A FORMER guest house in Stow Hill is being turned into supported-living accommodation for people with learning difficulties and mental health issues.

The house, on Caerau Crescent, will have supported living amenities for six people and will be managed by Housing Association Melin Homes.

Permission for the change was granted by Newport City Council in a planning committee meeting held on Wednesday, January 5.

Councillor James Clarke, who represents Malpas, said: “Melin Homes have a good reputation and supported housing is needed.”

Cllr Clarke added: “I am fully behind this, it is a good use of a property.”

The new support home will have six bedrooms with ensuite for the residents, one staff bedroom with an ensuite, four living areas, one kitchen, one office, one laundry room, and an additional bathroom.

Local ward councillor for Stow Hill, Miqdad Al-Nuaimi, raised concerns that the development would be a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO).

It has since been confirmed by the council’s planning department that the home will be for those needing care and support – and not a HMO.

According to the report presented to the committee, Melin Homes is expected to receive a social housing grant for the development because it meets a pressing need for this type of accommodation.

Cllr John Guy, who represents Alway, also expressed his support for the application during the meeting.

Originally, a large copper beach tree was set to be removed from the site, but this has since been retracted following an objection from the tree officer and a neighbour.

The tree is now protected by a Tree Protection Order (TPO).