WORKS which would see a new open space in the city centre have begun.

An ambitious set of plans have seen Newport City Council demolish buildings – including Riley snooker hall – to create a gateway between Commercial Street and Kingsway.

The gateway – which will be opposite St Paul’s Church and will be called St Paul’s Walk – will be landscaped and will provide a “pleasant new” pedestrian route.

Once completed, people will be able to use it as a short-cut to Newport Centre and the Dolman Theatre.

It is also hoped that, in time, the open space could be used for staging events.

The works are being carried out as part of the Welsh Government-funded vibrant and viable places programme.

In addition to the planned open space works, other schemes are taking place throughout the city centre.

Properties, including the historic National Buildings, have undergone renovation to create improved shopping and business units and a project to improve a row of buildings opposite Mariner’s Green, including the Alma pub, is near to completion.

There are also plans to demolish some properties around the Park Square car park entrance to create flats and improve pedestrian access.

On the opposite side of the road, proposals to demolish some of Emlyn Walk and create a public square have also been approved.

Cllr John Richards, who is Newport City Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and investment, said: “While Friars Walk has made a huge difference, we recognised that other parts of the city centre also needed some attention and we have used the VVP programme to help businesses make enhancement to their properties.

“It has already made an impact and, when all the projects are completed – by the council, private and third sector – they will make a significant difference for the benefit of businesses, residents and visitors.”

The work to create the open space is due to be completed later in the spring.