THE LATEST phase of ambitious plans to regenerate an area of Newport could be given the green light next week.

An application from Newport City Homes to build 24 "high quality" homes as part of a £30million regeneration of Ringland has been recommended for approval.

Under the plans an apartment building in Mountbatten Close would be knocked down and replaced with a mixture of houses and and a new three-storey block of flats.

Residents living in the existing maisonette will be rehomed at a nearby housing development in Cot Farm, which has already been approved.

The existing housing block

The current housing block, built in the early 1960s, is "nearing the end of its designed life" and is planned to be replaced with modern, affordable homes.

A block of 12 flats and 12 semi-detached houses would be built under the plans.

The proposal forms part of a project by Newport City Homes to bring a "new identity" to Ringland.

A masterplan outlines a vision to build 170 homes and a new shopping area.

The proposed development will result in the loss of open space and trees, something the council's head of city services wants acknowledged in the application.

As well as the loss of green space, the plans will result in a "large number of trees" being removed - including five ash trees, two field maple plants and an oak tree - although some replacement tree planting is proposed.

"Despite the claims with regards to the desirability of the retention of the trees, they undoubtedly contribute to the pleasant appearance and quality of the environmental space," a council report says.

But planning officers conclude that although the loss of open green space is 'regrettable', it will not have a "significant adverse effect" as there is a surplus in the area.

The plans also have the backing of the council's head of regeneration, who says the redevelopment of Ringland will benefit the community and help meet a need for affordable homes.

Rachel George, head of development and regeneration at Newport City Homes, said the plans have received "widespread approval from the Ringland community."

"This is a significant project for us, with more than £30 million being invested over the duration of our works, and we have worked closely with the local community at every stage," Ms George said.

Councillors will decide the application at a Newport council planning committee meeting on Wednesday.