A decaying portable building is set to be replaced with a community venue.

The refreshed facility will be built at Somerton Primary School in Newport after securing planning approval.

The new development will serve pupils and local residents both during school hours and once lessons have finished.

Located on Hawthorne Fosse in the Alway area, the building will increase the school’s facilities.

The existing temporary structure will make way for a bespoke, single-storey development featuring timber cladding and a flat roof.

The plans for the 10-metre-long building were submitted by G. Draper.

Newport City Council approved the application, noting that the scheme would deliver modern multi-purpose spaces while having minimal impact on the surrounding area.

Planning officers pointed out that the chosen position would have restricted impact on neighbouring properties.

No playing fields will be lost, as the development occupies the same footprint as the previous building.

The nearest house is situated more than 30 metres from the location.

Highway safety concerns were resolved after the Local Highways Authority confirmed the replacement would not create extra vehicle or foot traffic.

Existing parking and access arrangements will remain unchanged.

The building’s timber frame and large aluminium-framed windows were considered appropriate for the setting.

Officers stated that the design would not harm the visual appearance of the school grounds or the wider locality.

Environmental improvements form part of the planning permission.

Bird boxes and wildflowers will be planted in the landscaped section in front of the building.

The council’s ecological officer endorsed the biodiversity measures.

Flood risk was also reviewed.

Officers explained that although a thin strip of land on the southern side has potential for surface water flooding, the application site and access routes are not affected.

Existing hardstanding will be retained.

One objection was received from a local resident who raised concerns about reckless driving and behaviour.

Officers determined that the new building would not lead to any significant increase in crime or antisocial behaviour.

The building will contain an open learning zone, assembly area, toilet, kitchen facilities, and storage space.

Previous improvements at Somerton Primary include security fencing added in 2006 and an external play shelter built in 2009.

Biodiversity measures must be carried out before the building can be used, as required by the approval conditions.