A DAD has spoken of how he hopes plans to redevelop a former transport yard in Newport into new apartments and round-the-clock support accommodation for youngsters with learning disabilities which could help his son and others.

An outline application to build up to 50 flats, assisted living homes and a care in the community facility on the former Robert Price transport yard in Corporation Road was approved by Newport City Council's planning committee at a meeting on Wednesday.

A small drive-thru coffee shop facing Corporation Road is also included in the plans, with all matters reserved other than access.

South Wales Argus:

An artist's impression of the plans

Nigel Phillips, with his wife Sue, of Lynwood Investments, are behind the proposals which aim to help their son, Lewis, who has a learning disability and severe epilepsy.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Phillips said the family have been unable to find a suitable home for their 20-year-old son in the South Wales area.

Lewis currently attends Young Epilepsy, a charity which provides specialist services includes a school and college, but Mr Phillips said travelling to the centre in Lingfield, Surrey, is proving 'challenging' for the family.

"Homes that are suitable for Lewis are few and far between," said Mr Phillips.

"While we have visited many in the South Wales area, none have yet been able to respond to all of his needs.

"Our hope is to create a long term home for Lewis locally."

OTHER NEWS: Shocking footage as terrifying hit-and-run is caught on CCTV

Headteachers urge Blaenau Gwent councillors to change budget proposals

The aim is to create "an exemplar" care in the community facility for five to six people, along with 12 assisted living homes.

The development could create 23 part-time jobs, with around 12 posts dedicated to the care home, under the plans.

Mr Phillips said he hopes the development will be "an attractive addition to Newport's skyline."

And the application also earned the praise of councillors on the planning committee.

Cllr David Fouweather it would "enhance the area tremendously."

"It will provide some much-needed specialist care facilities in the area and also some quality apartments," he added.

And Cllr James Clarke said he supported the plans "both from my heart and my head."

Planning officers had recommended approval, despite concerns from Natural Resources Wales about flooding on part of the site.

However Geraint Roberts, from the council's planning team, said the risk was limited and confined to a car parking area, adding there were substantial benefits to the scheme.

Onsite parking for up to 75 vehicles will be provided for residential use while 14 spaces have been earmarked for the coffee shop under the plans.