AN ICONIC building at the former Caerleon campus will be retained and converted into flats under new plans for the future of the site revealed today.

University of South Wales (USW) has launched a 28-day public consultation today (Monday) on a planning application for the redevelopment of the former college site at Caerleon.

Under the plans, up to 263 new homes would be built at the site with former student halls and teaching buildings being demolished.

The original Grade II listed college building will be “at the heart of the scheme”, continuing to provide a visual landmark with its character retained.

University bosses say the building would be converted into 42 flats, with its existing drive enhanced to provide a tree lined corridor.

Other heritage buildings, the T J Webley, Ty Hywel and Felthorpe House will be converted into six homes, while the College Road gate piers will be kept.

The Kegie building would be converted for mixed business use under the plans, providing an opportunity for new business start-ups.

However the current sports centre would be scrapped as the university has been unable to find a new owner. But the existing rugby pitch would be retained.

A USW spokesman said: “The aim is for the development to provide both jobs and a long-term future benefit for the Caerleon community by providing housing for all ages, including young families, and space for businesses or public services.

“Further public consultation is the next step in the process leading to the redevelopment of the site.

“We hope the feedback will help inform the outline planning application so that the site has certainty and a secure future that benefits the community and retains the historic buildings.

“USW conducted a full-scale consultation with the community last year, and much of that feedback is reflected in this new planning application, informed by detailed expert environmental, transport and infrastructure surveys as part of the pre-planning process.

“Our commitment to a sustainable university across the region, including in Newport, is absolutely unchanged. We recognise the importance of the regeneration of the city to the future of the region, and we see the university as a huge part of that.”

The university plans for the development to be completed by 2025, based on a buyer being found and building starting next year.

The university has said an independent traffic assessment found the development will see an overall reduction in traffic flow, while infrastructure in the area can cope with the increase in population.

Consultation documents are available to view at caerleon.site or at the security lodge at the entrance to the former campus site during normal working hours from Monday to Friday.