SHIPPING containers could be converted into one bedroom flats as part of a new project to tackle homelessness in Newport.

Charity Amazing Grace Spaces, which is the first charity of its kind Wales, wants to convert shipping containers into 285 sq ft homes with a bedroom, a toilet and a living room with kitchen area.

Charity’s director Stuart Johnson, who has worked with homeless people for 25 years, said: “People need accommodation.

“If you have lost everything, including your family, it’s so difficult to get £1,000, which is what most people need before moving into a new house.

“Not everyone has that kind of money.

“The average rent for a one-bedroom flat in Newport is about £400, we’re are looking at renting our flats for £260.”

At the moment, only one shipping container has been converted. They’re aiming to convert a further 10 of them, which would cost around £200,000.

The charity is launching at 2pm on Friday, September 23 at St Paul’s Church, in Newport. They want to find other organisations who would like to work with them on this project and help raise funds.

“It’s about offering affordable accommodation,” said Mr Johnson. “We know there’s a need for it, we know that very well.

“These homes are for people that are struggling financially. It could be for people who have been affected by the bedroom tax, for people who have lost their homes or for young people.

“There are so many options.”

They are currently looking for grounds to house the converted units and, although the containers could be based anywhere, they would like it to be in Newport.

“It’s something very different, it’s the first of its kind in Wales,” said Mr Johnson.

Mr Johnson and his wife, Caroline, set up Night Shelter in Newport, where a group of churches in the city open their doors to welcome in the city’s homeless from the streets during the coldest months of the year.