THE conversion of a landmark listed building into eighteen luxury flats has been given the go ahead by Newport city council.

Shire Hall, in Pentonville in the city centre, which once served as the offices for Monmouthshire county council, will now be transformed into 18 self-contained one and two bedroom flats.

The planning application which was submitted in April was granted permission on Friday November 8.

In May of this year, the former council offices was sold for £415,000 to private developer Jahan Abedi, who took part in Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire series in 2010.

There had previously been plans by SK Design Ltd to convert the hall into 20 flats that didn’t come to fruition. John Wotton architects have since taken over the project, based on the original plans.

The Cardiff-based architects were also responsible for the conversion of The Nelson Rooms, a former Victorian Gymnasium, in Glendower Street, Monmouth into three apartments, as well as numerous other projects including the interior for Cardiff’s Park Plaza Hotel.

The hall was built in 1902, designed by architect William Tanner and in 1998, gained grade II listing status.

Restoration is already underway on the building, which has been empty for a number of years. The entrance hall, marble columns, stair cases and original Terrazzo floor tiling have all been restored to their original grandeur.

The decision states the building work must begin within five years.

The development will include 21 parking spaces and bike racks for the new residents.

Councillor David Fouweather of the Allt-yr-yn ward said it was the “perfect solution” for the Allt-yr-Yn ward.

He said: “We are delighted that the Shire Hall is being put to good use and that it’s going to be high quality apartments with adequate parking too.

“Anything that brings older buildings back to life is good for the city.”

Imperial Property Services, Cardiff are selling the flats, which currently start at £70,000.