A DERELICT Pontypool building is to be renovated and turned into the new headquarters of the Gwent Association for the Blind.

At the moment, the group is based on a New Inn industrial estate but thanks to a £250,000 grant from the Bradbury Foundation Trust it will move into Park Cottages, a run-down building bordering Pontypool Park.

Torfaen council, owners of the building which sits next to Pontypool Museum at the gateway to the park, have agreed to help Gwent Association for the Blind by granting a long lease to the charity to allow it to occupy and refurbish the premises.

The group chose Pontypool as their new base as it has transport links with towns throughout Gwent. This will make it easier for blind and visually impaired people who have to use buses and trains.

The centre, which at the moment attracts around 2,000 visitors to New Inn every year, is also bringing 16 members of staff to Pontypool.

Pam Dennis, from Gwent Association for the Blind, said: "People from all over Gwent will come to Ponty-pool because it has got a brilliant transport system.

"Many of our visitors have guide dogs so once they've been here they can go for a walk in Pontypool Park or shop in the town. This is why we chose Pontypool.

"I am very grateful for all the work that Torfaen council has put in.

"It's an exciting time for us and we can't wait to move to out new home."

It is hoped that Park Cottages will be fully renovated by spring 2005 for the group to move in.

Councillor John Marshall, executive member for the environment, said: "This is double good news for Pontypool.

"Firstly, this large grant means that Park Cottages will be converted back to their former glory.

"Secondly, the town will enjoy an increase in the number of visitors who will shop and enjoy Pontypool once they've been to the centre."