SNeptemeber 2w013 pThe officiral ntew spaMper ofa Newtpotrt Ceity Crous ncil Changing council Inside... services in Newport Every day, aims to deliver the best possible service to its residents. We have a clear mission, “Improving People’s Lives – providing the best affordable services”, which guides our activity to deliver the ambition set out in the corporate plan – to make Newport a better place to live, work and visit. However, the council is facing an £254 million budget unprecedented challenge –a in 2013/14 significantly reduced budget combined Newport Food Festival – special pull with an increasing demand for, and bin schools out programme expectations of, council services. collections In simple terms, the council can’t afford to carry on doing all of the repairing £220 million budget roads things it does currently and we want leisure by 2017 your views on this challenge. centres That’s why the council launched its care Prospectus for Change this summer. homes food hygiene ? This is an ambitious scheme of work checks ? to ensure that the council can continue to improve people’s lives by providing the best affordable services. City centre It’s also the start of an open and honest regeneration – conversation with the people of changes to bus stops Newport on which services the council provides in future years. We want to start by explaining how we get our money to deliver your Just some of the ... but how will they services. For every £100 we spend, £80 services we look in the future? comes from Welsh Government grant, deliver now... £12 comes from your council tax and we need to plan properly for the money as you do today and this would affordable. the remaining £8 comes from charges future. In this financial year (April have an impact on what you would be The council knows a reduced we make for services or other grants. 2013 - March 2014) we have £254m able to do. This is exactly the position budget of this scale will inevitably This shows how dependent we are on to spend on public services across the Newport City Council faces. result in fewer services being provided, the Welsh Government grant. So any city. By 2017 this will reduce to £220m To meet this reality we must think fewer staff being employed and fewer New city cut in this grant means we have to – a 13 per cent cut from this year. carefully about what we have to do, buildings being occupied. play areas totally rethink the type of services Newport City Council has a legal what we have to stop doing, how we do There are some things that the currently provided. requirement to deliver a balanced things and who we do them for, and we council is required to provide by law. Everyone knows that money for budget every year; we just cannot set a want to share this serious challenge These are called statutory services and public services is being cut. So far local budget that we cannot pay for. with you. we will have to find a way to deliver government in Wales hasn’t been Therefore with less money from Welsh A budget reduced by £34m means these. Everything else is a choice, a affected as badly as councils in Government the council is being that the council has to have a clear choice that we want to be informed by England who have already faced the forced to make even more cuts. view of what services it can provide to listening to the people of Newport. brunt of the UK/Westminister public Imagine if your income was continue improving people's lives. And So, imagine facing a cut of 13 per services austerity programme. reduced in a similar manner. You for those services we continue to cent to your household income. Where However, this is about to change and wouldn’t be able to spend as much provide, they must be the best but would you decide to save money? Continued on page 2 Recycle your metal – resident competition

Recycle for Newport – pop me in your blue recycling box Council has already made Leader’s message considerable savings In the first year of this Continued from front page administration we were faced with making Cut back on leisure activities, put off The council is working hard to will be heard, read and considered as decorating your house, stop buying meet the financial challenges it faces, part of the process. extremely difficult decisions books or sell the car? That is the reality using the Prospectus for Change to On 12 December Newport City in the face of tough facing Newport City Council over the deliver a new way of working, but we Council’s cabinet will consider financial challenges. next five years as it faces significant want to listen to your opinions as well. proposals on how to achieve the The situation this year has not reductions to its budget, and has to To share our thinking with you, the required savings, which will include improved – in fact, it is worse and make some very hard decisions about council is approaching this challenge residents’ feedback. This meeting will that is going to continue for the where to spend its money. with these four key themes at the inform a report to a full council foreseeable future. Councillor Bob Bright, leader of The economic conditions facing all heart of the Prospectus for Change: meeting in February 2014 when I’m not going to sugar coat this Newport City Council local authorities across the UK has • A chieve savings by being more decisions will be voted on, and future with words such as “efficiencies” or over the coming years. been well publicised, and Newport City efficient in the way we work budgets set. “savings”. Over the next four years, it We will not be able to deliver all Your responses are appreciated by Council has already made £50 million • R edesign the ways in which we is predicted that Newport City the services we have traditionally of cuts. It is estimated that a further provide services, collaborate with the council as they will help to give an Council will have to make cuts of delivered and we will also have to £12 million of cuts needs to be made other organisations and look at new insight into the views and wishes of around £34 million. In 2013/14 look at innovative ways of providing in the next financial year alone, quite ways of working to make services local residents. Send your suggestions alone we will probably have to spend others. literally every penny counts and every more cost effective to [email protected] £12m less than this year. For Newport, this will not just be option must be considered. • P rioritise our statutory services such There will be further detailed Figures such as these are difficult about saving money – although that These are the most severe cuts that as education and social services information on the proposed changes to imagine so in this edition of the council has ever had to make, and • W here possible, protect vulnerable to the budget and which services will has to be an important part of our deciding where we will have to reduce groups in our communities from be affected later in the year. There will Newport Matters we will try to deliberations – but about ensuring spending is an extremely difficult the wider impact of budget cuts and also be other opportunities for you to explain what that means in real that residents receive the best possible decision. This is why we are sharing the welfare reform programmes have your say on these proposals. terms. services that we can provide. this information with you, so that the introduced by central government. Information will be in future editions We will do all we can to protect We would like to invite you to help voices, ideas and suggestions of our We can’t guarantee that we will be of Newport Matters and also on the frontline services but we should not us with this process by letting us residents and recipients of our services able to act on all of the suggestions we council’s website be in any doubt that all councils in know which services are important to can inform this process. receive but we can promise that they www.newport.gov.uk/changingservices the UK, and Newport is no exception, you and if you have any ideas about will have to undergo seismic change potential savings. Local government Cultural leaders warn of strategy Newport City Council is harsh times ahead looking for your views on a Councils across Wales, and significantly downwards. cultural strategy. the rest of the UK, are all Unprotected service areas like Newport is a city with a proud having to deal with a new transport, leisure, highways and sporting and cultural tradition and culture, are all likely to experience financial reality. heritage. Such activities improve and significant and increased financial enrich the lives of people enabling In June, the Welsh Local pressure in the future. them to have fun, learn and gain Government Association (WLGA), Councillor Aaron Shotton qualifications, enjoy physical health which represents all 22 councils in (Flintshire), WLGA deputy leader and and mental wellbeing, or be Wales, said local government was spokesperson for finance, said: “This employed in the cultural sector. braced for “a harsh financial future” latest round of cuts to public The excellence of the city’s in the wake of the UK government’s spending will have a huge impact on sporting and cultural facilities also comprehensive spending review. the delivery of public services in attracts visitors to the city which It was announced that a further Wales. supports the local economy, creates £11.5 billion of cuts will be made to “Local councils have already jobs and promotes a positive image. UK public spending confirming that experienced an 8.4 per cent real The council is also proposing to austerity measures will continue into terms reduction in spending power establish a cultural partnership the next parliament. since the onset of the recession but which brings together organisations With the Welsh Government with UK austerity measures set to and individuals, who through having to make around £110 continue for many years into the working together can maximise the million of savings in 2013 and 2014, future, even our pessimistic financial opportunities on offer in this sector. and further cuts for 2015, the forecasts are beginning to become a For more information and to financial forecasts for how much very real, and painful financial have your say visit money will be available for public reality.” www.newport.gov.uk services in Wales will be revised

