DECEMBER 2015. Edition 1......

SEE PAGES 8&9 FOR MORE ON THE FRIARS WALK STORY AND HOW HELPED TO MAKE NNEWMPORT THE VISION A REALITY MATTERS

The official of Newport City Council

FRIARS WALK OPENS - A NEW CHAPTER FOR NEWPORT

Friars Walk, the city’s The Rt Revd Councillor Bright described Mr Sargent, Chief Executive He added that the council’s vision much anticipated retail of , , Thursday 12 November as a of Queensberry Real Estate, in making Friars Walk a reality and leisure scheme, then blessed the new centre. momentous day for the city, said at the opening: should be highly commended. opened to the public on its residents and businesses. Thursday 12 November. Welsh fashion designer “The opening of the £117 million “I’d like to congratulate everyone Julien McDonald officially opened “It was the day our vision Friars Walk development is a who’s worked so hard to make Friars After the official opening the anchor store Debenhams, became a reality. Friars Walk major milestone for the city of Walk a reality. It’s an ambitious by Councillor Bob Bright, one of 25 stores that welcomed is an exemplar for partnership Newport. It has turned around the and prestigious development worthy Leader of Newport City shoppers from day one. working between the public and retail and leisure offer in the city, of a great city like Newport.” Council, the crowds private sector, and it has proved while giving a significant boost to swept in to get their More shops, including a catalyst for investment in the the local economy through £90 The exciting 390,000 sq. ft. first look at the shops, M&S Foodhall, and restaurants city centre. million of direct investment.” (36,230 sq m) Friars Walk has restaurants and cinema. were due to open in the coming 35 retail units and 11 restaurants, weeks and, just before “We are seeing a renaissance The First Minister of , said: and it was 85 per cent let on Councillor Bright cut the opening day, it was announced with new and returning opening day with more expected ribbon in the presence of that Superbowl had signed businesses opening both in Friars “This fantastic development to sign up in the months to come. Newport’s Mayor, up and would be coming to Walk and the city centre. will breathe new life into the city. Councillor Herbie Thomas, Friars Walk next year. These will contribute millions Debenhams, Next, Topshop , the First Minister of Wales, of pounds to the local economy, “As well as providing a great array Nando’s, GBK and Le Bistro Pierre Carwyn Jones, Paul Friars Walk was the result of bringing far-reaching of shops, restaurants and a were among those welcoming Sargent and Stuart a public-private partnership benefits for all those who live new cinema, it will deliver much shoppers and diners. There is also Harris co-founders of between the council and in, work in and visit Newport needed employment, supporting Cineworld’s eight-screen cinema Queensberry Real Estate. Queensberry Real Estate. for many years to come.” businesses and the community.” and a 350 space car park.

For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 1 Pupils from six primary and High Schools, and two secondary all Newport, and from Ysgol HUNDREDS OF NEWPORT PUPILS schools took part in the Gyfun in Pontypool, KEEP WARM MARCHED THROUGH THE CITY event on November 4, marched into Westgate Square. the date on which the AND SAVE MONEY TO MARK THE ANNIVERSARY Chartists historically Groups of pupils spoke there OF THE CHARTIST MOVEMENT marched into Newport. of the injustices suffered by – and of the demands for a The children worked on the fairer society made by – their march with help and advice 19th Century predecessors. from Jamie Jarvis, a local actor who has been involved with Some marchers then fell to the this event for several years. ground at the sound of symbolic gunfire, before the names of those The Newport Schools Chartist who died outside the Westgate The Welsh Government’s March re-enacts annually the final Hotel on November 4 1839 Nest scheme aims to help moments of the trek from the were shouted by others in you keep warm and save Valleys by thousands of supporters a powerful act of remembrance. money on energy bills. of Chartism, which ended in bloody catastrophe outside the The event was organised Nest is open to all householders in old back in 1839. by Newport City Council Wales and provides advice on saving with stewards on the route energy, money management, energy The re-enactment featured around supported by the council’s tariffs and benefit entitlement. 300 children from eight local Communities First team. schools, who gathered in Clifton If your home is hard to heat, contact Park opposite , Newport Mayor Councillor Nest on Freephone where they chanted Chartist Herbie Thomas was also at the 0808 808 2244 for free advice slogans and sang protest songs, event to greet the marchers and to see if you are eligible for before setting off down , in Westgate Square. energy saving home improvements, banners aloft and in full voice. or visit www.nestwales.org.uk

Accompanied and applauded by teachers and parents, youngsters from St Woolos, Clytha, , St Julian’s and St Joseph’s RC Image courtesy of Argus MILLBROOK primary schools, and St Julian’s PRIMARY SCHOOL Newport’s Mayor, There is also a rebound AWARDED NEW PLAYGROUND Councillor Herbie Thomas, wall with a goal mouth and officially opened new basketball hoop attached. CONFUCIUS IS A BIG HIT WITH ALL AGES playground facilities in Cowshed Lane, . The installation of the new CLASSROOM equipment was made possible by STATUS He was joined by local children, contributions received as a result Graig ward and community of residential developments in councillors and Councillor Viaduct Way and Harlech Drive. Deb Davies, Newport City A Newport primary school Council’s Cabinet Member for Councillor Davies, said: is one of only 12 in Wales Streetscene and City Services. “Children and young people living to be awarded official locally now have an amazing play Confucius Classroom Toddlers to teenagers can now facility which I am confident will status by The Hanban enjoy a wide variety of new and provide many years of enjoyment, and Confucius Institute. innovative playground equipment especially as they were given a say in and there is a trim trail for those how it should be designed and what The aim of the Confucius Institute, who want to keep fit and healthy. equipment ought to be included.’ a non-profit public educational organisation affiliated with the For the very young there is a Ministry of Education of the separate enclosed play area People’s Republic of China, is to while older youngsters can promote Chinese language and use a range of facilities. culture, support local Chinese teaching internationally and facilitate cultural exchange.

