A LISTED Newport building, which was left in ruins by an arson attack, was officially reopened yesterday.

The Grade-II rustic teahouse in Belle Vue Park, which was badly damaged in the attack in August 2010, has risen from the ashes thanks to the work of specialist contractors.

The 100-year-old building was officially re-opened by Newport mayor Margaret Cornelious and cabinet member for leisure and culture Mike Hamilton following around £70,000 of work paid for by insurance.

This was watched by children on the eco-school councils at St Woolos Primary School, Gaer Junior School and Ysgol Gymraeg Casnewydd, who were invited to the event and enjoyed refreshments in the building.

Cllr Cornelious said the tea house added to the wealth, charm and character of the park.

Cllr Hamilton added: “It was extremely upsetting when this charming structure was so badly damaged in a wanton criminal act but it is fantastic to see it restored to its former glory.”

It has taken around 18 months for the teahouse to get to this stage, with Newport firm Davlan Construction appointed to carry out the work.

Architectural technician Andrew Herrington said: “There was very little of it left. All of the roof was gone and most of the arch heads had burnt out.”

As it is a listed building, the council had to follow strict guidelines including using specified paint and fire proofing treatment.

Mr Herrington said the fireproofing, which had to be done by a company in Castleford, changes the structure of the wood and makes it last longer.

Special cutters had to be made for the corbels, and the timber, which was all cut by hand, had to be sent to Kent for its initial coat of paint.

The timber was then painted twice by hand with a final touch-up at 7.30am yesterday morning.

The work was carried out at the joinery and on-site by six men, who were guided by carpenter Joe Freeman.