A Newport house which caused uproar in the town looks set to get the thumbs up from the National Park following a long running planning row.

Bettws Newydd, a large replacement dwelling nearing completion on the Parrog, was granted planning approval in 2006, but applied for retrospective permission after the construction deviated from the original plans.

Planning officers have now recommended the application is approved when it is considered by the Development Management Committee next Wednesday.

More than 300 people signed a petition opposing the building, and 35 letters of objection and two of support were received by the Authority.

Several concerned locals are now planning to speak at the committee meeting.

Those opposing the building say it is ugly and an eyesore, too high, more visually intrusive than the building it replaced, goes against planning policies and looks like an industrial building.

Officers say the changes from the original plans are "relatively minor" and do not cause "any significant harm".

The officer’s report states: "It is considered that this proposal will preserve and enhance the character of the area, and introduce a new, more modern element."

The Authority’s Conservation Officer stated: "What has been proposed seems to be a step in the right direction towards developing new sites in the National Park.

"A new house in a new style seems far more compatible with the character of the area, continuing the pattern of development."

The officer’s report added: "Despite the request in many objections to knock the building down, the applicant has no requirement to do that should permission be refused: he could merely revert to the approved plans."

Robbie Manson, a member of a group actively opposing the development, was disappointed by the recommendation.

He said: "We will make it clear to members that if they proceed with the recommendation we are going to seriously consider challenging this legally."