2 For the latest news visit www.newport.gov.uk NEWPORT MATTERS Your council tax –a What does the council small contribution spend its money on? Council tax is collected – this still left Newport Understanding how a council’s multi-million pound budget is broken down can be hard to to help pay for services. residents paying substantially picture. Here we show you just how much it costs to run some of our key services each year. However, it contributes just less than most people in 12 per cent towards the Wales and the UK. council’s total income. Most homes are subject to Council tax rises are council tax based on effectively “capped” by five valuations from 1 April 2005 £300k to keep £2.3m to run per cent each year. Unlike set by the Valuation Office our roads Newport’s four England, the Welsh Agency. clear in winter Government has not Final council tax bills council care recommended a council tax include the Gwent Police More than £1m to run homes freeze. precept and, where relevant, Newport International This year, council tax in a community council Sports Village Newport rose by 3.5 per cent precept. Pressures on council budget £1.2m to deliver free school meals Newport City Council has to increase of around 300 over £700k to run deal with a number of the next few years £ Newport’s parks pressures on its budget • A reduction in the amount given in specific grants by the each year. These include: £260k to • A potential reduction in real Welsh Government which is also facing a squeeze in monitor food £85k to run terms in the Welsh the Register Government revenue support funding from central hygiene grant – this makes up nearly government standards service half the council’s total income • New legislation requiring • An ageing population putting additional council resources More than £2m to increased demand on care such as the changes to the collect refuse services for older people food hygiene regulations • Rising numbers of primary which mean businesses are school pupils – it is expected now compelled to display Busting the myths about that there will be an average their ratings what the council does • The council does not set business rates – Statutory and non- we only collect them on behalf of Welsh statutory services Government Councils provide a range Councils have statutory • The majority of city centre shops including of vital front line services responsibilities for many things empty ones are owned by private landlords and the Local that affect people’s lives, and not the council Government Association including, planning and estimates that they transport, social services and • Council tax does not pay for all council provide more than 700 promoting equality and services – it makes up only 12 per cent of the sustainable development. separate services to the council’s budget Local government also provides public, including some a range of non-statutory services, • National chains and private businesses make that are often unseen or such as leisure and culture and the decision whether to have a shop in taken for granted. the regeneration of local areas. Newport – not the council.

