PLANS for a 44 apartment block at the entrance to Penarth have been given the backing of town councillors.

The proposal to build the ground plus four storey new build in land at Cogan Hill has been recommended for approval by Penarth Town Council's planning and transportation committee at their meeting on January 26.

The proposed block would be located on the left side of the hill on the approach to the Tesco roundabout coming from Penarth towards Cardiff near to Cogan train station.

The plan would provide 44 affordable housing units which committee members agreed is needed in the town.

There would be one and two bedroom apartments with a total of 31 parking spaces.

Councillor Martin Turner raised concerns over the design but said that this was a "matter of taste."

Councillor Mark Wilson said that it was currently difficult to find accommodation in Penarth and said the new apartments would help with this.

Councillor Philip Rapier raised the issue of pollution in the area and road safety.

He said a potential section 106 contribution may fund some traffic lights in the area which he says are needed.

Town councillors gave their approval but raised concerns over design, air quality and confirmed that they would seek assurances of the section 106 contribution.

The plans will now go to the Vale council for a decision.