A LARGE-SCALE housing scheme could breathe life into a derelict industrial site - and continue the planned transformation of one of Newport's most run-down areas.

Leading housebuilder Redrow is seeking to create 380 new homes on the former Black Clawson site in East Dock Road, Pill.

Among the reasons the company cites for wanting to embark on such a scheme is that Newport is an "up-and-coming city".

Its application is now with the council and the planning committee will decide whether or not to give it the thumbs-up at a future meeting.

Massive investments are being made in the city by urban regeneration company Newport Unlimited as part of its vision of the future.

It is involved in a series of developments intended to regenerate the riverfront, including a £20 million project featuring high-quality apartments in the Old Town Dock.

Glyn Mabey, managing director for Redrow Homes (South Wales), said the company selected the location because it saw significant growth prospects for Newport and surrounding areas.

He added the Black Clawson scheme would take full advantage of the riverside location with a variety of accommodation from one-bed apartments to four-bedroom houses.

It will also include its Debut homes, designed to give first-time buyers a chance to get on the property ladder. Currently, the Debut range prices start at just under £50,000.

"The scheme has been designed in consultation with the local authority and the National Design Commission for Wales as we are all seeking a dramatic and high-quality-designed scheme to kick-start this regeneration area in Newport," Mr Mabey said.

"We are experiencing a high level of interest in the site already, particularly related to people's views that this is an up- and-coming city with great spins-offs anticipated from the eagerly awaited Ryder Cup tournament in 2010."