Newport, a city in South Wales, has recently been in the spotlight for being named as the worst city centre in the UK for empty shop units. This news has caused quite a stir among the residents and business owners of the city. However, some have now hit back at these claims and have shed light on the positive developments taking place in Newport.
The report, published by the Local Data Company, stated that Newport has the highest percentage of empty shops in the UK, with a staggering 28.3% of its city centre shops being vacant. This news has been met with disappointment and concern by many, as it reflects poorly on the city’s economy and its ability to attract businesses.
But amidst all the negative headlines, there are those who are determined to showcase the progress that Newport has made in recent years. One such person is the city’s council leader, Councillor Jane Mudd. She believes that the report does not accurately represent the current state of Newport’s city centre. In fact, she argues that the city has seen a significant increase in investment and development, which has led to a rise in the number of businesses and job opportunities.
Councillor Mudd points out that Newport has been undergoing a major transformation in recent years, with several multi-million-pound projects being undertaken to revitalize the city. This includes the Friars Walk shopping centre, which opened in 2015 and has since become a popular destination for shoppers. The council has also invested in improving the city’s infrastructure, such as the new railway station and the new bus station, making it easier for people to access the city centre.
Moreover, the council has been actively working to attract new businesses to the city. This has resulted in the opening of several new shops, restaurants, and cafes in the city centre. The council has also been successful in securing funding for various projects, such as the new International Convention Centre Wales, which is set to open in 2019. This will not only bring in more visitors to the city but also create job opportunities for the locals.
The council’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as many business owners have also come forward to defend Newport’s reputation. They argue that the city has a lot to offer, with its rich history, beautiful scenery, and a growing arts and culture scene. They also highlight the city’s strategic location, with easy access to major cities like Cardiff and Bristol, making it an ideal place for businesses to set up shop.
One such business owner is Sarah Jones, who runs a successful boutique in the city centre. She believes that the negative perception of Newport is unfair and does not reflect the reality on the ground. “I have been running my business here for over five years, and I have seen the city grow and evolve. There is a real sense of community here, and I have a loyal customer base who appreciate the unique offerings of Newport,” she says.
Another factor that has contributed to the city’s progress is the growing number of events and festivals being held in Newport. These events not only bring in visitors but also showcase the city’s potential and attract investors. The annual Newport Food Festival, for example, has become a popular event, drawing in thousands of people to the city centre.
In conclusion, while the recent report may have painted a bleak picture of Newport’s city centre, it is important to acknowledge the positive developments that are taking place. The council’s efforts, along with the support of local businesses, have helped to change the face of the city and attract new opportunities. With more projects in the pipeline, Newport is on its way to becoming a thriving and vibrant city centre, and the future looks bright. So let’s not dwell on the past, but instead, look forward to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for Newport.
