TALKS have begun to try to find a solution to a major obstacle blocking the development of the landmark former Newport art college.

For many years, the Clarence Place building has been an eyesore - damaged by fires and infested with rats.

Plans to convert it into luxury flats were welcomed by business and community leaders after they were revealed in the Argus last summer.

But the ambitious proposals foundered last November, when councillors heard the conversion of the college would not include its own parking facilities.

The 63 flats in the Grade II listed building would have been served by only 17 parking spaces on site, which would leave a shortfall of 46 spaces.

Now the developer is in talks to lay the plans before council planners once more.

Michael Merritt, a spokesman for developer First Investment and Finance, said: "We were disappointed the plans were turned down, but my client is attempting to address the one issue of car parking.

"The negotiations are under way, so we cannot say much about the details, but there's no reason why the car parking can't be resolved."

Ward councillor Harry Williams said: "With a project such as this it is always an on-going affair. Everyone is eager and anxious to have something done about it, but you have got to be careful about the desperation factor.

"We don't want something to replace it that could become a potential problem."

He added permission was given a few years ago for what he described as a "sensible project" for 42 flats.

Councillors on the planning committee said the 63 flats would encourage car crime - a view backed by Gwent Police - and would add to parking havoc.

Mr Merritt said putting more spaces on the site or reducing the number of flats were not options.

He added: "It's a Grade II listed building. To chop lumps of it away to create parking is impossible."