A RUGBY team's former clubhouse is planned to be turned into a 17-bedroom house which could help reduce homelessness.

The former Walpole Hotel was the home of Llanhilleth Rugby Football Club for nearly 37 years until they moved to a new location in 2012.

Now the derelict building in Commercial Road, Llanhilleth, could be turned into a 17-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) and a manager's two bedroom flat under plans submitted to Blaenau Gwent council.

The proposal would provide "affordable accommodation", with private bedrooms and shared bathroom, kitchen and dining facilities.

A planning statement says low cost accommodation is "badly needed" in the area.

The proposals would also renovate an out of use building which has been "a long-standing part of the local community."

"Organisations such as The Wallich are seeking suitable housing for tenants who may have a history of problems, as well as Tai Calon, a social housing association who manage over 6000 properties," a planning statement says.

"Both demonstrate the need for good quality, long term affordable housing, which is especially important for those living on low incomes.

"Working with organisations like Corner Stone would allow the proposal to be used to reduce homelessness in the area."

Changes to the welfare system and limited one-bedroom accommodation has created a need to develop shared housing in the borough - particularly for single people under the age of 35 - a council report says.

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The plans would see a manager live in a two-bedroom flat, to allow on-site caretaking and management of the premises.

Bus stops and Llanhilleth train station are located nearby, mitigating the need for parking.

"[The proposal] would renovate the building, whilst maintaining the aesthetic of the exterior to fit within the local built context," the planning statement says.

"The scheme would provide the area with 17 affordable housing rooms that are high in demand."