NEWPORT MATTERS For council enquiries call 01633 656 656 3 Improved city play areas with great new facilities Three fantastic new play areas in Newport were officially opened recently by the city’s Mayor, Councillor Cliff Suller. Local children assisted Newport City Council with the designs for the upgraded playgrounds in Tredegar Park, Jubilee Gardens and Bettws Lane. Basket swings, spinning bowls and climbing frames are among the new fun equipment that has been installed. Councillor Suller was joined by the cabinet member for leisure and culture, Councillor Debbie Wilcox, ward members and local children. Three other play areas were also part of the improvement programme – Marshfield Dairy, Mayor of Newport, Councillor Cliff Suller opens new play areas Thompson Avenue and another site Park, as one of our major parks, “It is pleasing that we have been contributions towards community in Bettws – thanks to an attracts visitors from across the able to undertake the revamping of facilities from major developers. investment of £220,000. city. The playground adds to the six play areas in this financial year, “I hope in future we will be able Councillor Wilcox said: “Most of park’s wonderful facilities despite the difficult economic to carry out more work but this will the new play areas will be used by including the skatepark and the climate, using a combination of depend on finance becoming . the local community but Tredegar sports fields. funding sources including available.” . . Youngsters enjoy New gyms Bouncing for e the outdoors coming medals – and r soon fun More than 200 youngsters from As well as youngsters having an Visitors to the gyms in Newport Usk Valley Trampoline Club, across Newport enjoyed a outdoor experience for a night, those u Centre and Newport which runs sessions at memorable summer that saw completing their bronze and silver International Sports Village on Mondays them camping, canoeing and Duke of Edinburgh’s award s velodrome will soon be able to and the Velodrome on climbing over the holiday. expeditions also camped and took i use the very latest equipment. Wednesdays, won many Organised by the council’s youth part in various activities. Those doing The gym at Newport Centre, as trophies and medals over service the summer camps were open their gold Duke of Edinburgh’s e award acted as volunteers and well as having Technogym fitness the last competitive season to young people aged 11-25 who and audio visual equipment, will be attend youth clubs across the city as assisted with the running of the with individual and team

L increased in size by 40 per cent. well as members of the youth council camps including helping with the successes. At the velodrome, significant cooking and looking after groups on You can join the club to and those taking part in projects with improvements have been made to activities. compete or follow the British youth workers in schools. the gym and free weights provision. Gymnastics (BG) trampoline

& A new strength and conditioning awards scheme and the club

gym is being developed on the welcomes beginners as well as ground floor and the main gym on t bouncing for fun and fitness. the first floor will increase in size Parties and one-off events can

r and have new equipment. also be arranged. The two new gyms will open in With a disability trained BG October. More information o qualified advanced coach, GCSE including directions, travel, prices and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and facilities can be found at

p Scheme are invigilated. www.newport.gov.uk/activenewport For more information call on the Active Newport Facebook 07952584240.

S page, or call 01633 656757.

4 www.newport.gov.uk [email protected] NEWPORT MATTERS Bus stops on the move A number of changes will take place in the city centre as demolition work begins this autumn in preparation for the exciting Friars Walk scheme. The main bus station will have to close at the end of October which means Newport Bus, Stagecoach, National Express and other operators will be allocated alternative stops. These will include the new terminus in Upper Dock Street, near ; High Street and Queensway (see map). Full details of the stops being used by particular services will be signposted in the city centre and can be viewed on www.newport.gov.uk/redevelopment . They will also be available from individual operators. A new bus station will be created as part of the Friars Walk safety reasons after the council was A number of new city centre bus stops and a new terminal will development. alerted that the disused Capitol car be in operation while the city centre redevelopment takes place

The city council does not have to park was in urgent need of repair. . This area will remain closed off find alternative stands for the taxis . using the bus station but it is for the first phase of the . allocating some provision for the demolition, which is funded by the

benefit of taxi users. Welsh Government and will y Queensberry Real Estate, the involve the taking down of the car t development company behind park and some shops in the area, Friars Walk, expects construction as well as during the construction i work to begin in spring 2014. period. Debenhams, Next, Top Shop and It is believed that the long-term c Cineworld are among those already benefits of the Friars Walk scheme, signed up for the new scheme. which is set to revitalise the city It was necessary to close off part centre, will outweigh any short g of Square and Upper term inconvenience and

Dock Street in the summer for disruption . n i

New look market g Visitors to the market will Market traders are beginning to have noticed that the High move into the new units and an n Street façade has undergone official opening is being planned to

mark the end of the project and the a a transformation. start of the Christmas shopping With a new entrance and shop season. Look out for details on the fronts, the major refurbishment council website but in the h project is finally nearing meantime pop along to see what completion after some unavoidable the market has to offer and support C delays. your local, independent traders.

NEWPORT MATTERS Do it online www.newport.gov.uk 5 Support for businesses Tribute to Grants for new Loans for established The development of superfast Councillor businesses businesses broadband in Newport will also Ron Jones Grants of up to £500 are Loans of up to £10,000 are support the work of the Newport available from Newport City available to existing SMEs (under city centre regeneration taskforce Council and UK Steel Enterprise to 250 employees) that have been which was established by the Welsh pre start ups and businesses up to established in the city for more Government earlier this year. 12 months old. Companies/ than 12 months. In Newport, the super connected partnerships/sole traders/social The loan is available towards cities project is aiming to make enterprises are all eligible. plant and equipment, ICT sure that businesses have the The grants are available towards equipment, software, websites and chance to connect to a superfast first year’s rent on first commercial related training, new marketing network, making their broadband premises, plant and equipment, projects, external and internal speeds superfast, or ultrafast where ICT equipment, software, websites building works and alterations, possible, by 2015. and related training. Up to 40 per capital expenditure related to Under the scheme, businesses Councillor Ron Jones, Newport’s cent of costs can be awarded with a obtaining ISO accreditations. will be able to apply for a voucher longest serving councillor sadly minimum grant of £250 and For more information visit that will contribute to the cost of maximum of £500. www.newport.gov.uk/business the initial connection. passed away last month. To discuss your project’s The next step will be to work with Councillor Jones had represented Newport City Council eligibility or request an application local companies to make them the Pill ward for nearly 50 years and business loans form, contact the council’s aware of the benefits of superfast was the current chair of planning. (pre start-up and businesses economic development team on broadband and help them explore Leader of Newport City Council, under 12 months old) 01633 656656 or email ways in which they can use it. Councillor Bob Bright said: “I am Loans of between £500 and [email protected] Under the scheme there are also deeply saddened to hear of the death £1,000 are available and can be plans to improve public wi-fi in the of one of our most committed used towards plant and equipment, Superfast broadband city which will benefit residents and councillors. Ron always put the ICT equipment, software, websites Newport City Council is to receive visitors. community of Pill first, supporting and related training, new up to £6 million to help deliver a For further information on the and fighting for them at every step. marketing projects, external and local superfast broadband scheme. super connected project visit “It is a great loss which will be felt internal building works and It will help transform the city www.newportsmartandconnected within the community, across the city . alterations, capital expenditure into a ‘super-connected city’ by city.co.uk/superfast or email and within the council. Ron was well-

