Mixed-use Newport city centre scheme set for approval

Plans for a ‘strategically important’ mixed-use development scheme in the centre of Newport with a shop, and housing for people aged over 55, are set to be given the go ahead by councillors (11 January 2017).Roberts Limbrick Architects, on behalf of the Pobl Group, lodged an application with Newport Council in August 2016 for 123-129 Commercial Street.The developer intends to demolish the existing buildings, including the former Hornblower pub, and replace them with 38 flats and a ground floor retail unit. New car parking will also be provided.The scheme is said to be of “strategic importance for the continued regeneration of the city centre” and has received grant funding under the Welsh Government’s Vibrant and Viable Places Framework. It has also been subject to a review by the Design Commission for Wales.As well as the pub, the site previously featured retail units, offices and storage space but is now largely vacant.Newport City Council’s cabinet previously approved a compulsory purchase order for the purchase of 126 Commercial Street, which includes the former Hornblower pub.The application is due to go before Newport City Council’s planning committee at a meeting on 11 January 2017, and councillors are recommended to grant planning consent.A report prepared ahead of the meeting said: “This scheme provides a clear opportunity to act as a further catalyst for economic development in the city centre with wider social and environmental benefits to the locality.