Store and pub for landmark site

The new store will have a separate family pub

A supermarket - with a pub attached - looks set to be built on the site of a landmark factory in south Wales.

The Dunlop Semtex factory at Brynmawr was demolished three years ago, despite protests from local people and leading architects.

Now Asda has been given outline planning permission for a store.

The plans also include a family pub with a garden overlooking a lake.

Completed in 1953, the Dunlop Semtex factory is said to have inspired the Sydney Opera House and was one of the first buildings to receive listed status after World War II.

But the landmark was bulldozed in 2001 to make way for new developments despite protests.

Architects wanted the old factory's domes preserved

As well as a 35,000 sq ft store, Asda's plans include public parking for 500 cars and four retail units on the far side of the car park.

It is expected to create about 300 new jobs.

Leader of Blaenau Gwent Council, councillor John Hopkins, said: "This development should be a terrific boost for Brynmawr and the whole area.

"The prospect of 300 local new jobs is tremendous and I'm sure will be welcomed by everyone.

"A development of this kind will be a major catalyst for regeneration, bringing extra investment to the town and attracting people from a wide area."

It is the first time the store group have been linked with a pub development.

"It means that people can come and have a drink in a nice setting after doing the shopping," said Asda's Simon Leonard.

"The main thing about it is that is it a family pub and so children will be welcome.

"Asda are not going to run the pub - it will be run independently. I'm sure it will be very popular," he added.