. related to obtaining ISO offering access to a superfast [email protected] respected and an excellent example of network infrastructure. a hard-working local councillor. . accreditations. “I am pleased that he was taking part in community events until the s Rats? Call in very end – it is exactly what he would Newport County have wanted.” the city’s pest The former chair of Gwent County w AFC awarded controllers Council was also governor of Primary School and St Put a full stop to problem pests e Michael's RC Primary School and was freedom of the city such as rodents, insects or a carer's champion, older person's Newport County AFC was received the freedom of Newport birds by calling in the city champion and member of Newport n presented with the freedom since 1909.” council’s pest controllers. Housing Trust.

of the City of Newport last Councillor Bob Bright, leader As a non-profit making Veterans football t month in recognition of the of Newport City Council, organisation, it provides a quality, Dust off your boots and head to club’s return to the football proposed the freedom of the city comprehensive and cost effective r service that handles or offers advice Bettws to join the Newport league. was awarded to the club, as well as the surviving members of the on pest infestations that have the Veterans league. Mayor Councillor Cliff Suller

o 1963 Newport RFC team who potential to spread disease or seriously Players aged 50 and over meet presented the club with a scroll beat the powerful New Zealand affect your health and wellbeing. every Friday at the Active Living marking the honour just before All Blacks, and this was Our flexible pest control teams Centre 6-9pm.

p the game against Bristol Rovers unanimously supported by the have expert knowledge of particular There are also opportunities to play at on August 17. full council. problems in the locality. non-league veterans and mixed-age “I was delighted to formally The former Black and Ambers All the officers are fully qualified football on Mondays at Newport

w present the scroll awarding the will be presented with the and have many years of experience in International Sports Village (NISV) freedom of the City to Newport freedom at a special dinner dealing with all pests in domestic, and Wednesdays at High County AFC. e being organised by the club in public and business premises. School. At the end of the league “They join a special club of their honour on October 30 – For more information or to season veterans play unstructured 16 individuals and the anniversary of their famous report a pest problem contact games at NISV 5-6pm. organisations who have N victory. 01633 851668 or email For more information email [email protected] [email protected]

