PLANS for a £4.7 million health complex in Blaenavon moved a step closer after proposals were submitted to Torfaen council.

The official plans for the Blaenavon Primary Care Resource Centre, developed by Cheshire-based Assura Group and its partner LSP Developments, have now been given to the council to consider.

The building, on Middle Coedcae Road, would be two or three storeys high, on the site of the former Blaenavon Recreation Centre.

It would re-home the town’s Carreg Wen Surgery from its current premises which were deemed no longer fit for purpose and would also offer specialist medical services, office space and a pharmacy.

It is a joint project by Torfaen council and the Aneurin Bevan Health Board.

The Welsh Assembly Government gave its approval for the project last year.

It was originally hoped the centre would open in 2010 and consultation on the proposals has been ongoing since 2005 with public events and display boards.

The proposed health complex would form part of the £18 million community campus development on the site of the former leisure centre and swimming pool which were demolished in 2008.

This includes the new £13 million Blaenavon Heritage Voluntary Controlled Primary School, due to open on April 25, which will have a sports hall, dance studio and fitness suite.