Millbrook Primary School has NEW SENSORY ROOM AT ADULT TRAINING CENTRE been recognised for its active role in teaching Mandarin to non- native learners. The school has demonstrated its commitment to the September saw the Brynglas ATC offers a day service The building has recently Councillor Paul Cockeram, teaching of Mandarin Chinese and opening of a new which provides support and undergone an extensive Newport City Council’s Cabinet about China across the curriculum multi-sensory facility at activities for adults who refurbishment programme to Member for Adult and, by being granted official status, Newport City Council’s have a learning disability improve its facilities, which and Community Services, said: is able to access funding through Brynglas Adult Training and complex needs. included the development of the the Confucius Institute to support Centre (ATC), new multi-sensory room where “This is something I’ve wanted the development of their Mandarin by the city’s Mayor, It also caters for older people people can enjoy a range for a long time, and I’m and Chinese teaching programme. Councillor Herbie Thomas. with similar complex needs. of experiences. delighted it has been achieved.”

2 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 Empowering children and During the launch at the Senedd, Headteacher at St Woolos Primary young people to have their organised by pupils from School, Miss Heather Vaughan, said: say and get actively involved St Woolos Primary School in in culture and heritage helps Newport, the audience were “The success of the project was, KIDS AT SENEDD build confidence and raise shown a film about the Chartist for us, the very real sense of aspirations, the Deputy Uprising that the pupils made for purpose and enjoyment all of the Minister for Culture and during their pupils gained when making the film Sport, Ken Skates, said. Taking Over Day last year. and organising its premiere. It was another example of how children Speaking at the launch of the The pupils were asked to think are able to learn about the world of nationwide Kids in Museums about the kinds of interpretation work in a fun context. The parental Taking Over Day events, they would like to see in the and community support has been which saw museums, art galleries museum and created the film fantastic and also contributed to and heritage sites taken over by as a result which now features the pupils’ feeling of success and young people, the Deputy Minister in a Newport Museum’s pride in what they had achieved.” described the influential role that exhibition explaining the story arts and culture can have in the of the famous protests. This year’s Taking Over Day lives of young people. includes some of Wales’ most He also noted the importance The Deputy Minister said: famous sites, such as Raglan of listening to their fresh ideas Castle and Tintern Abbey. and enthusiasm to widen “This excellent film, produced the appeal of these sites. entirely by the talented young pupils at St Woolos Primary, is testament As part of the annual Taking to what can be achieved when Over Day, young people acted we place our faith in young as tour guides, exhibition people and let them take charge. curators and more, giving them I look forward to seeing more a chance to have their say on results from the many events Heather Vaughan on the left of Ken Skate and Adele Parry on the right. its management for the day. taking place this year.”

MILLION POUND NATIONAL LOTTERY WIN FOR THE GWENT LEVELS NEW LIBRARY Thousands of pounds are to “The partnership will work “Our belief is that to conserve OPENING be spent on projects based with existing regeneration landscapes effectively, it is essential HOURS around the Gwent Levels schemes in Pilgwenlly and other to get local communities interested thanks to funding provided by Communities First areas which and involved. For such a significant the Heritage Lottery Fund. fall within the Gwent Levels. project we would usually work with contractors to deliver many Known as the Living Levels project, “We hope to introduce innovative elements of the work, but the it was one of three to win a share access projects which will encourage Living Levels ethos is to deliver of £6 million worth of investment. residents to utilise the ‘Green Lung’ this project through working with on their doorstep with cycling local people and volunteers. The cash will be used to develop initiatives and public access tourism projects and boost to the Wales Coast path.” “We do not always appreciate the jobs through carefully planned landscapes that surround us, but by conservation and renovation Rich in both historical and natural looking at new ways of telling the schemes aimed at protecting heritage, the Gwent Levels is an stories of how this unique part of the landscape and encouraging important landscape for agriculture, Wales evolved we intend to bring it to residents to get involved. biodiversity and recreation. life for local people and visitors alike. The opening hours of Working with volunteers, farmers the libraries in Malpas Councillor John Richards, and communities to collectively “It is fantastic that the Heritage Lottery and Cabinet Member for Regeneration increase wildlife-friendly Fund recognises the importance have changed. and Investment said: management, provide interpretation of safeguarding our landscapes.” “This Heritage Lottery Grant is and create new trails, the project The new opening hours a fantastic boost for Newport aims to increase people’s awareness are as follows: and will help the partnership of the area’s unique features. Mark to promote Underhill of RSPB Cymru, one of Malpas: as a gateway to the Levels. the project’s partners explains, Monday 2pm – 7pm Tuesday 9.30am – 1pm Wednesday 2pm – 6pm Two Newport City Council training and when they investigated to enter the flat and reported Thursday Closed carers saved a tenant’s the alarm they discovered one that the tenant would not have Friday 9.30am – 1pm life after a fire broke of the flats was on fire. survived the incident without Saturday 9am – 1pm CARERS out on the premises. the prompt action of staff. SAVE LIFE They contacted the emergency Tredegar House: The incident happened around services, tackled the fire and got While the incident could have Monday Closed OF RESIDENT midnight on Wednesday, the tenant out of the flat while been a lot worse, it shows that Tuesday 9am – 1pm; 2pm – 4.30pm IN FIRE 14 October when the managing the safety of other the partnership working with Wednesday 1.30pm – 4.30pm fire alarm went off. tenants who had woken up. the local authority, fire Thursday Closed precautions and training have Friday 9am – 1pm; 2pm – 4.30pm The two carers on duty that night When the fire brigade attended, all paid off. Our thanks go to Saturday 9am – 1pm had both received fire safety they used breathing apparatus these two quick-thinking staff.

