THE auction today (Thursday) to sell the former infant school in Park Street, Abergavenny is expected to attract a lot of local interest.

Local residents formed a group to explore the possibility of buying the property from Monmouthshire County Council and changing it into a community centre.

The group applied to Abergavenny Town Council for their backing in this venture by buying it as an asset for the town after an unsuccessful Lottery bid.

But the councillors did not want to commit council resources. Abergavenny Community Centre (ltd) Residents' Group say the forthcoming auction sparked new interest three weeks ago.

Marion Pearse, a director of the group told the Chronicle, "ACC has been in dialogue with a new business partner and collectively we are in the process of developing a strong proposal for MCC.

"The new partners will bring a range of child care services to the area and create work opportunities for local people. The new partner and ACC's core philosophies are a perfect match."

She added, "In the last six years we have left no stone unturned in our commitment to secure funds to buy Park Street School from the local authority and if the school goes to auction then we will be making a bid.

"Creating a purposeful sense of place and belonging in people is a sound economic strategy and should never be brushed aside as soft and woolly.

"The ACC team feel that the building is at the heart of local plans for future prosperity and sustainability.

"Please look at our website and see who we are and what it is we stand for http://www.community-centre-abergavenny.com">www.community-centre-abergavenny.com or ring me on 01873 859455."

The auction will be held at the Angel Hotel, Abergavenny tonight.