WORK is continuing on Newport City Homes' multi-million pound regeneration project in Ringland.

The housing association hopes to transform the area around Ringland shopping centre into a vibrant, lively community hub, while reducing anti-social behaviour and deprivation.

A series of consultation events have been held to gather the views of residents and retailers in the area, with ideas for the regeneration project including regenerating the shopping centre so it is more modern and accessible.

The executive director of operations at Newport City Homes, Robert Lynbeck, said the first meeting has been very successful.

He said: “We will continue to consult monthly with a steering group consisting of residents, private home owners, shop owners and partners to create a master plan.”

As part of the wider Ringland regeneration programme, two blocks of maisonettes in Ringland Circle and Cot Farm Circle were demolished last year after being deemed no longer fit for purpose.

Newport City Homes are now in discussion with retailers and residents regarding plans for the site.

Resident Paul Blandford said: “The project has a substantial amount of funding. This is really progressive for our local area, showing the possibility of what Ringland could be.”

The investment is set to play a vital role in the redevelopment of Ringland, with a steering group of local residents, retailers and representatives from Newport City Homes helping to determine how this substantial investment is spent.