PLANNERS in Monmouthshire have deferred taking a decision to build a complex of 45 apartments for the elderly in Abergavenny, as they felt the design was 'bland' and that the building was 'too large'.

The proposal would see the demolition of the former Mill Steel building at the town's bus station and the construction of a new complex of flats on the site.

Members discussing the proposal at a planning committee meeting on Tuesday however, felt that the design represented an over-development of the area, which has recently see the opening of a new Aldi store.

George Ashworth, Monmouthshire's head of planning, told the meeting the authority was still in discussion with the developers McCarthy and Stone over various issues, which included the provision of affordable housing.

"Despite the fact that the proposed building is very large, its basic computerised imagery makes it look ultimately very bland and it is not in keeping with the surroundings," said Mr Ashworth

A report into the proposals said that the design represented "an incongruous, cramped form of development that would unnecessarily dominate important views towards St Mary's Priory Church and its environs."

The church is a key building within the Abergavenny Conservation Area and the scheme is considered by officers to conflict with the statutory requirement to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of this area.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Giles Howard said, "I'm all in favour of the development of the site in principle, but we do need assurances over its designs."

Councillor Maureen Powell agreed, and added, "A development of this nature is ideal in this location. However it is far too big to sit comfortably in its surroundings and it should be significantly reduced."

Councillor Pauline Watts said, "The proposal, as it stands in front of us, is not acceptable."

Councillor Roger Harris said he was also concerned that the affordable housing element hadn't been addressed.

"We have an opportunity here to have something really special built to replace the old Mill Steel building. We have a duty to Abergavenny to get it right. The application currently doesn't do that," said Councillor Harris

Councillor David Dovey said that if the development were to be amended it would be an improvement to what is currently on the site. He pointed out, "It's an important historical site in Abergavenny however, the proposal is not ascetically up to the required standard."

"We want a design that we can be proud of," he added.

Councillor Peter Clarke suggested that members should meet with the developers before the next meeting to see if the situation could be resolved.

It was agreed that the delegation panel and planning officers would meet with the developers before the next planning committee meeting is held on January 8, 2013.