Public toilet block to be turned into cafe

A disused block of public toilets in Newport is set to be transformed into a new cafe. The toilets in Caerleon Road have been out of use for a “substantial” period of time and the venture is expected to create two jobs, according to planning documents filed with Newport council. The council's planning department has granted the applicant, Zena Al-Ibrahim of MS Property Maintenance, permission to overhaul the block of toilets and provide seating both indoors and outdoors. A planning report shows the application received three objections, which mainly focused on concerns a new cafe would be one too many for the area and lead to increased competition. But council planners downplayed concerns around an oversaturation of coffee shops in the neighbourhood. They concluded the development would not “demonstrably affect the vitality and viability” of other businesses in the area. The council said the balance of retailers versus cafes and restaurants would remain “acceptable”. It also noted the proposals would bring back into use a vacant plot. The plans show the site will be redeveloped to include a kitchen, service counter, and customer toilets. The outdoor seating area will be covered by a retractable canopy. Mrs Al-Ibrahim was previously granted permission for a bigger cafe on the site in 2024. But her supporting statement explains she now wants to open a smaller venture that fits in the existing building’s footprint. Her planning agent, Dreamspace, described the plans as having a “practical and sustainable design” which “respects the character of the area”. Get daily breaking news updates on your phone by joining our WhatsApp community here . We occasionally treat members to special offers, promotions and ads from us and our partners. See our Privacy Notice .