A proper orthogonal decomposition based model is considered for two-dimensional vortex shedding past a confined square cylinder. The aim is to study the validity of such a model for Reynolds numbers and blockage ratios that are different from those for which the model was derived. Using a calibration procedure it is shown that reliable results can be obtained in terms of short-term (one period) dynamics. Long-term dynamics are accurately captured with a variation of the Reynolds number, whereas the error becomes large when the blockage ratio changes. The controllability and observability of vortex shedding at a slightly supercritical Reynolds number is investigated relying on the accurate low-order models obtained.