JNanuarey 201w4 pThe officiral ntew spaMper ofa Newtpotrt Ceity Crous ncil Big bang clears the way Inside... for Friars Walk to begin

New jobs coming to city

Going...going...gone. The Capitol car park was demolished earlier this month to make way for the new Friars Walk. Newport’s Capitol car park was development will begin shortly. second period. disruption for local businesses and the demolished earlier this month by “The car park has been standing Cuddy managing director, Mike surrounding community and have a controlled explosion. for more than 30 years in the city but Cuddy, was delighted that everything ensured there has been ongoing cabinet it is important that we now look had gone exactly to plan, he said: consultation at every stage in our ahead to the next exciting chapter of "Demolition is a very serious business planning and preparation. I am New wardens on member for infrastructure, Councillor patrol Ken Critchley, said: “Friars Walk has the city’s history.” and safety is always the number one delighted that the explosion went officially started with a bang with the Experts from Cuddy Group drilled priority. It may only take a second or according to plan and that the clean explosion of the capitol car park. The 750 holes in strategic positions all over two for the building to fall but the down programme can now begin in removal of the car park represents a six floors of the car park. A charge was amount of preparation and co- earnest." significant stage in the demolition inserted into each hole, over 35kg of ordination that goes into an event like The debris from the car park will programme and construction of the detonating cord explosive in all, and today is vast. now be cleared and construction work eagerly awaited Friars Walk delay detonators set off over a one “We were keen to ensure minimal on Friars Walk will start shortly. City centre regeneration projects making a big difference Several major city centre bus terminus in Upper Dock Street Walk development. of . regeneration projects were just behind the market and it is While work takes place on the The £1million project, funded scheme, bus services will continue by , refurbished completed or took major steps expected that this will be used by New year forward in Newport last year between two and three million to operate from temporary stops the foyer and units in this part of gym offer and 2014 is set to see more passengers a year. around the city centre. the grade-two listed building. A exciting projects and It will eventually link with Councillor Cliff Suller new central entrance was created developments taking shape. another new terminus being also officially opened the flanked by smart new units topped Buses are now using the new constructed as part of the Friars transformed High Street entrance by brightly coloured canopies. Flood scheme for 700 Newport homes Late last year, parts of the UK flood schemes and flood Most recently, properties in the area. experienced the worst coastal warnings saved many from the were flooded by a tidal surge For more information on flood flooding for 60 years. devastating impacts of flooding. that came very close to affecting defence work in Newport, see the Fortunately, improvements to hundreds of homes and business in full story on page 9. Focus on Communities First

Recycle for Newport – pop me in your blue recycling box Changing face of city centre Here are a selection of images showing work to transform the city centre in readiness for Friars Walk.

City centre businesses open Businesses in and around Friars Street, Austin Friars, Corn Square, Street and Llanarth Street – as well as including shops, cafes, those parts of John Frost Square and Upper Dock Street which are not part solicitors and banks, are of the redevelopment area – are still trading as usual while work accessible from Commercial Street. on the new Friars Walk A safe route to is shopping and leisure available via Corn Street and along Kingsway.

. scheme takes place. .

. New jobs on the

y way in Newport

t Work is progressing on a Newport can be very proud.” The reclamation of the Old Town i brand new pub and restaurant in Newport that will Dock was one of the first projects undertaken by Newport Unlimited c create 40 new jobs. when it was formed in 2003. Since Located in the Old Town Dock area then, the area has been transformed the pub and restaurant will offer with a £200 million redevelopment

g quality fresh beer and value for money programme, including residential authentic fresh pub food. The pub is developments and a riverside park. In as yet unnamed but will seat 180 June, proposals were revealed by the n diners. developer Sennybridge to transform the i Newport Unlimited, Newport’s area into a sustainable suburb urban regeneration company, including new retail, leisure and office

g facilitated the sale of the site. Paul space as well as a health centre, houses Tarling, head of development at and apartments. Newport Unlimited, said: “We are The pub is due for completion in n delighted to welcome Marston’s to May. Newport and in particular to The Old

a Town Dock where the company Laura Barnes, from Marston’s clearly foresees a bright future. Inns and Taverns with Councillor “The area has undergone extensive John Richards, Newport City h regeneration over the last few years Council cabinet member for and its transformation from derelict regeneration and development land to an attractive investment and Paul Tarling of Newport C opportunity is something of which Unlimited