6 www.newport.gov.uk [email protected] NEWPORT MATTERS

New community Royal legacy takes shape benefits city’s green spaces Belle Vue Park and Ringland Councillor Bob Bright, leader of Top are now both Queen Newport City Council, said: “I’m Elizabeth II Fields which will delighted that the city boasts not protect them for generations one but two green spaces which will to come. be protected for the enjoyment of Fields in Trust operate the residents in the future. scheme which was designed to “I am especially pleased about protect 2012 outdoor recreational Ringland Top, which is in my own spaces across the country to ward, as the idea to put it forward celebrate HM The Queen’s diamond for this honour came from the jubilee. people who live there. The official signing of the deeds “It is fantastic that Newport will of dedication means that both the now have two Queen Elizabeth II Work at the former year, is already proving successful, new sustainable community will west and the east of the city have Fields as a permanent reminder of a Llanwern steelworks site with 91 properties sold and majority also feature its own 100 acre their own Queen Elizabeth II Field. very special year.” development is progressing occupied. The properties delivered business area, Celtic Business Park, by joint venture partner Persimmon making it a major provider of new well. include a range of two, three and office, industrial and warehouse The £1bn project is four bedroom homes and town space. Ward meetings helping to transform the 600 acre houses. St. Modwen has also made “St. Modwen is committed to Allt-yr-Yn: 28 October, 10am, Civic Centre site into an exciting new a multi-million pound working with Newport City Council Beechwood: 9 October, 6pm, St Julian’s library sustainable community for commitment to develop and and partners to realise significant : 3 October, 2pm, Christchurch Village Hall Newport. improve local infrastructure, with new opportunities to regenerate : 10 October, 7pm, Community Centre Ben Cook, South Wales' new new access roads planned to and Newport. Predicted to bring £1bn of Shaftesbury: 13 November, 6pm, All Saints Church, Road residential land director for from the site. investment to the local economy regeneration specialist, St. Modwen “Over the next 20 years, St. through creation of job said: “Since acquiring the site, Modwen will deliver around 4,000 opportunities and facilities, we we’ve been focussed on an extensive new homes and a range of facilities believe Glan Llyn will become the Safeguarding programme of remediation to including a new local centre place for people to live and work in enable the delivery of the first phase offering leisure and retail space south Wales for generations to our children of homes and a new gateway into supported by new education come.” The new south east Wales boards in Newport, Torfaen, the community. The first phase of facilities all surrounded by 80 acres For more information visit Safeguarding Children Board Monmouthshire, Blaenau Gwent housing, launched to market last of extensive open parkland. This www.glanlyn-newport.co.uk (SEWSCB) has launched a new and Caerphilly. website – www.sewsc.org.uk Its role is to ensure children and LDP alternative sites consultation The website has advice and young people in the south east Wales information for children and young region are protected from abuse, As part of the recent A six-week consultation on this need, population growth and people, parents, carers and neglect and exploitation and live in consultation on the revised register began on 6 September. It is employment land plus the outcome professionals. an environment that promotes their deposit Local Development available on the council website of work by a scrutiny committee to SEWSCB has replaced the five well-being and life chances. Plan (LDP), there was an www.newport.gov.uk/planningpolicy identify Gypsy and Traveller sites to former local safeguarding children opportunity for people to together with representation forms meet legal requirements. which can be filled in online or It went out to consultation for six submit proposals for printed. weeks in June and July. Rogue landlord hotline alternative sites for The documents are also available Following the completion of the totalling £205,328 have been development or protection. Newport City Council now has at the Information Station, statutory consultations and imposed by the courts. Newport City Council is required a confidential telephone Queensway, in all Newport libraries consideration of the public The confidential 24-hour to produce an alternative sites number for the public to or on request. consultation responses, the final telephone number is 01633 235233 register which details those report landlords they think Comments need to be made on the version of the LDP will go before the and callers are asked to leave the consultation responses. may be breaking the law. forms and must be submitted to the full council later this year. It will then address of the property, the landlord’s The register includes suggestions Already this year, the council has council no later than 5pm on Friday be submitted to the Welsh name (if known) and the problem. for new sites and amendments or prosecuted 10 landlords for failing to 18 October by post, online or emailed Government for its examination. Calls can be made anonymously but deletions of allocations. It is maintain their properties to legal to [email protected] The LDP will then help to shape people are asked to leave their details important to note that these standards or letting out unlicensed The revised plan took on board future development in Newport until if they would like to be updated. suggestions are not council proposals. additional evidence on housing 2026. shared houses. Fines and costs

NEWPORT MATTERS For council enquiries call 01633 656656 7 The Riverfront – 01633 656 757 www.newport.gov.uk/riverfront

Workshops (ongoing) Sinfonia Cymru (13 Oct) The Riverfront plays host to a vast range of workshops with something to As part of Sinfonia Cymru's Classic Conversation strand, the orchestra suit all ages, interests and abilities. invites its Guest Director and Leader Bartosz Woroch to take centre stage. Cinema (ongoing) Space, Time Machine and Monster The Riverfront plays a broad range of films from around the world. We also Exhibition (14-25 Oct) have a selection of matinee showings and bring baby showings. Featuring a selection of vintage horror and sci-fi film posters, which have been kindly loaned by The Art Depot, Newport. Exhibition: Matthew Harris (until 4 Oct) Matthew Harris's work explores the dynamic and complex relationship we Shakespeare schools festival (14-15 Oct) have with the urban landscape. Each night four schools will perform four different Shakespeare plays. First Wednesday (2 Oct, 6 Nov) Oliver Reed: Wild Thing (17 Oct) Regular series of lunchtime recitals. with a mixture of music presented. Oliver Reed knocks back a few drinks and shares his incredible life story. Earthfall: Chelsea Hotel (3 Oct) Space, Time Machine and Monster Festival Earthfall reveal the poetry and tragicomic events from this iconic hotel (18-19 Oct) through dance. Leaked Government documents have revealed an extra-terrestrial plot to invade the City of Newport this autumn! . Comedy Port 2013 (7-12 Oct)

. Another bumper crop of comedy comes to Newport in the form of Comedy Buddy Holly and The Cricketers (23 Oct) This breathtaking show is guaranteed to have everyone singing along. . Port 2013! Follow us on Twitter for the very latest Comedy Port news @PortComedyFest

t Call Me Dusty (24 Oct) Henning Knows Bestest (7 Oct) Celebrates the music of Dusty Springfield, the private person and alter ego. r German born Henning Wehn is the self-appointed German Comedy Comedy Shed (25 Oct) Ambassador to the UK. The relaxed cabaret style comedy club offers three professional comedians o Old Trout Puppet Company – Ignorance and the chance to enjoy a drink. (10 Oct) p South Wales Argus Young Artist of the Year The Old Trout Puppet Company has gone searching for our lost bliss (26 Oct-23 Nov) among our ignorant prehistoric ancestors. The South Wales Argus is teaming up with the University of South Wales w Sessions Open Mic Night & Boutique and The Riverfront to search for the Gwent Young Artist of the Year 2013. Market Stalls (11 Oct, 8 Nov) Met Opera (26 Oct, 9 Nov) e Boutique stalls adorn the foyer from 5pm until 11pm and performance fills The Metropolitan Opera's Emmy Award winning series of live performance the air in the café from 7pm. All types of performers are welcome to come transmissions are beamed to The Riverfront direct from New York. along, from comedians to poets and musicians, and all you need to do is N turn up on the night. This event is not aimed at under 16s, acts after 9pm Chris Dean's Syd Lawrence Orchestra in

may be unsuitable for children. Concert (26 Oct) A spectacular show full of pulsating energy from the Big Band era.

