Unused land in Rogerstone to be sold by council for development

The land, behind Rogerstone Library on Tregwilym Road, became “surplus” following the construction of the A467.

It is unallocated in Newport’s Development Plan and is not designated as public open space.

There are also no play areas or benches and no formal rights of way on site.

The cabinet member for human resources and assets Gail Giles declared the land surplus yesterday.

The council is currently in the process of reviewing its property assets and is seeking to dispose of surplus and vacant space.

The decision to dispose of the land was made as there is no “internal” demand for the land.

Disposal will bring in money for the council and will remove any expense of maintenance from the council.

Council officers say residential development in principle would be acceptable subject to noise reduction interventions as a result of how near it is to the A467.

The existing access to the site is via the road by Rogerstone Pentecostal Church which would not be an acceptable route in and out of a housing development due to its narrowness.

The council has provisionally agreed with the owners of both 166 Tregwilym Road, the now demolished former Royal

British Legion Club, and the lane that a new road access to the council’s land will be provided across their land to enable its development.

Officers think the size and configuration of Newport’s land is unlikely to attract the major house builders and is more suited to the providers of affordable housing.

Rogerstone councillors supported the decision.

Cllr Chris Evans said: “I've been encouraging Seren to look at this land so, great news. Which, I personally will support.”

Cllr Thomas Bond said: “In terms of style of development, affordable houses would be far preferable.

"There are also some forward thinking options we could look at such as a housing co-operative.”

Cllr Sally Mlewa agreed it is good news, adding that affordable housing is “desperately needed” in the area.