2 For the latest news visit www.newport.gov.uk NEWPORT MATTERS Council protects residents from storm surge risk Newport City Council and in advance by Floodline who Actions included: • Teams of experts from Natural Paul Cockeram, ward councillor partners successfully alerted property owners to the flood • A full evacuation of 140 Resources and Newport City for Shaftsbury actively monitored delivered a coordinated plan risk and were fully supported by properties and rehousing of around Council on the ground at key the situation in the Crindau area to safeguard residents in four the council as part of a multi- 30 residents from Lighthouse Park locations and assisted with the evacuation areas of the city that were agency task force activated to deal • Social services support team • Extended opening hours of the alert. with such events. for elderly and vulnerable people identified to be at a high risk council’s contact centre, to provide A few pockets of isolated flooding Notice of the decision to issue • Door-to-door evacuation visits information and reassure residents were experienced in Newport as the of flooding earlier this month. this warning also triggered made to all houses in the affected With the help of Gwent Police, city braced itself for some of the This involved a comprehensive Newport City Council’s emergency Crindau area Welsh Ambulance Service and highest tidal levels in recent years. operation which placed the safety flood plan which saw specialist • Monitoring patrols at key Newport Transport all evacuation Despite recording a tidal high of of clearly identified groups of teams and council resources points along the River Usk plans were swiftly completed the 8.02 metres, only a few properties Newport residents at the heart of delivered directly to the affected • Deployment of sandbags to evening before the expected high in Crindau experienced water the actions. areas. vulnerable locations and properties tide and surge. Evacuated ingress and a low-lying stretch of All affected areas were identified properties were also given Road running from St appropriate police protection. Julian’s Inn to The Ship public Many council staff came back house was closed due to surface LDP moves to next stage early off annual leave or water run-off. volunteered to help late into the Council officers have visited night to deliver the critical strands homes in Crindau to advise on and essential parts of the next steps including advice on emergency plan. Newport Centre disposal of damaged property and staff quickly prepared the venue to any concerns regarding be used as a rescue centre. environmental health. Councillor Bob Bright, Leader of If you are ever concerned Newport City Council, visited about flood risks in your area Crindau as the evacuation then you can contact Natural operation developed, and Resources Wales progressed on to Newport Centre to www.naturalresourceswales. support council staff and to meet gov.uk or call the Floodline on the evacuated residents. Councillor 0845 988 1188.

Newport City Council has transport, employment, retail, north to follow the existing M4. approved the final version gypsy and traveller sites and There is a statutory of the revised deposit waste. requirement to identify transit Local Development Plan It identifies that housing and residential for Gypsy and (LDP) and it will now be provision will be met primarily Traveller sites so the LDP has on previously developed land. A allocated seven transit pitches submitted to the Welsh significant proportion is met by in Celtic Way; 43 residential Government for an housing commitments, i.e. sites pitches on land at Hartridge independent inspector to that already have planning Farm Road and a contingency examine. permission as at 1 October site on the former Ringland It will provide the strategy 2012. Allotments. and policy framework for the To meet the affordable Five major road schemes are development and conservation housing need, 86 per cent of included as well as proposals of Newport until 2026. Once new residential development for a range of public transport adopted, the LDP will be used would need to be affordable improvements including new by the council to guide, housing which would clearly railway stations and the manage and grant development not be viable so the revised LDP expansion of the National Cycle and provides the basis on which seeks 30 per cent affordable Route. planning applications are housing on new residential The public examination is determined. developments. likely to take place in the first The plan provides details on a It retains the greenbelt on the half of this year and the range of issues including boundary with Cardiff and inspector’s report is expected in housing, sustainability, includes a small extension to November before the LDP is affordable housing, the greenbelt from the previous formally adopted by the council environment, green belt, unitary development plan to the in December.

