On behalf of Starburst UK Ltd, DPP has secured full planning permission for the first phase of the redevelopment of the former Orb Steelworks, Newport to create new employment units.
For over a century the site accommodated a major steel-making complex which during the 1920’s employed over 2,000 workers. The former steel works, which closed in 2020, has since been vacant, contributing nothing to the local economy and environment. The approved scheme represents a major investment aimed at kick-starting the worthwhile regeneration and beneficial re-use of the entire Orb Site.
As part of the first phase, four new terraces will provide a total floorspace of 7,464m2 of employment floorspace which have the scope for sub-division subject to market demand. The scheme will also deliver enhanced connectivity across the site and beyond, with a new designated pedestrian/cycleway link, connecting the Phase 1 development with the adjacent Lysaght residential development to the north. Other improvements include a new footpath on Stephenson Street together with the provision of a new sustainable urban drainage system and associated landscaping.
The project team, led by DPP, worked closely with Newport City Council to overcome not only traffic and air quality-related considerations but also flood-related concerns from NRW. DPP are proud to have led the project team and provided strategic advice alongside HydroGeo in successfully addressing TAN 15 justification tests. The team have also satisfied ecology-related considerations associated with the wider site’s location adjacent to the River Usk Special Area of Conservation and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Speaking about the consent, Thomas Quille, Senior Planner at DPP, said:
This is a transformational scheme to re-energise a key site within Newport which will drive employment opportunities and prosperity within the city. We are looking forward to working closely with Starburst in delivering future phases of the site’s wider redevelopment to secure a great new employment asset for the city.
Image: BBC