Follow us on facebook newportcitycouncil...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 3 Newport’s budget challenge her cyllideb Casnewydd NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL PREPARES FOR FURTHER BUDGET CUTS Join the conversation Ymunwch â’r sgwrs

Newport City Council protect some of the most vulnerable Newport residents have and what they think should be the council remains one of the is once again bracing members of the community. unfortunately seen increases in important to the council. best performing in Wales, and itself for further cuts their council tax bills in recent has recently been acknowledged in its funding due to Residents will be only too aware years, but Newport still remains There were some strong, clear and by the Wales Audit Office on-going public sector that Newport is not alone in the second lowest council tax in the consistent messages coming out as the third most improved austerity measures, having to make tough decisions whole of Wales. An average band D of this research, and this powerful local authority in Wales. and is preparing to make about what it can continue to household in Newport pays feedback will shape the proposals more savings in the provide for residents. Councils £1,154; this compares to £1,609 that will be considered this year. When announced in December, next financial year. up and down Wales and across in Neath Port Talbot and £1,635 all budget savings proposals Gwent are in the same difficult in Blaenau Gwent. It is therefore When asked what the council will be subject to a full public This is the fifth consecutive position of having to stop providing important to remember that a could do differently to save money, consultation, and all feedback on year the council will receive a many of the services that people 1% rise in council tax in Newport residents regularly challenge the the proposals will be considered cut in its funding, and it is now expect their councils to offer. is an increase of £11.54, but in Neath council to have less senior by the council’s cabinet. operating with a budget of £60 Port Talbot it is £16.09 and in managers and reduced senior million less, and 1,220 fewer As Newport City Council only Blaenau Gwent it is £16.35 – management salaries. The council has No decisions will be taken on staff when compared to 2010. receives around 20 per cent of 40 per cent more in real terms. taken action in recent years to meet the final budget until the full its income from council tax, these demands. It has streamlined its council meeting in March, when However, even with less money with the remainder coming Ahead of considering where operations, resulting in reduced staff all feedback and consultation coming in, Newport City Council’s from Welsh Government, it can save money, the council has and manager numbers. responses will have been received. budget must still fund around the continued reduction in its again carried out a city-wide All staff salaries have been subject 1,000 different services, and the core funding presents very real budget conversation, an engagement to a full review and appraisal. savings needed are vital to ensure challenges, and unfortunately the process that has seen more than the council can continue to deliver council cannot continue to do 700 residents give their opinions It is also worth remembering that ‘front line services’ and support and everything that it always has done. on what’s important to them even with these challenges,