NEWPORT MATTERS For council enquiries call 01633 656 656 3 February half City half marathon term fun Christmas may now seem like under 17 years old. a distant memory but don’t • Holiday club – childcare for worry, February half term is children aged 5-12 years at nearly here. Newport International Sports There are lots of fun and Village from 8.30am-5.30pm for exciting things to take part in. just £19 a day. Here’s just a taster of what you • Playschemes – lots of activities can look forward to: including mini Eisteddfod • Welsh story time and crafts - competitions Listen to stories from Wales and There is something for everyone make your own origami daffodil or to enjoy, children, young people dragon in libraries across Newport. and families. This is a free activity. To find out more information • Leeks and daffodils arts and and for details about other crafts – A chance to create activities just keep an eye out for something to celebrate St David's the February half term activity Day at The Riverfront Theatre. brochure, distributed to • Free swim – swim for free in schools, leisure centres and any of Newport’s leisure centres libraries or visit every day, including weekends. www.newport.gov.uk/holidayfun The second City of Newport half fundraising event supporting Please note this is for youngsters or call 01633 656 757. marathon will take place on hospice care for everyone in the Sunday 2 March and this year community, there is no minimum will be supported by Admiral. amount of sponsorship to raise. The half marathon is a great However, participants are asked way to start your running year, that they endeavour to raise as

. and good training for those who much as they can as every penny really does count. . are training for a spring marathon. The 2014 route was Please note that raising . not confirmed at the time Newport sponsorship for St David’s Hospice Matters went to press – look out Care is not compulsory and you e for more updates in the coming are very welcome to fund raise for

r weeks. any charity of your choice. Entry costs just £24 and while For more information visit the half marathon is a www.stdavidshospicecare.org u

s Riverfront start for i Sport Relief mile JMW Turner? e A temporary exhibition to and Art Newport will again host the Entrants don’t have to be sporty to showing sketches attributed Gallery.

L Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile take part, but can choose to complete to JMW Turner from the The sketches relate to places in one, three or six miles knowing that which will take place on Sunday Europe including modern-day all the money raised will help to collections of Newport 23 March and you can show Germany, France, Italy and the your support by entering at change the lives of people living Museum and Art Gallery are currently on show. Netherlands. Some are no more

& unimaginably tough lives right here www.sportrelief.com than rough impressions or

on our doorstep, across the rest of the In 1926 Edmund Brewer- Starting outside the Riverfront outline drawings; others contain UK and in some of the world’s poorest Williams lent a collection of

t Theatre you can walk, jog or run (or handwritten annotations and countries. over 500 ink and pencil sketches hop, skip, jump) along the River Usk meticulous detail. It is possible

r If you'd like any help in getting to Newport Museum and Art taking in the best views Newport has that they originate from a fitter in preparing for your challenge Gallery. The sketches are to offer. number of sketchbooks, taken and have some fun along the way, recorded as being the work of o As one of the UK’s biggest apart in the past for ease of Newport's leisure facilities offer a wide British landscape painter, JMW fundraising events, Sport Relief distribution or display. range of activities to help you Turner (1775-1851), and some

p brings the entire nation together to including swimming, fitness classes, of them carry the artist’s 18 January - 14 June 2014 get active, raise cash and change lives gyms or even a round of golf. signature. When Edmund Newport Museum and Art – so it’s time to dust off those trainers

S Find out more at Brewer-Williams died in 1945, Gallery and enter. www.newport.gov.uk/activenewport his wife donated the collection Free admission

