A DAMAGED roof with dozens of loose and missing slates is causing concern to several nearby residents.

The derelict house on North Street, Newport, empty for over 25 years, is in such a bad state neighbours say slates are falling from the roof and fear someone will soon be hurt.

Mervyn Stead, 77, lives behind the North Street property and recently wrote to the council.

"I have picked up slates outside for years, but I saw one flying off the roof last week and had to try something," he said.

He pointed out the building is very near to a bus stop and within 50 metres to the entrance of St Woolos primary school.

"Having seen that slate fly off I fear for others. One day it's going to come down and hit member of the public or a car or a bus and that is going to do someone a serious injury," Mr Stead said.

Timothy Wells, 55, has lived next door the damaged building for 23 years: "When my grandchildren are here I always worry about when they're out the back, I can't take my eyes off them.

"It's out of order," he said.

Stow Hill ward councillor Miqdad Al-Nuaimi, agreed with their concerns: "I think the residents are justified in being worried about this building.

"It is not in a good state of repair and I would like to see it sorted one way or another," he said.

Newport city council said they are acting to resolve the situation.

A council spokesperson said: "We are monitoring the situation closely and have written to the owner of the property about the condition of the roof.

"If the repairs are not undertaken as soon as possible, we will instigate enforcement action."