CONSTRUCTION work on the multi-million pound redevelopment project in Ringland is set to begin this spring.

The regeneration project will see the Ringland Shopping Centre relocated to face the Milton Court roundabout, and 158 new homes built on its current site.

Newport City Homes said the project will bring a “new identity” to the area.

The first stage of the development – the 56-home £7.5 million Cot Farm scheme – was completed in June 2021.

South Wales Argus: The shops and empty homes at Ringland Circle.The shops and empty homes at Ringland Circle.

And last summer, the Friendship Inn – which has been plagued with vandalism and suspected arson attacks since its closure – was demolished.

Rachel George, head of regeneration at Newport City Homes, said surveying and diversion work would be taking place until March, with construction beginning when that had been completed.

“Work is progressing well on our exciting regeneration of the wider Ringland area, where we’re building 158 new homes and relocating the shopping centre, with our contractors, Lovell,” she said.

South Wales Argus: The site of the former Friendship Inn.The site of the former Friendship Inn. (Image: Newsquest)

“In order to get ready for the main work that will begin in spring 2023, we have been busy designing and conducting survey work in and around the Ringland site.

“We’ve drilled holes to check the ground for foundation design, surveyed trees, surveyed unoccupied premises, and checked the routes of existing drainage and services.

South Wales Argus: Surveying and diversion work is taking place at the Ringland Shopping Centre until March.Surveying and diversion work is taking place at the Ringland Shopping Centre until March. (Image: Newsquest)

“Our goal from the survey is to make sure we know where the current routes are. Using this information, we can arrange service diversions around the new buildings and plan for new connections to serve the new residential and retail complexes.

“Further surveys and diversion work will take place between January and March, and construction will begin in spring 2023.

South Wales Argus: Homes on the Cot Farm Estate, the first phase of the redevelopment.Homes on the Cot Farm Estate, the first phase of the redevelopment.

“There are plans to divert, lower, and cap off water, electricity, gas, and telecommunications supplies that cross the site.

“These works will be completed by the relevant authority/organisation. We know it’s vital to keep the work organised to cause as little disruption as possible for local residents.”

Ms George added the development at Mountbatten Close – which includes 12 affordable flats and 12 semi-detached affordable homes – had been delayed and was now expected to be completed in the summer.