4 www.newport.gov.uk [email protected] NEWPORT MATTERS Kick start your new year with seven days for £7 with Active Newport Newport City Council is currently running a special offer where you can work out in the gym, enjoy a swim or choose from more than 100 weekly fitness classes at Newport Centre, Newport International Sports Village (NISV) or Active Living Centre for seven days for just £7. There are three council-run There are more than 100 fitness leisure centres in the city and all classes held each week and range offer state-of-the-art gym from zumba to yoga, boxercise to facilities, fitness classes and aqua and spinning to kettle bells swimming. – there are classes to suit any Try the new gyms at Newport fitness level. Centre and NISV which have just To take up this great offer undergone extensive simply visit your nearest leisure refurbishment and been centre. The offer will be extended. They now boast the available to purchase from 1 very latest Technogym January until 28 February 2014 equipment, Newport’s only and can be used until 31 March ‘Freedom Climber’ climbing wall 2014. can be found at NISV as well as a Please note only one voucher dedicated free weights training can be purchased per person. The This offer is proving extremely popular with more than 500 people taking up seven area. £7 has to be paid up front and on You can take part in a fitness one day you may use the gym, days for £7 in the first ten days of January alone. If you are interested make sure you class or have a leisurely swim as swim and attend a class. don’t delay – visit your nearest leisure centre to find out more. many times as you like over the Find out more at * For full terms and conditions visit www.newport.gov.uk/activenewport seven days. www.newport.gov.uk/activenewport

NEWPORT MATTERS Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/newportcitycouncil 5 Budget goes for council approval Consultation on the council’s Public events were also held in council tax will also be decided. one of the lowest levels of council draft budget proposals has December and January and some Council tax is collected to help pay tax in Wales and the UK for many now ended and we would like very valuable issues were raised for services, but makes up only 12 years. During such challenging to thank everyone who with our senior officers. per cent of the council’s total times rises are difficult to avoid responded and put forward On February 17, Cabinet will income. Rises are effectively but we continue to aim to deliver their views and ideas. meet to again discuss every capped by five per cent each year value to our residents. proposal on the table. They will Cabinet members and officers but unlike , the Welsh For the latest budget then agree a final set of proposals are now reviewing all the feedback Government has not information visit that will be put before full Council received so that it can be fed into recommended a council tax www.newport.gov.uk or follow us at its meeting on 24 February. the next stage of the decision freeze. on Twitter @newportcouncil or At this meeting, the increase in making process. Newport is proud to have had Facebook – Newport City Council. Pupils celebrate Tree Week Innovative housing Primary School Nine-year-old Ayesha Begum also project wins award children helped to celebrate unveiled a plaque marking the housing register. While there is a park’s status as a Queen Elizabeth Newport-based MyPad was National Tree Week in Belle fun element, it also teaches them ll Field. named innovation of the year Vue Park by reading their about the serious responsibilities Her school took part in a writing at the Welsh Housing Awards work in the pavilion and of holding a tenancy. project, supported by Literature 2013. watching a paper bark birch The judges said it was a “very Wales, with poet in residence Ric Launched in May 2012, it is a being planted. successful scheme engaging Hool. partnership between the city council, Supporting People and difficult to reach young groups in four social landlords (Charter a way they value and Housing Association, Melin appreciated.” Homes, Linc-Cyrmu and Newport They added: “This exceptional City Homes). programme is delivering the holy Housing professionals give grail of more sustainable practical pre-tenancy training to tenancies – something which is . young people on the common crucial in the current climate.” . . s w Pupils from Pillgwenlly Primary celebrate National Tree Week e Council walks off with n

animal hero award rescued animals in Newport have t Newport City Council won the public sector category of the been put to sleep except for severe r Animal Hero Awards 2013 after behavioural or medical reasons. being nominated by Hope A spokeswoman for Hope Rescue said: “We are very proud of our o Rescue for its “sustained partnership that ensures the welfare, commitment to animal safety and future of the stray dogs in

p welfare” and its partnership Newport City. Having worked with a with the charity. number of councils over the years, For the last five years, Hope Rescue the Newport City Council stray dog

w has taken all the stray dogs service really stands out as a following the end of the statutory blueprint for how other councils seven days in the council kennels.

e could work.” More than 7,000 stray dogs are The city’s stray dogs service was destroyed annually in the UK but also recognised earlier last year by since the two organisations began N the RSPCA with a silver community working together, none of the animal welfare footprints award.