CYNGOR DINAS CASNEWYDD YN PARATOI AR GYFER TORIADAU CYLLIDEB PELLACH

Mae Cyngor Dinas y cyngor yn parhau i allu darparu i wneud popeth y mae trafodaeth ynghylch gyllideb llai o staff a rheolwyr. Casnewydd unwaith eto’n ‘gwasanaethau rheng flaen’ a erioed wedi gwneud. drwy gydol y ddinas, proses Mae cyflogau’r holl weithlu wedi bod paratoi ar gyfer toriadau chefnogi ac amddiffyn rhai o ’r o ymgysylltu a welodd fwy na yn destun arolwg a gwerthusiad llawn. pellach yn ei gyllideb o gymuned sydd fwyaf agored i niwed. Yn anffodus, mae trigolion 700 o drigolion yn rhoi eu barn ganlyniad i fesurau arbed Casnewydd wedi gweld eu biliau ar yr hyn sy’n bwysig iddynt ac Mae’n werth cofio hefyd er gwaetha’r arian parhaus yn y sector Bydd trigolion yn ymwybodol iawn treth y cyngor yn codi yn ystod y ar beth y maen nhw’n feddwl heriau yma, mae’r cyngor yn parhau gyhoeddus, ac mae’n nad yw Casnewydd ar ei phen ei blynyddoedd diwethaf, ond mae ddylai fod yn bwysig i’r cyngor. i fod ymysg un o’r cynghorau sydd paratoi ar gyfer gwneud hun wrth wneud penderfyniadau Casnewydd yn parhau i dalu’r yn perfformio orau yng Nghymru, ac rhagor o arbedion yn y anodd ynglŷn â’r hyn y mae’n gallu dreth y cyngor isaf ond un drwy Daeth rhai negeseuon clir a mae wedi ei gydnabod gan Swyddfa flwyddyn ariannol nesaf. parhau i ddarparu i drigolion. Mae gydol Cymru. Mae aelwyd ganolig chyson o’r ymchwil, a bydd Archwilio Cymru yn drydedd ar cynghorau ar hyd a lled Gwent a band D yng Nghasnewydd yn talu yr adborth pwerus hwn yn y rhestr o awdurdodau lleol sydd Hon yw’r bumed flwyddyn y olynol Chymru yn yr un sefyllfa anodd £1,154; o’i gymharu â £1,609 ffurfio’r cynigion a fydd yn cael wedi gwella fwyaf yng Nghymru. y mae’r cyngor wedi derbyn toriad o orfod rhoi’r gorau i lawer o’r yng Nghastell-nedd Port Talbot a eu hystyried y flwyddyn hon. i’w gyllideb, ac y mae nawr yn gwasanaethau y mae pobl yn £1,635 ym Mlaenau Gwent. Mae’n Pan gyhoeddir hwy ym mis Rhagfyr, gweithredu gyda chyllideb sydd £60 disgwyl i’w cynghorau i’w cynnig. bwysig cofio felly bod cynnydd Pan ofynnir iddynt beth gall y bydd pob cynnig arbedion y gyllideb miliwn yn is, a gyda 1,220 yn llai o 1 y cant mewn treth y cyngor cyngor ei wneud yn wahanol i yn destun ymgynghoriad cyhoeddus o weithwyr o’i gymharu â 2010. Gan fod Cyngor Dinas Casnewydd yng Nghasnewydd yn gynnydd o arbed arian, mae trigolion yn llawn, ac ystyrir yr holl adborth ar ond yn derbyn tua 20 y cant o’i £11.54, ond yng Nghastell-nedd herio’r cyngor yn rheolaidd i gael y cynigion gan gabinet y cyngor. Fodd bynnag, er ei fod yn derbyn incwm o dreth y cyngor, gyda’r Port Talbot y mae’n £16.09 ac ym llai o uwch reolwyr a chyflogau llai o arian, mae’n rhaid i gyllideb gweddill yn dod o Lywodraeth Mlaenau Gwent mae’n £16.35 - is i uwch reolwyr. Mae’r cyngor Ni wneir penderfyniadau ynghylch Cyngor Dinas Casnewydd Cymru, mae’r gostyngiad parhaus 40% yn fwy mewn termau real. wedi gweithredu yn y blynyddoedd y gyllideb terfynol nes y cyfarfod ariannu tua 1,000 o wasanaethau yn ei gyllid craidd yn cyflwyno diwethaf i gwrdd â’r galwadau cyngor llawn ym mis Mawrth, pan gwahanol. Mae’r arbedion yn heriau gwirioneddol. Yn anffodus Cyn ystyried lle gall arbed yma. Mae wedi symleiddio ei fydd yr holl adborth ac ymatebion angenrheidiol er mwyn sicrhau fod nid yw’r cyngor yn gallu parhau arian, mae’r cyngor wedi cynnal weithrediadau, gan arwain at nifer i’r ymgynghoriad wedi eu derbyn.

Newport schoolchildren Pupils wrote up manifestos which school from their peers and got a taste of democracy they presented to their peers, bring them to the school council in action when they voting slips were created and polling meetings for discussion. PRIMARY PUPILS organised an election for stations set up so that children their school council. throughout the school were able The ideas will be debated CAST THEIR to cast their first ever vote. and a list drawn up. FIRST VOTE The children of Llanmartin Primary School took part in an It is the job of each school The school council will meet with the election to choose their school council member to gather ideas school governors during the academic council representatives. about improvements to the year and present ideas to them.

4 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 THE COUNCIL’S IMPROVEMENT PLAN

Newport City Council place for businesses to set up, at Foundation Phase, Key Stage is committed to making allowing established businesses the 2, Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 as the city a better place chance to grow and making the city well as helping younger children to live and has drawn up a destination for tourism, culture, to have a flying start in life by an improvement plan sport and retail. offering eligible parents free quality which residents are being childcare for two to three year olds, asked to comment on. The strategy also provides support parenting support, an enhanced for the newly developed Business health visitor service and support Schemes supporting older people Improvement District (BID), for early language development. on leaving hospital, helping carers Newport Now, alongside continuing to balance their lives with their to secure external funding for One of the biggest challenges role, improving care and support regeneration programmes. facing the council is increasing for adults, regeneration of the Supporting young people into the amount of items households city, helping parents and young education, employment or recycle across the city – at present children through the flying start training is being done through around 30 per cent of households scheme and through education programmes developed through fail to recycle anything. programmes are among the topics the WBLA (Work Based Learning you can share your thoughts on. Academy) which is a skills Reducing anti-social behaviour and development organisation launched offending by using Out of Court Developing and regenerating the city by Newport City Council. Disposals to divert young people is covered elsewhere in Newport from the criminal justice system, Matters, but under the improvement The council wants to improve reducing re-offending and reducing the plan the council is still committed the number of pupils achieving proportion of young people sentenced to making the city an attractive the expected level of attainment to custody is also a priority.

