BUILDING work has begun on Pontypool's Clarence Hotel. The long-awaited redevelopment of the run-down former hotel should take around 65 weeks and cost more than £2 million.

Eastern Valley Housing Association, which owns the building, plans to convert it into 14 flats for rent, along with offices and a conference/training facility.

However, work will initially only be carried out on the residential part of the project while funding bids submitted to Europe and the National Assembly are being considered for the remainder of the scheme.

If that additional funding can't be secured, the whole building will be converted into flats, with no offices and conference space.

Mark Gardner, chief executive of Eastern Valley Housing Association, said: "I am absolutely delighted that works have started at the Clarence Hotel. This is a landmark project that will regenerate part of the Clarence corner, and which will benefit the whole of Pontypool for years to come.

"The association is very proud to be involved in this very important project, and great thanks are due to our many partners, especially Torfaen county borough council, our contractors, consultants, funders and the Assembly for the provision of a Social Housing Grant for the residential units."