6 www.newport.gov.uk [email protected] NEWPORT MATTERS Changes to waste and Turning Recycli waste into ng t Ta or rg p e w t recycling collections a resource e N

r

o A new facility in Cardiff is set to f

This year changes to waste and an advice leaflet and details of when bin is still full every fortnight please %

e

l

c u

begin turning Newport’s waste y

recycling collections in Newport the scheme will begin in your area. contact us and we would be happy to c h

e c R 52 l will be extended to all residents. The bags for cardboard will be a advise. that cannot be recycled or gy Ta Ail Our aim is to improve the service on polypropylene material (similar to • All the recyclables collected in composted into valuable rged offer, increase recycling levels and bags in Ikea). They will also have a Newport are sent for recycling in the resources. reduce the amount of waste going to lid so that cardboard will be protected UK, less than 0.1 per cent of materials Prosiect Gwyrdd, a consortium landfill. against the elements. collected at the kerbside cannot be between five councils, has Many residents are not making full If you only use your orange lidded recycled. recently signed a contract with Viridor use of the recycling services and we bin for cardboard, we can remove the • Less than one per cent of your to create green energy from waste. know that almost 50 per cent of the bin when the new scheme starts if you council tax goes to providing waste It will save the partner authorities material going into the rubbish bin is prefer. management services. £11m in the first year of operation and easily recyclable. There is very little Smaller bins • The council has always had a no £500m over the lifetime of the that can’t be recycled at the kerbside As part of the increased recycling side waste policy. If bags of rubbish contract. or at the household waste recycling services we will also be rolling out 180 are placed by the side of bins you The Welsh Government has set centre and we are encouraging litre bins in replacement of the could be given a fixed penalty notice challenging recycling targets which everyone to make that extra effort. standard 240 litre bins. for £100 or fined up to £5,000. are set in law. The contract will deliver Recycling is a positive action that The new bins are slightly narrower • All Welsh authorities are under at least a further five per cent recycling not only benefits the environment but and do not take up as much room huge pressure to increase recycling by extracting any remaining metal can also save you money. and, by participating in all the rates not only Newport. Some and using the incinerator bottom ash Sending waste to landfill is recycling schemes, offer ample councils’ are only allowing two bags (IBA) as aggregate for building expensive for the council and in capacity for a family’s worth of of rubbish or moving to 140 litre bins materials. The facility will also addition, if we do not meet the targets residual waste. with fortnightly collections. Many are generate 28 MW of power which is the set by Welsh Government we are likely If you would like to have a new charging for garden waste collections equivalent electricity needs for 50,000 to be hit with costly fines. bin sooner please contact the or limiting collections to peak homes. Cardboard collections council on 01633 656 656 or visit months. Some are looking at monthly The facility is currently being built Residents will be receiving a new www.newport.gov.uk/recycling collections of rubbish and charging at Trident Park in Cardiff. This sack for cardboard over the coming Did you know... for all other services. solution represents excellent value for year. New legislation on composting • Many of the bins are over five • You can take your rubbish to the money, is safe, tried and tested and is means the council can no longer years old and will go for recycling. Household Waste Recycling Centre but an environmentally sustainable collect garden waste and cardboard in The better quality bins will be reused it still needs to be separated for solution for the remaining rubbish. the same container. Please continue to for other projects such as recycling in recycling, doing this at home and The partner councils will start . use your orange lidded bin for card schools. using the kerbside recycling schemes sending waste to the facility from until you are on the new scheme. • If you are using all the recycling will save you the journey. September 2015 with full service . Your new sack will be delivered with services on offer there should be very For more information visit starting on April 1, 2016. . little left in your rubbish bin. If your www.newport.gov.uk/recycling Visit www.prosiectgwyrdd.co.uk Wardens help keep e

Newport streets cleaner n regrettably, a minority continue to

Newport City Council’s campaign e against litter louts and dog ignore these messages and we are, therefore, taking further action

fouling stepped up with two new c part-time enforcement wardens through fixed penalty notices. “We are determined to reduce this patrolling the streets. s

They have been issuing fixed blight on our local environment and penalty notices to irresponsible dog irresponsible people will risk these sanctions should they not clear up

owners and anyone caught dropping n litter in a public place. after their dogs or continue to drop Councillor Gail Giles, cabinet litter. e member for licensing and statutory Fixed penalty notices carry a £75 functions, said: “Like other fine if paid straight away. There is an councillors, I regularly get complaints appeal procedure but if people choose e not to pay the fine they could be fined about dog mess and litter on our r streets. up to £1,000 at a magistrates court. “We are tackling these problems in Income generated by the notices will go towards paying for the warden a number of ways including raising G Councillor Gail Giles (right) with the two new wardens awareness and education. However, service.