FINDING RESIDENTS BELIEVE NEWPORT IS HOUSING BECOMING A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE SOLUTIONS IN NEWPORT New statistics released by The face of Newport is evolving Newport City Council show dramatically across the whole that people living in Newport of the city with several exciting think the city is becoming developments completed and more Recent changes have been these circumstances and has been If you are a landlord looking a better place to live. underway. And it is encouraging introduced by the Welsh working with a number of private to rent out accommodation, to see that these physical changes Government under the landlords in the Newport area to the council is keen to hear from you. In a recent survey of more than are also improving people’s Housing (Wales) Act 2014 identify suitable accommodation Officers can explain the services 300 people, more than twice the perceptions of where they live. which change how the council for individuals, providing financial provided and other options number of people who responded helps individuals who are help and practical support. open to landlords for in the same survey carried out Having submitted a successful either homeless or at risk letting accommodation. in April 2013, said they thought bid, Newport City Council is also of being made homeless. As a result,102 homeless households Newport was improving. using £15 million from the Welsh were helped into private rented housing Contact Catherine Griffiths Government’s Vibrant and Viable The council has a legal duty to offer between April and the end of September or Andrew Hale on More than half of those in the Places regeneration programme. help and assistance to individuals in 2015, and that help is continuing. 01633 656656 survey – 58 per cent – now agree that Newport is becoming This will ensure that key a better place to live. properties in the city centre will be transformed, converting NEWPORT PUPILS REWARDED FOR PERFECT ATTENDANCE RECORDS More people also agree that they them into new homes and are proud to come from Newport space for business start-ups. and the city is seen as being on Four pupils who did not miss attendance record received a the up thanks to the many new It will also unlock another a day of school in 2014/15 certificate for their achievement. developments taking place, £45 million of external investment were each presented with offering visitors plenty of in city centre projects to ensure a new iPad, kindly donated A winner was drawn from each of the places in which to shop the transformation of the city by Admiral, by Mayor four key stages, and they were Janella and enjoy eating out. continues over the coming years. Councillor Herbie Thomas. Belen, of St Patrick’s RC Primary, Lacey Clifford, of Primary, More than 670 pupils across the Morgan Walker, of Bassaleg School and city’s schools with a 100 per cent Majid Al-Jeroudi, of Lliswerry High.

Follow us on twitter @newportcouncil...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 5 FRIARS WALK HAS ARRIVED AS CONFIDENCE ROCKETS

In less than two years, space of time and it is a tribute are preparing to welcome shoppers; parts of the city centre and new a demolition site has to all those who have worked and, of course, the council staff and homes being created in landmark been replaced with a 21st so hard to get to this point. councillors who have supported the buildings. Our regeneration work century retail and leisure scheme despite the challenges.” will continue but we are now on the destination that has put “The centre was 85 per cent let runway to success and everyone Newport on the map. by the day of opening – Councillor John Richards, Cabinet involved can be rightly proud a considerable achievement – Member for Regeneration of what has been achieved.’ January 2014 saw the and more are expected to sign and Investment, added: blowing up of the derelict up in the coming months. Capitol car park – a symbol “This is a fine example of how local of the old making way for “There will undoubtedly be some government, both staff and elected the new with a big bang. finishing touches still to be made members, can do something on but the important thing is that behalf of residents and businesses. Before that, Newport had a long Friars Walk is open ahead of and sometimes bumpy ride to Christmas, making this a very “This has been delivered by secure its vision of a new scheme special festive season for the city. a team of people – the council, to revitalise the city centre. Queensberry Real Estate and “Newport has been waiting for a contractors Bowmer and Kirkland. However, once the funding scheme like this for 40 years and we was secured thanks to a £90 are finally there. I’m sure that people “Many people wrote Newport off million loan from the city council will flock to the city centre for the big a few years ago and it was a difficult to development partners names and the independents, both in time for everyone but the council Queensberry Real Estate, Friars Friars Walk and the wider city centre. was determined to drive the scheme Walk took shape very quickly. forward and that commitment and “I would like to thank all those who perseverance has now paid off. Councillor Bob Bright, Leader of have made our vision a reality: our Newport City Council, said: development partners Queensberry “The feeling of confidence is “It is absolutely remarkable that so Real Estate; contractors Bowmer spreading beyond Friars Walk with much has been done in such a short and Kirkland; the businesses that new businesses opening up in other

A time capsule buried in Walk site to watch Newport’s work, school ties, letters to by Mr Obama, the new Friars Walk retail Mayor, Councillor Herbie “people in the future”, photographs Prince Charles and leisure scheme will give Thomas, bury the capsule. of the city centre and the and the Prime Minister. PUPILS future generations a glimpse Newport Monopoly game. HELPED FILL of life in Newport today. The time capsule was the idea of Another DVD contains Councillor Majid Rahman and he There were also photographs from a film of pupils from , FRIARS WALK Schools in the city contributed also attended the ceremony. when Newport hosted the Nato and St Joseph’s RC TIME CAPSULE items for the time capsule which summit in 2014. President Barack comprehensive schools is due to be opened in 50 years. Schools were invited to submit Obama visited Mount Pleasant talking about why they were items and their contributions Primary School and pupils from city looking forward to the Pupils representing the participating included DVDs of school concerts, schools were guests at a summit opening of Friars Walk and schools were invited to the Friars memory sticks containing their event at the Celtic Manor attended why Newport is a city on the rise.

6 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 How we got here

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Queensberry Real Estate was Debenhams, Next, Topshop Demolition began in In January, the former Newport City Council Leader, selected as the council’s preferred and Cineworld sign up. Planning Square and Upper Dock Street. Capitol car park was demolished. Cllr Bob Bright, opened Friars Walk development partner. permission was granted in May. Full council agreed to make a Construction began in the spring. on 12 November, quickly followed commercial loan of £90 million to by Julien Macdonald who officially QRE to enable works to proceed. opened Debenams.

