NEWPORT’S historic Tredegar House began a new chapter in its history yesterday after it was officially handed over to the National Trust.

Wales’ largest conservation charity will take over responsibility for the 17th century house and park with a 50-year lease.

The building, parts of which date back to the early 1500s, will open its doors to the public with a new interpretation of the history of the house on April 4.

A unique ‘Housewarming’ event will follow on June 24, allowing open free-flow access to the much-loved house for the first time in its history.

Justin Albert, director of the National Trust in Wales, said the charity aimed to build on the work already undertaken by the authority.

He said: “We want Tredegar House to be a place that all Newport’s people feel a great pride in and show off as part of the exciting changes taking place in the city.”

Council leader Matthew Evans described yesterday’s handover as a momentous occasion and one which would ensure the future of the house for generations to come.

He said: “I know the National Trust will treasure this Newport gem on behalf of the city while introducing it to a new audience around the world.

“I look forward to what promises to be a long and fruitful partnership which will be of benefit to the Trust, the city and, most importantly, Tredegar House.”

The charity has pledged to carry out around £4.5 million worth of repairs and improvements to enhance visitors’ experiences.

This will include improvements to the children’s play ground, the re-opening of the orchard gardens, and restoration the historic walled gardens to their former glory.

The Trust hopes to boost visitor numbers to 100,000 a year, which is estimated to benefit the local economy by an extra £1.47 million.

The council still owns the building and Newport residents and visitors will still have free access to the park, children’s play area and the council-run library.