NEWPORT could be in line for yet another jobs bonanza as city bosses admit to more civil service relocation talks.

The Argus has learnt the city council and regeneration company Newport Unlimited are engaged in talks with the Probation Service.

It is understood the service is seeking to relocate part of its administrative operation to the city's Celtic Springs Business Park. It is not known how many jobs could be created by the move, which would be the third major jobs boost in less than a year.

But, if given the go-ahead, it would be another coup for the city and its regeneration.

Last week the Argus revealed the Prison Service was bringing its finance and human resources departments to the city from January 2006, creating 500 posts.

That announcement came shortly after news that the Office of National Statistics was also to relocate 500 jobs to the city.

Speaking at a meeting of Newport council, Councillor Ken Critchley, cabinet member for development and employment, said: "On occasions it does seem the whole world is awash with interest in coming to Newport.

"We had the announcement of the Office of National Statistics and Prison Service jobs. I'm over the moon about that, but it's not the end of the tale. "I expect that shortly there will be more news about the Probation Service seeking to relocate to this area."

The relocations are all part of the Government's plan to transfer 27,000 civil service jobs out of London and into the regions.

The Prison Service and Office of National Statistics both said that Newport offered the best option, scoring points on workforce, location, appropriate accommodation and facilities.

A spokeswoman for Newport Unlimited confirmed talks were taking place with the council and probation service, but stressed it was still early days.