Plans to establish a creative hub featuring artist studios, work spaces and an outdoor terrace at Le Pub on Newport’s main shopping street have received approval from local planning authorities.

The initiative seeks to bring into public use sections of the property that are currently not accessible to visitors.

The premises previously housed offices for the South Wales Argus publication and has served as Le Pub, a well-known venue for live performances in the city, for almost ten years.

The scheme involves converting the first level into a reservable function area, alongside a newly constructed terrace positioned at the rear of the structure.

Office facilities for freelancers and small businesses, conference spaces and individual creative studios would occupy the building’s second and third levels.

Visualisations of the completed project demonstrate how the areas could accommodate hot-desking arrangements or host functions including art displays and stand-up comedy performances.

Planning officials at the city council assessed the plans in a submitted report, concluding that the scheme represented an appropriate redevelopment of a prominent structure that would enhance the commercial district by expanding available facilities.

The report stated that the intended utilisation of the upper storeys met acceptable standards for city centre locations and would make a positive contribution to the area’s energetic atmosphere.

During the statutory consultation period, no complaints were lodged by nearby residents or businesses.

The planning department issued consent for the development, with certain conditions attached to the approval.