Newport City Council has given the green light to an application for internal safety improvements involving asbestos removal at Newport Civic Centre.
The local authority has approved listed building consent for putting in 82 ceiling access panels throughout the building’s floors. The structure, a Grade II* listed property on Godfrey Road, is covered by application reference 26/0110.
The project involves essential fire-stopping measures and asbestos elimination. The council’s decision must be forwarded to Cadw, which handles historic environment matters for the Welsh Government.
These new and replacement access panels will be sleek metal units finished in white powder coating. They will be positioned primarily in service corridors at the rear of the building, which retain less historical significance compared to prominent areas such as the main entrance hall, council chamber, mayor’s private room, and former magistrates’ courtrooms.
Those involved state the changes will have minimal effect on the visual character and design of the interiors dating from the 1930s and 1960s.
A heritage impact assessment accompanying the application indicates the work will enable the council to fulfill its legal and ethical responsibilities regarding fire protection, provide necessary access for asbestos removal and fire compartmentation, and prepare the building for future service modifications.
Qualified contractors will create the new openings, fit structural support members, and install fire-rated access panels rated for two hours once asbestos surveys and removal are finished.
The Civic Centre was originally conceived by Thomas Cecil Howitt following a nationwide design competition. Construction commenced in 1937 but was not finished until 1964 due to wartime interruptions.
The structure features a U-shaped floor plan, Portland stone cladding, and a clock tower that dominates the city center. The entrance hall contains 1960s murals by Hans Feibusch depicting the county’s history.
The council’s Principal Heritage Officer determined the scheme would maintain the special character of the Grade II* building. The officer observed that existing corridors already contain various access panels and are finished with straightforward post-war materials.
The approval includes requirements for exact positioning of the new panels, a method statement for the opening works, specifications for current and proposed ceiling structures, and limitations on any heat-generating work like cutting or welding.
The council’s decision document characterizes the ceiling panel work as “relatively minor” but significant as part of ongoing investment in the Civic Centre, which remains operational as administrative offices for the council.
Officials state the new panels and safety measures will help ensure the building’s continued viability as Newport’s civic and administrative hub.