The future of Newport's civic centre could be decided in a new review of the city council's office buildings. Cabinet members have agreed to spend £250,000 on a new strategy for its various offices, including its headquarters.
The civic centre is a listed building containing the council chamber and serves as the base for many administrative functions, but in recent years has faced an uncertain future. It is currently closed on Fridays for cost-cutting purposes.
Previous Relocation Plans Shelved
A relocation plan was previously considered and then shelved by decision-makers. The council stated in mid-2025 that it had "no plans to" move its headquarters to another location. However, some critics argue the civic centre is underused.
Freedom of Information Act disclosures last year showed its running costs reached £1.05 million in 2024, with typically between 200 and 350 staff working daily in a building containing around 380 office rooms.
Political Reactions
Conservative councillor David Fouweather said a move could save money and that encouraging more people to return to the office would provide a "better service" than working from home. Independent councillor Mark Howells also called for staff to return to improve customer service.
However, the council has defended its home-working policies, citing "clear benefits around recruitment and retention, congestion and climate change."
Additional Expenditure Approved
The £250,000 office strategy will be funded using the council's reserves, following cabinet approval. Members also approved a £750,000 purchase of a property to serve as an additional children's home, as well as the use of reserves to fund £631,000 of work on developing a clearer understanding of key drivers of demand and cost within adult social care, and £40,000 for a review of the council's fees and charges.
