The site of a former independent card and gift shop in Cwmbran town centre has been given permission to change its use.

Doodlebug was based at 8 North Walk until it closed in February 2023. At the time the owners said they were looking forward to a “career change and a new adventure”. The shop has been vacant and available for rent since then. It was classed for A1 retail use which covers general shops. The town centre’s owners L&C Investments Ltd applied to Torfaen Council to change the use to A3 which allows food or drink to be sold for consumption on or off the premises. Cwmbran Community Council, the Llantarnam Ward councillors and the public health team didn’t make any comments on the proposal and it was approved this week. Any business that takes on the lease in the future will be allowed to open from 9am to 11pm seven days a week.