THE COUNCIL RESPONSE...
Here is Newport City Council’s response to the findings of the Centre for Cities report...
“The effects of the pandemic on our retailers cannot be underestimated and the aftershocks will undoubtedly be felt for some years to come. However, the number of vacant retail units in the city centre does not define the economic position of Newport.
“There are many contributing factors – some which are specific to Newport, others that are being experienced nationally such as changes in consumer habits, increased use of online services, and the collapse of major high street chains such as Debenhams.
“There is also strong evidence that to ensure the long-term success of city and town centres, there must be a balance of leisure, residential, hospitality, business and retail. Projects such as a new leisure facility, flexible office and development spaces, modern living and independent shopping are already cultivating this healthy mix in Newport.
“This assessment also does not appear to differentiate between vacant units and units currently being refurbished or redeveloped. Some of the most considerable and high-profile projects that are under way within the city centre, such as the transformation of Newport Market, the regeneration of Market Arcade and the Chartist Tower development, would all be captured in this count of ‘vacant’ units.”
Councillor Jane Mudd, leader of the council, commented: “Before the pandemic hit, the city centre was a priority for the city council and its partners, and it continues to be.
“The support that has been given to businesses during the pandemic is unrivalled – we have worked very closely with our businesses and helped them both financially and with assistance and advice. Monetary support alone has reached tens of millions of pounds, but the relationships, hard work and dedication of all those that have fought for our city centre and our traders is unquantifiable. As the city looks to its recovery, an attractive and successful city centre remains at the heart of our major plans.”
Newport’s elected Business Improvement District
Newport also has a designated business improvement district (BID), voted for by businesses. The BID brings together business representatives with partners such as the council and police and focuses on a partnership approach to improving the city centre.
Key priorities for the BID include creating a safe, secure and welcoming Newport.
One initiative has delivered a team of fully trained and licensed ambassadors who work closely with all BID members and the local police force, providing a visible and reassuring presence on the streets.
The BID is also leading on plans to deliver a programme of city-centre events and more collaboration between city-centre businesses.
Partnership working is also key to creating a welcoming environment, and much work is being done with the police, hospitality and other key organisations including accessing government funding for improvement projects.