n Gwerthu Allan (11 Oct)

i 'Gwerthu Allan' present an evening of Welsh language stand-up. Curious Creatures (30 Oct) Comedy Port family fun day (12 Oct) Welcome to the 'Curious Creatures' wildlife park. Suitable for children aged 5+ and their families. A day of hands-on funny stuff for families, including free workshops, n performances and Comedy Club 4 Kids.

o Newport Centre – 01633 656757 Newport Market – Stuck in the Mud 01633 656656 (12-13 Nov)

s Welsh Open Alice in Chains Newport Food See Riverfront listings.

’ Grappling (16 Nov) Festival (4-5 Oct) (27 Oct) With special guest Ghost. The market will be playing a big t Cage fighting UDO Welsh role in this year’s food festival. See 01633 212077 our special pull out for full details.

a (2 Nov) Streetdance Piano recital (12 Championships Comic Fair (12 Oct) Oct) Get your hands on some classic h (24 Nov) Piano recital. 12pm. editions. 9.30am-4.30pm

W Events are subject to change – visit www. newport.gov.uk/whatson for updated listings

8 Follow us on facebook www.facebook.com/newportcitycouncil NEWPORT MATTERS Big Read (1-5 Oct) A celebration of reading and writing for Gold medalist dives in all the family Paralympic gold medallist Liz Johnson made a splash at Meet the authors Newport International Sports Tuesday to Friday, Newport Centre, 2.30pm Village recently as she showed Meet authors including Lindsey Davis, Lilian Harry, John Harvey and her support for Macmillan’s Elizabeth Chadwick. World’s Biggest Coffee Tuesday to Friday, Newport Centre Heroes Bar, from 7pm Morning. Meet author Ben Kane, share your own work at an open mic night, Liz, from Newport, took to the enjoy a date with the devil or find out how science can inspire fiction pool to encourage people to host a with Jordan Stryker – Bionic Hero. coffee morning for Macmillan Cancer Support on Friday 27 Saturday, Rivermead Centre September. 1-2pm: Illustrator of picture books and novels for children, Sarah Liz, who won a gold medal for Warburton, will be reading from some of her books, and helping the 100m breaststroke at the 2008 Liz Johnson supporting Macmillan at the sports village children and families to draw their own book characters and worlds. Beijing Paralympic also secured a knowing that you’re not alone and visit www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee. 2.30-3.30pm: Animal mad author Anna Wilson will be reading from her silver medal at the Athens that’s one of the things that For information or support latest book and encouraging the children to help her create a wild and Paralympics in 2004 and a bronze Macmillan does.” relating to cancer, call Macmillan’s wacky story about “animals in crazy places”. medal at the London 2012 Now in its 23rd year, World’s Support Line on 0808 808 00 00 For more information visit www.newport.gov.uk/libraries Paralympics, is encouraging people Biggest Coffee Morning raised an (8am to 8pm Monday to Friday) or to host a coffee morning to raise amazing £15m for Macmillan last visit www.macmillan.org.uk. crucial funds for the charity. year alone. “I’m supporting World’s Biggest The charity is appealing for Flower power Coffee Morning as Macmillan was more people than ever to host their Follow us Despite the hot weather and a Many thanks go to all who able to help my family at a time own coffee morning to raise shortage of rain, the gardens took part this year and for the when we needed them most,” she crucial funds to support people newportcitycouncil hard work and enthusiasm said. affected by cancer. entered in this year’s Newport in @newportcouncil Bloom competition still looked shown in creating such eye- “You can learn so much from To sign up to host a coffee sharing your experiences and wonderful. catching displays. morning, call 0300 1000 200 or rs 2 hou REE F ng* parki

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NEWPORT MATTERS Follow us on twitter @newportcouncil 9 Help for children and vulnerable families Two programmes in programmes are making a real Newport are making a real difference in our communities.” difference to the lives of Councillor Debbie Wilcox, cabinet member for leisure and children and families in culture, said: “I’m sure the disadvantaged areas of the children who took part in Flying city. Start’s summer celebration days Flying Start helps families with had great fun but the sessions children aged up to four while also have a serious objective – to Families First provides support help them achieve developmental through preventative and early milestones and help their parents intervention services. to acquire the skills they need to Councillor Bob Poole, Newport assist their child’s learning. City Council’s cabinet member “I’m delighted that the Families in Newport are getting the help they need through two for education and young people, funding from the Welsh partnership projects said: “We want all families in the Government has enabled us to cabinet member for skills and causes of disadvantage will not city to feel confident, nurtured extend the programme and work, added: “An essential strand only benefit families and and safe and make sure children provide purpose-built facilities. It of our work with families is communities but will have an achieve their potential. means even more children in ensuring adult family members impact on child poverty, one of . “We work closely with a range Newport will be to get that vitally have the right skills and are able the most pernicious issues facing . of other organisations to deliver important ‘Flying Start’ to their to access further learning and us today and one we are

