THE RELOCATION of Ringland Library into a new neighbourhood hub is set to move a step closer this week.

Newport City Council's planning committee will decide on plans to demolish the existing library building in Ringland Circle at a meeting on Wednesday.

The plans would see alterations made to Ringland Community Centre to create a new multi-use hub, where the library would be located.

Requiring £1.7m of investment, the hub would offer access to public computers, voluntary services, cafe facilities and room hire.

It would be the first neighbourhood hub in the city, and if successful, the model could be rolled out elsewhere across Newport.

Beyond the demolition of the library building, proposed changes include a small extension to create a new main entrance to the community building.

Community based artwork will decorate the facades of the building, while existing windows and doors will be replaced.

Planning officers have recommended the plans are approved at a meeting on Wednesday.

"Although the octagonal library building is proposed to be demolished, the library facility will not be lost and will be incorporated within the hub building," a council report says.

"Overall, the aim is to expand the proportion of space accessible to the public by reducing office space whilst updating it to modern standards," it adds.

"The centre will continue to offer a creche space and changing rooms for local sports teams."

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Newport council revealed plans to create neighbourhood hubs as part of a new way of delivering community services across the city last year.

The Ringland hub is planned to serve east Newport, and could be the first of four across the city if the scheme is expanded.

Disadvantages of the current model include the sustainability of the buildings and ‘fragmentation’ of services, a council report says.

The neighbourhood hub model is expected to improve ICT facilities and save the council money.

"The existing [library] building is of no architectural merit and the proposed works will improve the condition and appearance of an existing community building within this area, whilst providing an exciting and interactive external landscape for the community to enjoy, particularly children," the planning report adds.