RESIDENTS in Pontnewydd are campaigning to stop a One Stop store moving into a former pub.

Earlier this week, the Argus reported that plans had been submitted to amend the previously granted planning permission for the store to move into the former Pontnewydd Inn on Commercial Street.

The application, submitted in 2013, was approved subject to conditions – including that no deliveries be made or dispatched from outside between 5pm and 9am or from outside the site (on the street), or by vehicles over 8.5 metres in length.

South Wales Argus: Plans for a One Stop shopfront in Pontnewydd.Plans for a One Stop shopfront in Pontnewydd. (Image: Innovate Signs/One Stop Stores Limited)

A new application, submitted by calfordseaden LLP on behalf of One Stop, has now been made to the council to amend some of the conditions that were previously agreed.

These include allowing deliveries between 6am and 8pm from vehicles with a maximum length of 11 metres.

A petition has been set up opposing the amended application, with concerns over proposed deliveries restricting access through the village, as well as over whether there was a need for another shop of this nature.

“The parking in Pontnewydd it atrocious most of the time,” said resident Duncan Campbell. “Now they are asking to park an 11-metre lorry out there.

“It’s ridiculous. You can’t cross the road there anyway.”

South Wales Argus: Residents outlined how an 11-metre delivery vehicle would restrict traffic on the road.Residents outlined how an 11-metre delivery vehicle would restrict traffic on the road. (Image: Duncan Campbell)

This week, residents drew out the maximum size of delivery lorries that would be allowed under the new application in chalk on the road – highlighting how it would restrict access along the road.

“There are family run businesses.,” Mr Campbell added. “They are small family businesses that employ local people.

“They started a petition when the posters went up.

“The village is against it. It’s only a small place and does not need it there.”

Anyone who would like to find out more, or would like to sign the paper petition, should visit the shops on Commercial Street.

More details on the application can be found on the planning and development section of the Torfaen council website, with the reference 22/P/0720/VAR.