ASYLUM-SEEKERS' appeals will be heard in the centre of Newport from next week, as Langstone residents prepare for a public inquiry over a proposed court on their doorsteps.

The Immigration Appellates Authority (IAA) is to open a temporary appeals centre at Pentonville magistrates court, Newport. The hearings will commence on June 30 with a maximum of four cases per day per court listed, and two courts sitting.

The premises will be used because the proposed court at Columbus House, in Langstone, which was due to open in December last year, remains closed after local protest.

It will be the subject of a public inquiry at Newport Civic Centre on July 15.

The Argus exclusively revealed in February this year that Pentonville court was being put forward as a temporary alternative to stop a backlog of cases building up.

And because the use of the building is not being changed, there is no need for public consultation.

Newport council cabinet member for resources Ken Critchley said: "I had the proposal to use Pentonville court for this purpose put to me, and I don't see it as a major problem because the numbers just aren't there.

"My answer to critics is that when you see an elephant in front of you, you have to deal with it.

"If we don't deal with these cases they aren't going to go away."

Simon Lane, chairman of Langstone Action, which represents over 1,200 residents, said: "We've said all along that an appeals centre should be located in the city centre if it is to best serve appellates who will be travelling from all over South Wales and the South-East of England.

"Columbus House may be convenient for the judiciary to reach by car, but for asylum-seekers using public transport it will seem impossibly difficult.

"We have visited other similar centres around the UK, and the poor location of Columbus House and lack of facilities in the area stick out like a sore thumb."

A spokesman for the Crown has said: "We are still in the process of deciding whether or not to go ahead with the asylum appeals centre. A decision will be made in due course."

* In the picture: Members of Langstone Action at Columbus House.