Aldi submitted plans to build a store near the Skewfields Roundabout which links the A472 and the A4042 at the former Trico site.
In December 2017, Councillors refused the plans citing concerns of “undermining the vitality, viability and attractiveness” of Pontypool town centre and the “poor location” of the site for non-car modes of transport.
Councillors were also fearful that it could lead to an “increased risk of accidents” for cyclists and pedestrians. Members of the Torfaen's planning department cited concerns that the out of town development would have on Pontypool, as it would not be able to create "link trips".