. services to improve the lives of lives.” employment opportunities. determined to stamp out with the families and both these Councillor Deborah Davies, “Tackling one of the root help of our partners.” g Exam success for Newport pupils n Newport pupils enjoyed A Level achieving a pass grade at WJEC A exam entries were up 9.1 per cent and 1.6 per cent higher than the i and GCSE success in the Level (Grades A* - E) was equal to from last year compared with a Welsh average for 2013. summer exams. the UK average at 98.1 per cent and Wales decrease of 3.9 per cent. The number of pupils achieving n The proportion of students remained above the Welsh average Newport’s overall 2013 GCSE A* - A grades was 23 per cent, 3.8 per of 97.6 per cent. Passes at WJEC results also showed an improvement cent higher than the Welsh average.

r achieving the highest WJEC A* and A grades at A Levels was 24.7 per cent, grades A* - C were at 78 per cent in on last year and remain above the In 2012, 21.5 per cent of Newport remaining above the Welsh average Newport, an increase from 77.9 per Welsh average. pupils achieved the top grades. a of 22.9 per cent. The percentage of cent last year. Figures for the WJEC Overall, around 98 per cent of those gaining an A* was equal to the An increasing number of young examinations show that 67.3 per entries in the city were graded cent of entries achieved grades A* to between A* and G. e Wales average at 6 per cent. people have stayed in Newport The proportion of students schools to enter WJEC exams. A Level C compared to 66 per cent last year L

Education Achievement Service a year on Last September saw the April and stated that, “It is our view Steve Davies, managing director council education services by a launch of the South East that just one consortium (South of EAS, said: “We had a very good third. The example set by Newport & Wales Education Achievement East) is ahead of the others.” first year with lots of support from and Blaenau Gwent on how Service which is designed to Highlights of the report included: schools and education colleagues collaborative working can add raise school education • There has been high ambition, within local authorities. I have value to the delivery of services is s standards. good communication and visited a number of good and an example for others across the

l The EAS was created by the five strong engagement with outstanding schools across the country. However, with three local authorities (Blaenau Gwent, school leaders and young region and there is lots of good and councils in the region in special people in the development of excellent practice happening. measures the task facing the EAS is

o Caerphilly, Newport, Monmouthshire and Torfaen). By the EAS “Bringing together strong still considerable. working together as part of an • The new managing director of education professionals to raise “While early indications point to o integrated service, schools can be EAS has done a great job, education standards in our schools all five LAs improving standards in supported and challenged more collective leadership has been has been key to our progress. national test and examinations, the strong and support for local “The unity and commitment of EAS recognises that, to meet the h effectively, front line services enhanced and the most made of authorities in need is positive the five councils, its leaders, chief needs of the children and young • Overall planning has been executives and directors of people of south east Wales further

c the available resources. A review carried out by Welsh effective against fast-paced education have been critical to the strong, collaborative work is Government of the four Regional deadlines which was seen as initial success of the service. required through the strong

S School Improvement Consortia necessary as part of signalling “The Hill report is looking at the partnership that exists in the across Wales was published in the change impact of decreasing the number of region.”

10 For the latest news visit www.newport.gov.uk NEWPORT MATTERS Improvement Plan 2013/14 The council has a new ten point plan for 2013/14 to deliver improved services to the people of Newport.

a greener a caring city Newport is a Caring City Newport is a Greener and Healthier City & healthier city Our priorities for 2013/14 are: Our priorities for 2013/14 are: • To reduce the time taken to deliver a Disabled Facilities Grant • To increase the amount of waste recycled, and reduced the amount of • To increase the numbers of people using Telecare to help them to live as waste sent to landfill independently as possible • To enhance cultural opportunities and increase participation in leisure activities

a fairer city Newport is a Fairer City a safer city Our priorities for 2013/14 are: Newport is a Safer City • To increase our insight and understanding of what the community needs Our priorities for 2013/14 are: to help us to delivered more targeted services • To make the streets cleaner and safer by monitoring and maintaining • To improve the way that the local authority acts as a corporate parent to the highway network and removing fly tipping looked after children to help them achieve stability and permanency • To further develop early intervention and preventative services through the Integrated Family Support Service. a learning & working city Newport is a Learning and Working City If you would like to contact us about the plan please call Our priorities for 2013/14 are: 01633 656656 or email • To improve the educational attainment of children at Key Stage 4 [email protected] • To regenerate the city and increase the attractiveness of the city centre Cynllun Gwella 2013/14 Mae’r Cyngor wedi llunio cynllun deg cam ar gyfer 2013/14 â’r nod o ddarparu gwasanaethau gwell i bobl Casnewydd.

