NEWPORT'S flagship theatre and arts centre was officially named Welsh Building of the Year 2005 yesterday.

The council-owned Riverfront, on the banks of the River Usk in the city centre, beat off competition from across Wales to win the title.

The building was chosen by a panel of judges from the Consortium of Local Authorities Wales (CLAW) - a group of councils which aims to promote good practice for new building projects.

Nic Young, theatre and arts director, described the innovative building as a "bold statement" which shows that the arts are central to the city.

He said: "I think CLAW recognised the vision that went with the building." Mr Young said he was "delighted" when he heard the Riverfront had won. This is the second year running that a Newport city council building has scooped the title, with the Caerleon Pavilion winning last year.

The Riverfront houses two theatre spaces, a dance studio, recording studio, an exhibition gallery, three workshop spaces and a multi-purpose function room.

In its first year, 60,000 people visited a range of shows and activities. The centre was praised for attracting big name performers such as comedian Jack Dee and Welsh singer Katherine Jenkins.

The Riverfront is owned, managed and funded by Newport city council and was awarded a lottery grant by the Arts Council of Wales towards the construction of the building.

Councillor Ron Jones, cabinet member for culture and recreation, said: "For Newport city council to win this award for the second year in a row is a tremendous achievement and demonstrates this council's commitment to providing people with state-of-the art facilities."

Tamsin Dunwoody AM, deputy minister for economic development and transport, presented the award yesterday.

A plaque is to be put up on the front of the building to mark the achievement.