The £117 million Friars Walk eight-screen Cineworld cinema welcomed a wide range of dishes while Greggs, A new bowling alley is set development will create 1,200 shoppers, diners and film-goers. Coffee #1 and Krispy Kreme were to open early next year. jobs on site. Newport’s shopping available for those wanting a quick catchment area will grow from Debenhams, Topshop, New Look, coffee or bite to eat. Christmas 211,000 to 367,000 with an estimated River Island, Mothercare, Schuh, opening times are: footfall of 10 to 12 million per year, The Body Shop and Tiger were among Others, including M&S Food, and it will double retail sales in the those ready for the shoppers. Sketchers, Holland and Barrett Shopping: city adding £100 million per year. and Vodaphone, were due Monday to Friday 9am – 8pm Family-friendly restaurants to open over the coming weeks Saturday 9am – 7pm From opening day, 25 of Friars Walk Las Iguanas, Nandos, TGI Fridays, GBK as they continued to fit out their Sunday and Bank Holiday stores, six restaurants and the and Le Bistro Pierre were serving up new premises. 10am – 5pm

Outside Friars Walk, of – toy shop The Entertainer has moved a number of new businesses the splendid Victorian building with into Austin Friars and Burger King SPREADING have sprung to life or are its excellent independent traders. is serving customers nearby. THE FEELING getting ready to open in the city centre. Work is continuing on the former The VVP programme has also GOOD ABOUT King’s Hotel to create smart new seen Buildings on NEWPORT In High Street, retailer Bibi Bags apartments, offices and retail Commercial Street restored to its began trading this autumn and units as part of the Vibrant and former glory, while the former King FACTOR new bar and grill Slipping Jimmy’s Viable Places (VVP) programme. William pub overlooking Mariner’s has opened, while Green has been refurbished to Brewery is getting ready to Sports Direct and Pound World provide apartments and a smart new open on the High Street side have opened in Commercial Street, coffee shop on the ground floor.

Follow us on facebook newportcitycouncil...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 7 They may be just the Last year, Wastesavers collected leftovers from your kitchen, more than 4,000 tonnes of food CHRISTMAS but to the people at Biogen waste from houses in Newport. in Bryn Pica your food This provided enough power RECYCLING HOW YOUR waste is a valuable fuel. to supply 400 houses with COLLECTION electricity for a year and enough Wastesavers collects 17 tonnes fertilizer to grow wheat for more DATES FOOD WASTE of food waste in Newport every than 3,000 loaves of bread. day. This gets sent off to Biogen where it is put into a large sealed If you don’t use the food Usual day Changed to IS MAKING silo and gently heated. The rotting recycling service, Christmas Fri 25 Dec Sun 27 Dec food gives off methane gas which is an ideal time to start. Fri 1 Jan Sat 2 Jan is captured and used to generate ELECTRICITY electricity. Biogen feeds the Food waste is collected weekly. Normal collections electricity produced from your Do you really want those Christmas will take place on 28, 29, 30 and food waste back into the grid – left overs hanging around for two 31 Dec and Monday 4 January. AND LOAVES providing the power to supply weeks in your general waste, or 400 households every year. would you rather they help create electricity and loaves of bread? OF BREAD! After all the gas is extracted, what remains of the food waste is then For further information on turned into fertilizer through food waste and other recycling the process of pasteurisation information visit to destroy any bacteria. www.newport.gov.uk/recycling

Hundreds of residents are As a council, we know that not HANDHELD TECHNOLOGY TO BOOST TROLLEY BOX taking part in a trial aimed one size fits all which is why a trial at making recycling is needed. The project is a joint COUNCIL STREETSCENE EFFICIENCY TRIAL household items one between the council and much easier. Wastesavers which was started on October 26. Newport City Council has then investigate further. Councillor Some councils have found that giving introduced innovative new Deborah Davies, Cabinet Member residents a ‘trolley box’ can help. Those households chosen handheld technology in for Streetscene and City Services, said: to take part have received a conjunction with Yotta, a The High Cross area of trolley box and instructions and specialist software provider, “The introduction of this technology Newport has been chosen to trial details of what is involved. to revolutionise the way its has completely changed the way the scheme because of their Streetscene and City Services our teams can work. Not only is it recycling habits – some are Anyone wanting to find out more department operates. enabling us to maximise our employees’ excellent recyclers, some recycle about the trial can visit time, it’s reducing the environmental a bit and some residents are not the website This new technology has enabled impact and providing cost savings.” so enthusiastic about recycling. www.wastesavers.co.uk smarter links between customer requests and front-line service This project was delivered following High Cross also has a good mix There is a Facebook group response and delivery. As soon as a successful application to Welsh of housing types, a range of residents can join. a member of the public reports any Government’s Invest to Save scheme age groups ranging from elderly issue to the council, details of this and is one of several new measures households to young families, Taking part is not compulsory but the can be sent to the nearest team by the council to improve, modernise plus a variety of streets, from council and Wastesavers hope as many member on the ground who can and streamline its services. busy main roads to quiet closes. people as possible will give it a go.

Communities First have been The Communities First team helped Since getting her job, her life has There are three community COMMUNITIES running job clubs in Newport her develop a good CV, assisted changed a lot. She has had the based sessions per week in since July 2013. They were her with job searching and completing opportunity to sort out finances local libraries and community FIRST – set up to help people with application forms. They also and her children are saying centres that cater for job seekers job searching and general provided her with training courses how much she’s changed. ages 16 years upwards. HELPING employment support as and supported her by helping PEOPLE GET well as CV development, to build her confidence. “I am so much happier now • Shaftesbury Community Centre: advice on completing - I couldn’t be out of work again. Mondays, 1–3pm BACK applications, interview The following months saw a massive I love my job so much, and all the skills and funding for improvement in her skills, girls I work with. I’m working in the • Bettws Library: INTO WORK employment related training. her confidence and self-belief. Cwmbran store at the moment but Tuesdays, 1.30 – 3.30pm HB started to apply for roles the management has offered me A service user, known as HB, more suited to her interests, and a job in Newport in the new Friars • Malpas Court: had attended the job club for after a number of interviews she Walk store. They are fantastic with Thursdays, 12.30 – 2.30pm around twelve months. As a single gained employment with Pandora, me and changed my store to suit parent who had been out of a luxury jewellery retail outlet. me and my kids, which is great.” There is also a Youth Job Club which work for a number of years, she runs on a Tuesday at Newport City came to the job club with a keen “Job club has been fabulous for the “Communities First has changed Homes Offices, Bettws, 11am –12pm interest in retail, but did not think 12 months I have been going there. my life. Your support and the she could get a role in this sector. Very helpful and also when not in job courses and everything changed She lacked confidence and had club, always here to help me with my my life completely. I tell everyone limited computer skills and didn’t job search. Thank you a lot everyone how amazing you’ve all been think she would get employment. (Katie and Laura have been to me and how I’ve got this job She didn’t really know where to fab) I have a job at Pandora now. Thank you so much to start when she first arrived. - 20 hours per week.” everyone that has helped me.”

