Demolition proposed for former WHSmith building in Newport
A new public space and route between Stow Hill and Commercial Street would replace Newport’s former WHSmith building under plans going to cabinet on Tuesday 15 September.
The meeting at 16:00 will consider demolition of 166-168 Commercial Street in principle. No funding source has been identified for demolition or the subsequent public-space works, and the report seeks no funding allocation.
The council bought the vacant property in March using Shared Prosperity Fund money. Its report records asbestos, unsafe finishes and basement flooding. The council’s appraisal concludes reuse would not be commercially viable.
Business rates alone cost approximately £23,000 a year. Demolition costs remain unconfirmed, pending structural surveys of the building and neighbouring properties. The adjoining Wildings building is listed.
Background and supporting figures
Where this sits
Cabinet is asked to approve demolition in principle. No funding has been identified for demolition or the new public space.
Business rates cost approximately £23,000 a year. Demolition costs remain unconfirmed pending surveys.
A report to the following week's cabinet recommends demolition and restoring the land for public use.
Cabinet previously asked for an assessment of all options although demolition was preferred.
If approved, funding would still need to be identified and secured for an open space and active travel route.