Plans to demolish the former Long Bridge baths and pavillion in Risca and replace it with new changing rooms have been given the green light.

The new changing rooms will have an accessible ramp and stairs, as well as new car parking arrangements.

The move has been given the go-ahead by Caerphilly County Borough Council.

The current building, which is set to be demolished, was previously used as swimming baths. The former open-air baths are not in use, but the sports changing facilities are used by local sports teams.

A report on the planning application says the existing changing rooms are “not currently fit for purpose as a result of structural and functional problems that cannot be addressed by further reasonable investment in the building”.

The replacement changing rooms would therefore accommodate the existing sports teams that use the playing fields for matches.

The council report says: “It is not considered that the visual appearance of the building would result in any undue harm to the overall character and appearance of the surrounding area.”

Concerns were raised by residents over the nearby Bridge Street.

Several residents questioned whether any traffic calming measures would be put in place, however this is not something that would be considered by a planning committee and would need to be considered outside of the application.