A DEBATE took place at last week's Abergavenny Town Council meeting over whether to agree to discuss the new site for the Cattle Market.

Members disagreed following a request that they give their opinions on the possible site at Bryngwyn. A vote took place after the debate and it was decided, by one vote, to discuss the market at next month's meeting.

Mayor, councillor Douglas Edward told the meeting, "The planning chairman asked for representation from Abergavenny Town Council."

Councillor Paul Jordan immediately responded saying, "But it's out of our Jurisdiction . We will not be able to express views as Abergavenny Town Council as we don't live in the area. It's not part of this council's business to deal with Bryngwyn issues. We are taking about specific planning issues pertaining to this community - we are stepping on their toes."

Councillor John Prosser agreed with councillor Jordan, he said, "I am not familiar with that area, I would not be justified to pass comments. Any individual can comment on any application on the council website. I concur with councillor Jordan. It's the responsibility of the community council in that area."

"My level of knowledge about place like Chepstow is supplemented by what I receive. I see no reason why people in this council should not have a view on the cattle market," said councillor Edwards.

Councillor Norma Watkins agreed with the mayor, she said, "I believe that the removal of the cattle market should not happen. It is the biggest threat since they killed Tudor Street. Look how many people come into town on a Wednesday thanks to Newport market. It's taking up the footfall and that's the place for the market - not Bryngwyn."

"If we talk about whether the Cattle Market stays, you and I both know that it was discussed two years ago and the decision was unanimous - that the retention was never going to happen. You know it's never going to happen in Abergavenny," added councillor Jordan.

Councillor Edwards said, "I don't know anything about what's going to happen." Members took a vote on whether to discuss the cattle market. Six were in favour and five against.