MURALS depicting modern Newport which were never completed because of the artist's death look set to be boarded over.

However, it is likely the two displays by Roger Smith will be recorded and a recessed frame will allow part of his creations to be displayed.

Mr Smith began painting two colourful displays in the entrance hall to the city's civic centre in April 2003.

But his work was tragically cut short when he became ill with cancer and died in 2004.

It was hoped another artist would finish the murals in the entrance hall of the council's headquarters.

However, members of the cabinet were told issues relating to the completion plan were raised.

A report of the discussion, which was held behind closed doors before Christmas, revealed the scrutiny forum for culture and recreation recommended the works should be decomissioned and boarded over after being recorded.

Their view was endorsed by the cabinet who also decided there should be a recessed frame to display part of the murals.

It was also felt the area could be used as a temporary exhibitions space for artworks from the city's collection.

Councillor Ron Jones, cabinet member for culture and recreation, asked his colleagues to consider a multi-media exhibition on the history behind the murals.

Mr Smith's murals were commissioned as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations and the designs included the Transporter Bridge, Commercial Street and the Wave.

They were intended to bring the civic centre's famous murals up to date. Hans Felbusch created a series of huge murals on the first floor in the 1960s depicting Newport's history.