 Olympics.

He said the farm would be in keeping with the surroundings and advised villagers to look at the plans.

"I don't think people would be against it if they studied the plans, it has been carefully designed. I urge anyone concerned to contact me on 01633 277638," he said.

Devauden community councillors said they had no objection to a development in principle, but felt this plan was too large.

A decision on the matter will be taken at a later date by Monmouthshire council planners.