NEWPORT MATTERS Do it online www.newport.gov.uk 7 The Riverfront – 01633 656 757 www.newport.gov.uk/riverfront

Workshops (ongoing) Comedy Shed (28 Feb) The Riverfront plays host to a vast range of workshops with something to The relaxed cabaret style comedy club offers three professional comedians suit all ages, interests and abilities. and the chance to enjoy a drink. Cinema (ongoing) The killing of Sister George: Theatr Pena The Riverfront plays a broad range of films from around the world. We also (5, 6, 7, 8 Mar) have a selection of matinee showings and bring baby showings. 1965, a BBC radio soap is losing listeners, the axe is about to fall and its most popular character is about to face her own personal apocalypse. Age The first time machine (1 Feb) guide 14, various times. Brothers Treays welcome you aboard their time machine for a voyage of a life time. Ages 5+. 11.30am. Russell Kane: Smallness (8 Mar) Well known comedian Russell Kane with his 'smallness' tour. 7.30pm. Circus of Horrors (5 Feb) The Circus of Horrors presents what is undoubtedly its greatest show to date Music Academy Showcase (12 Mar) – London after Midnight. 8pm. The Music Academy works with local artists and community groups to develop their talents, culminating in the academy showcase. 7pm. Met Opera: (8 Feb, 1 Mar, 15 Mar) The hugely popular Metropolitan Opera's Emmy Award winning series of Emily - The making of a militant live performance transmissions are beamed to The Riverfront direct from suffragette (20 Mar) . New York – 1 Feb: Rusalka, 1 Mar: Prince Igor, 15 Mar: Werther. 5.55pm. A year after the centenary of Emily Wilding Davison's death at the Derby, . this iconic but enigmatic suffragette's life is movingly portrayed by

. Motowns greatest hits (8 Feb) Elizabeth Crarer. 7.45pm. The ultimate celebration of the sweet sound of Motown – back by popular t demand. 7.30pm. Grandpa's railway (22 Mar)

r Imagine a railway that fits in one room, but travels the world on a winter's Of mice and men (12, 13, 14 Feb) afternoon. The toot of the whistle, the hiss of the steam, a train full of Tin Shed Theatre Co. tell the story of George Milton and Lenny Small, two adventures, surprises, and dreams! Ages 5+, 2pm and 4pm. o very different men bound together by providence. Various times. Pop up Bowie (22 Mar) Sherlock Holmes – The death and life (20 p Paul Anthony looks and sounds like David Bowie. With his own band he Feb) performs Bowie's greatest hits. 7.30pm. The world's greatest detective refuses to leave the stage! A wryly humorous Sinfonia Cymru (23 Mar)

w tale, of murder, mystery and the occult…7.45pm. A celebration of Strauss’ 150th Anniversary sets the composer’s Joanna Young: Recall (21 Feb) Metamorphosen alongside his buoyant Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme.3pm. e Four performers make their way through a shifting landscape. They transform from self to animal, from the subtle to the extreme. 7.45pm. (26, 27, 28, 29 Mar) Under Milk Wood is a work of genius; ripe with vitality, rich in humour and N Andy Fairweather Low (22 Feb) populated by sublime, eccentric, enchanting characters. Clwyd Theatr Andy Fairweather Low was born in Cardiff in 1948 and rose to prominence Cymru. Various times. as front man and guitartist for chart-topping, teen idol band, Amen Corner.

n 7.30pm.

