PLANS to open a new chapter in the life of a historic Caerleon building have been given the go-ahead.

The Priests House is a Grade II-listed building near the village centre, and was originally built as a presbytery for the priest of a nearby church.

There are now plans to return the property to its original intended use as a long-term private residence for members of the clergy.

The project will include sweeping renovations to the property, including the removal of many non-original features and the demolition of some outbuildings which are deemed "poor quality later additions" to the house.

The property was first built in 1885 and received listed building status in 2002 for its special historic character. It is one of several listed buildings in Caerleon.

The planning application for the current work noted it had fallen into disrepair in recent years and had only "limited access for maintenance by the Archdiocese".

"The property therefore suffered greatly from neglect and a lack of ventilation which resulted in significant condensation, mould growth and deterioration to surface materials, fixtures, and fittings," the application stated.

Council planners noted the Priests House "is in a poor state of repair" and occupies "a prominent position" in the village.

Some work has already been carried out at the property, including the removal of flooring and non-original fittings to combat mould and "prevent further decline", documents show.

Glamorgan Gwent Archaeological Trust (GGAT) was consulted on the plans, and noted the property's location within the Caerleon Archaeologically Sensitive Area, which is rich in Roman and Medieval history.

GGAT said there was "the potential for encountering archaeologically significant remains" during the proposal, even if the demolition work is "relatively limited in scale".

Council officers said the applicant had revised plans following some initial concerns, adding they were satisfied "the amendments and additional information is sufficient and would overall result in the preservation of the historic and architectural interest of the listed building".

The plans were approved with conditions, including for the applicant to "identify and record any features of archaeological interest discovered during the works".