NEWS that the Welsh Government wants to see part of the former Caerleon campus of the University of South Wales given listed building status is to be welcomed.

This newspaper has argued consistently that the site, now closed, should not just become a housing estate.

Indeed, we have suggested time and again over the last few years that the campus would be the perfect site for a replacement for Caerleon Comprehensive School.

Such a move would still leave enough land for a scaled-down yet still significant housing development.

Sadly our idea has attracted little or no support from the powers-that-be.

We have also said the minimum requirement for the iconic former training college building at the site would be for its facade to be retained in any development.

There is no requirement for this to happen without the building being listed by Cadw.

Now Welsh Government minister Ken Skates says he is recommending that such a status is granted to the building.

While this does not guarantee it will happen, as the final decision rests with Cadw, it certainly makes it highly likely.

And if the 1912 building is to be retained it will be a step in the right direction and a cause for celebration.