8 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 CHRISTMAS PANTO

It wouldn’t be Christmas forces with The Riverfront to Visitors can cheer the hero on Also joining the cast will be Tuesday 1 December to Sunday, without a visit to a traditional stage the annual pantomime. as Jack and his loyal companion Simon Nock, who will be playing 3 January, 2016, with tickets pantomime where we can Daisy the Cow leave their farm Jack’s mum, Dame Trott, with ranging in price from £6 to £18. laugh at the outrageous Local actor Gareth Tempest to try to raise some money, get plenty of outrageous outfits costumes and jokes and get is playing the lead role of all mixed up with trying to trade to be seen throughout. More information is available on ready to boo the baddie. Jack, with Riverfront favourite with magic beans which grow The Riverfront’s website at Elin Llwyd returning to play into a huge beanstalk and try The partnership of The Riverfront newportlive.co.uk/ And luckily for those of us living the show’s heroine, Jill. to outwit the grumpy giant. and Hiss & Boo is hoping to build riverfront and via the booking in Newport, fun for all the family on the success of last year’s hugely line on 01633 656757. is guaranteed this festive season The hilarious and talented There will be plenty of laughs popular Dick Whittington panto, when Jack and the Beanstalk Richard Elis is Dylan the Daft, on offer as usual and lots of and will once again be prepared to The Riverfront is looking forward opens at The Riverfront theatre. with the experienced chances to boo the villain, perform in front of sell-out audiences. to audiences sharing their panto Nerine Skinner donning Patrick Marlowe, playing the evil memories and experiences on The popular theatre company the glitter and sparkle, and a Fleshcreep, performing in The The panto, which is suitable Twitter using the #riverfrontpanto Hiss and Boo is once again joining fabulous frock, to play the Fairy. Riverfront panto for the first time. for all ages, is due to run from – and post those pics!

Visitors to Newport city The party atmosphere continued CHRISTMAS centre are well and truly in when Danter’s funfair opened the Christmas spirit by now. along the Riverfront Walk, ensuring LIGHTS there was plenty to do all evening A week after the multi million in and around the city centre. pound Friars Walk development opened, the fun continued With a host of new places in with Newport City Council’s which to eat and drink to suit Christmas lights switch on event. the tastes of all people, it is time Councillor Herbie Thomas was to see how much Newport has joined by Newport Rock Choir changed over the last 12 months who sang Christmas carols, and and take a look around the national, there were performances from local and independent retailers members of Gwent Music. who are trading in the city.

Adding to the fun were rugby players from Newport Gwent Dragons who were in the city to meet their fans.

Get into the Christmas spirit For an alternative celebration, check At 4.30pm you can enjoy with a trip to Caerleon on out the ancient Roman festival Carols on the Common, CHRISTMAS Saturday 12 December. entitled Saturnalia – which in Roman with Caerleon Comprehensive IN CAERLEON times was a period of merrymaking School brass band, until 6pm. Pick up a host of goodies and and the predecessor of Christmas fresh produce at a Farmers’ – at the National Roman Legion Belshazzar’s Feast at the Market at Caerleon Town Museum from 11am to 4pm. Town Hall can be enjoyed Hall from 10am to 4pm. from 7.30pm until late. However, the official launch of A Christmas fair takes place from Christmas is timed to take place If the weather is bad noon until 3pm at Charles Williams at 4pm when Santa is due to some events may Primary School. arrive at Caerleon Common. be cancelled.

Follow us on twitter @newportcouncil...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 9 Friends sessions take place on: Wednesday 9 December, 11am - Caerleon Town Hall, NEWS FROM ONE OF Thursday 14 January 2016, 2pm - Ringland Community Centre; Tuesday 9 February, THE MAYOR’S CHOSEN CHARITIES 11am - Community House, NEWS FROM ZOE BAGGOTT, ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH UK REGIONAL FUNDRAISING OFFICER Eton Road, Tuesday 23 February, 2pm - Centre Thursday 10 March, Since Alzheimer’s Research presentations to community groups “This group is the first of its kind with dementia and how to help and 2pm - Malpas Court UK was named as one of and attended a number of events, for our charity in Wales and turn that understanding into action. the Mayor’s charities this such as Beating the Retreat at represents a lasting legacy from Anyone wishing to find out more year, regional fundraising Newport Barracks and the 50 plus the Mayor’s term of office. The or who wants to join the officer Zoe Baggott has day at . group will also be raising awareness Newport Group can contact Zoe: been working hard to raise of dementia at their fundraising zoe.baggott@ awareness of dementia “By far the biggest news though events which will contribute to alzheimersresearchuk.org across Newport and promote is that we have launched an the Mayor’s ambition to make or telephone 07469 852501 the work of the charity. Alzheimer’s Research UK Newport Newport a dementia friendly city.” Group which is dedicated to The Mayor’s other charities “I have distributed health information raising money to fund pioneering More than 700 people have this year are Diabetes UK and literature to care homes, delivered dementia research. This really attended Dementia Friends sessions in Madzimai Pamwe - Zimbabwe a number of dementia awareness is exciting news for the city. Newport to learn what it’s like to live Wales Women’s Partnership.