ddinas ofaglar ddinas wyrddach Mae Casnewydd yn Ddinas Ofalgar Mae Casnewydd yn Ddinas Wyrddach ac iachach Ein Hamcanion ar gyfer 2013/14: ac Iachach • Lleihau’r amser a gymerir i weinyddu Grantiau Cyfleusterau i’r Anabl Ein Hamcanion ar gyfer 2013/14: • Cynyddu nifer y bobl sy’n defnyddio gwasanaeth Teleofal i’w helpu i fyw • Ailgylchu mwy o wastraff ac anfon llai o wastraff i safleoedd tirlenwi mor annibynnol â phosibl • Cynyddu Cyfleoedd Diwylliannol a chyfranogiad mewn gweithgareddau hamdden

ddinas decach ddinas Mae Casnewydd yn Ddinas Decach ddiogelach Ein Hamcanion ar gyfer 2013/14: Mae Casnewydd yn Ddinas Ddiogelach • Cynyddu ein Dirnadaeth a dealltwriaeth o anghenion y Gymuned i’n Ein Hamcanion ar gyfer 2013/14: helpu i ddarparu gwasanaethau mwy targedig • Gwneud y strydoedd yn lanach ac yn ddiogelach drwy fonitro a • Gwella’r ffordd y mae’r awdurdodau lleol yn gweithredu fel Rhiant chynnal y rhwydwaith priffyrdd ac atal tipio anghyfreithlon Corfforaethol i blant sy'n derbyn gofal i’w helpu i gael sefydlogrwydd a • Datblygu ymhellach y gwasanaethau ymyriadau cynnar ac ataliol pharhad. drwy’r Gwasanaeth Integredig Cymorth i Deuluoedd.

ddinas sy’n dysgu Os hoffech gysylltu â ni ynghylch y cynllun ffoniwch 01633 Mae Casnewydd yn Ddinas sy’n Dysgu a gweithio 656656 neu anfonwch e-bost atom yn a Gweithio [email protected]. Ein Hamcanion ar gyfer 2013/14: • Gwella cyflawniad addysgol plant yng Nghyfnod Allweddol 4 • Adfywio’r ddinas a gwneud Canol y Ddinas yn fwy deniadol

NEWPORT MATTERS Do it online www.newport.gov.uk 11 Changes to your waste and recycling collections Over the next year, a number of sack for cardboard as new legislation standard 240ltr bins. 52/53 Commercial Road, There is a limit on site for unsorted changes to waste and recycling on composting means the council The new bins are slightly narrower Pillgwenlly, NP20 2PE, open waste of five black bags and staff will collections in Newport will be can no longer collect garden waste and do not take up as much room Mon-Sat, 9am – 4.30pm be actively encouraging you to sort introduced. Our aim is to and cardboard in the same container. and if using all the recycling • Information Station, Old Station waste before arrival. We will be improve the service on offer, Your new sack will be delivered schemes, offer ample capacity for a Building, Queensway, Newport checking the contents of bags and increase recycling levels and with an advice leaflet and details of family’s worth of residual waste. NP20 4AX, open Mon-Fri, offering advice on which materials when the scheme will begin in your reduce the amount of waste Roll-out of the bins will be phased 8.30am – 5pm should be kept separate or can be area. over the coming year, but if you going to landfill. Household waste recycling recycled at the kerbside. If you only use your orange lidded would like to have a new bin sooner The site is only open to residents of Many residents are not making full bin for cardboard, we can remove the please contact the council. centre Newport and does not accept waste use of the recycling services and we bin when the new scheme starts. At the household waste recycling from traders, landlords or business know that almost 50 per cent of the Food and plastic bags – on centre (HWRC) on Docksway, a wide waste. No vans or other commercial material going into the rubbish bin Food waste request range of new materials can now be vehicles are allowed to use the HWRC is easily recyclable. Working with Waste Awareness Rolls of food waste liners and recycled – from mattresses and and these will be diverted to the There is very little that can’t be Wales, we are looking at food recycling bags for plastics will no textiles to CDs and batteries. weighbridge where you can pay to recycled at the kerbside or at the recycling and talking to residents longer be automatically delivered to By keeping the materials separate landfill the waste. household waste recycling centre and who currently do not recycle this type households but are still available free when loading the car, it will make it we are encouraging everyone to of waste. of charge. far easier to recycle on site. There are make that extra effort. On October 5, we will be hosting Wastesavers will issue bags on very few materials that can’t be Recycli ng Recycling is a positive action that the Love Food Hate Waste road show request to encourage less waste. Call t Ta recycled providing they are kept or rg at the Newport Food Festival. There p e not only benefits the environment 01633 281 281 or email separate. w t e will be advice on how to reduce the N but can also save you money. [email protected] The site is open 7.30am- r

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Sending waste to landfill is amount of food waste we produce Bags will also be available to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and %

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that could save the average family c u

expensive for the council and, in collect from the following locations: 9am -4.30pm Saturday and y

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e c addition, if we do not meet the over £500 a year. • Wastesavers Resource Centre, R 52 l Sunday. It is closed Christmas Day, y targets set by Welsh Government we ilg Smaller bins Esperanto Way, , Newport, Boxing Day, New Years Day and Targed A are likely to be hit with costly fines. As part of the increased recycling NP19 0RD, open Mon-Fri, Bank Holiday Mondays. You need Cardboard collections services we will also be rolling out 8.30am – 4pm to be on site at least 15 minutes • Community Furniture Shop, Residents will be receiving a new 180ltr bins in replacement of the prior to closing time.

12 Recycle for Newport www.newport.gov.uk/recycle NEWPORT MATTERS