AFTER years of waiting, a new magistrates court for Newport is likely to come a step closer this week.

Her Majesty's Court Service wants to build a new multi-million pound court in Mission Court, off Lower Dock Street, to replace the unfit present building near the civic centre.

It will include four courts, public areas, custody provision and a public square outside.

The main access to the proposed contemporary building will be Usk Way and it is intended to get an excellent sustainability rating in an environmental BREEAM assessment.

Vans carrying defendants will be able to drive in and out of a secure dock area on the ground floor while the courts will be on the first and second floors.

Officers are recommending to Wednesday's planning committee that the scheme is given the go-ahead.

"It is considered that the proposed magistrates court would have significant economic implications for Newport," says a report.

Between 32 and 34 jobs would be created although some staff would be transferring from the existing court.

"Additionally it is recognised that such a building would have a knock-on effects for the surrounding area, more people would be attracted to the area and it is possible that legal firms would look at the surrounding offices due to their close proximity to the proposed court."

It is hoped the new court will open in 2012 - 25 years after it was first proposed.

In 2000, official inspectors ruled that the present building wss unfit for purpose.