September saw the return to a group of interested local creating an accessible area for this of traditional horse logging residents and school children. season’s coppicing in a low impact HORSE POWER at Ladyhill Wood at an and environmentally friendly way. event to celebrate the start Horse logging offers an efficient and COMES BACK of the coppicing season. flexible approach to timber extraction The coppicing project at Ladyhill Wood TO NEWPORT with a wide range of both traditional in Alway is the first of its kind in city Horse logger Kate Mobbs-Morgan and modern equipment available. council-owned woodland. Horse logging WOOD and her Ardennes Draft horse offers a low impact and sympathetic Kipp, demonstrated the traditional The trees were felled by tree solution, particularly when it comes to art of felling and extracting surgeon Marco Pallisco and then the management of ancient woodland trees using just horse power carefully removed by Kipp and Kate, and archaeologically important sites.

NEWPORT REGENERATION PROJECTS HELPING PEOPLE INTO JOBS AND HOMES

Renovation work included creating a modern learning zone and IT suite, as well as upgrading the front of house areas and catering facilities.

As part of the ambitious project, the existing Millennium Trust social enterprise was also developed to provide high- quality employment and training opportunities for residents and support for local start-up businesses.

The Minister also visited 62-66 Road, Newport – a prominent historic building which had fallen into disrepair. Welsh Government Minster With more than £890,000 from Lesley Griffiths visited two of the Welsh Government, the Newport’s completed Vibrant building has been transformed and Viable Places projects. by the Seren Group into 15 high quality affordable homes. Pillgwenlly Millennium Centre has been transformed into a successful The £1.5m project has uplifted employment and training hub, an area previously affected backed with £258,000 through by anti-social behaviour, and the Welsh Government’s Vibrant created training and employment and Viable Places Programme. for four apprentices.

10 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 Riverfront Theatre 01633 656757

WHAT’S ON… Tuesday 1 December and Friday 4 December Wednesday 2 December – January 9, 2016 at 3pm & 7.45pm Christmas Creatives Screening of Suffragette (12A) Exhibition, The Gallery A collection of screen prints, Newport Museum Tuesday 1 December photography, original artworks and Art Gallery to Sunday 3 January 2016 as well as ceramics and gifts from 01633 656656 Jack and the Beanstalk makers in Wales and beyond. Tickets from £6 to £18 Call 01633 656679 Friday 11 December for exact dates, times, availability Sessions Boutique Market Newport Cathedral Stalls and Open Mic Night at St Woolos Wednesday 2 December 7pm – 11pm 01633 212077 Lunchtime classical: Olivia To book a stall, perform or for Gomez and Ben Pinnow more info call 01633 656757 1pm tickets £5.50 or email: Now until April 16, 2016 [email protected] 140 years of Newport RFC Thursday 3 December The Friends of Newport Rugby English National Opera: Comedy Shed – Phil Jerrod, Trust have been working in The Mikado, Michael Fabbri in The Studio partnership with the Newport 7.30pm, screened live Doors open 7.45pm first act Museum and Art Gallery to create £12.50 8.15pm Tickets £12.50 an exhibition celebrating 140 years of Newport RFC, marking the ups and downs of this historic rugby Saturday 12 December, football club. On display will be Concert by Gwent an outstanding collection of rugby Schools Musicians memorabilia from Newport RFC, (Gwent Music Support). together with audio and visual exhibits. Price: free admission with a leaving collection e-mail: [email protected] Price: free admission Saturday 9 January, 2016 Recital by Peter West (Baritone)

On now until Saturday 23 January, 2016 Exhibition: James Flewitt Mullock 01633 656757 James Flewitt Mullock is one of Newport’s most significant 19th Century artists. Born in 1818, he Thursday 3 December witnessed the Chartist rising and Pretty Vicious experienced the unprecedented A young rock four piece from industrial and commercial growth Merthyr Tydfil of Newport. Newport Museum and Art Gallery cares for numerous Saturday 12 December of James Flewitt Mullock’s works. Darren ‘Graceland Jones’ Some watercolour drawings Tribute to the 50s and 60s and lithographs are shown in Christmas party also featuring this exhibition. Dave Wickenden, The Beat Goes On – Beatles Tribute e-mail: [email protected] Price: free admission

On now until Thursday, Newport Wetlands May 19, 2016 01633 636363 Exhibition – War, What is it Good For? As the song says, Saturday 19 December ‘absolutely nothing’. But is that true? to 31 December As horiffic as war is, are lessons learnt? Christmas Nature Crafts A small exhibition that explores some of the positive as well as Friday 1 January negative things that might never New Years Day Walk have happened if we hadn’t gone to war. Museum opening times Saturday 2 January Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 2-5pm and Sunday 3 January Christmas Nature Crafts e-mail: [email protected] Price: free admission Website For more details tel: 0300 111 2333 www.rspb.org.uk

Follow us on facebook newportcitycouncil...... NEWPORT MATTERS DECEMBER 2015 11 12 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS NOVEMBER 2015