i Newport Centre – 01633 656757 Mr Blue Sky: The ELO experience (28 Feb)

Forty years on, and the music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra Welsh Open (19 Feb-2 Mar) is still regularly played on radio stations throughout the world. The Official n UK No 1 Tribute Show 2013. 7.30pm. Snooker's Welsh Open world ranking event returns with a new format where all 128 players start in the same round. Established stars like

o Ronnie O'Sullivan, Judd Trump, John Higgins, Mark Selby, home

City Centre – 01633 656656 favourite Mark Williams and defending champion Stephen Maguire will all be eligible to enter the event and could face against up-and-

s coming rookies in the first round. Tickets are on sale now and early The Admiral City of Newport half ’ booking is advised. marathon (2 Mar) t Returning for its second year in aid of St David’s Hospice Care. For more information see page 4. – 01633 636363 a Sport Relief Mile (23 Mar) World Wetlands Day walk (2 Feb) Newport will again host the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile which will take

h A walk to explore the reedbeds and Severn Estuary. See over-wintering place on Sunday 23 March and you can show your support by entering at wildfowl such as tufted duck, pochard and gadwall and shoveler and waders www.sportrelief.com See page 4 for more details. such as curlew and dunlin. Free event, 9.40-11.30am.

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

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

Tredegar House – Newport Museum 01633 815880 and Art Gallery – Flood scheme for 01633 656656 House open ‘below 700 Newport homes stairs’ (8-28 Feb) Object enquiry In early December parts of A chance to experience the working sessions (12 Feb, 12 areas of the house and find out Mar) the UK experienced the what it was like to work there. Newport Museum and Art Gallery worst tidal flooding for 60 11am-4pm. holds regular object enquiry years. Fortunately, Half term activities sessions and can examine improvements to flood archaeology and social history (22 Feb-1 Mar) schemes and flood warnings objects and works of fine and saved many from the Family friendly activities including decorative art. a children’s trail, crafts and bird devastating impacts of box making. Art store tours flooding. Venture behind the scenes of Most recently, properties in House opens Newport Museum and Art Gallery (1Mar) Crindau were flooded by a tidal and peak into some of the art surge that came very close to House opens 7 days a week, stores. Booking essential. 11am. affecting hundreds of homes and alongside gardens. 11am-5pm. business in the area . – Natural Resources Wales 01633 263670 Newport Market – (NRW), with support from 01633 656656 What the butler Newport City Council is working to reduce this risk in Crindau saw (19-22 feb) Land and Scape with continued improvements to A manic, shocking,helter-skelter of (8-28 Feb) flood schemes along the banks of a farce involving an orgy of cross- the River Usk. Having completed The Upmarket Galleries is hosting dressing,mistaken identity and improvements along parts of The proposed Crindau Pill scheme would extend along the a new exhibition featuring work by half-naked pursuits around a zany Riverside in recent years, NRW is Flood Scheme aims to increase banks of the River Usk and artists taking their immediate rural psychiatric clinic. now preparing plans for community resilience, offering Crindau Pill between the M4 environment as inspiration in a substantial improvements in the flood protection to over 700 motorway south down to the variety of media from painting and Aladdin (25 Feb-1 Crindau / Shaftsbury Park area. photography to computer Mar) homes and businesses. The London to Cardiff railway line (see image). Provided funding is generated pieces and sound art. The family favourite performed by in place, construction is due to Upstairs in the market, the Newport Pantomime Society. exhibition is organised and curated begin in 2015. Councillor Ken Critchley, by members of Bosch and Artopsy. All Shook Up Opening show from 12pm to 4pm cabinet member for on 8 February. (19-22 Mar) infrastructure, said: “I am very For further information, please New Venture Players present this pleased to support the NRW’s contact Steven Jones on lively musical built around the proposed flood scheme at 07980466262 or songs made famous by Elvis Crindau Pill. This area [email protected] Presley. represents the biggest risk of flooding in Newport and this scheme, with a combination of Convey Law win award reinforced concrete walls and Newport based conveyancing communication, with impeccable raised earth embankments, will specialists Convey Law have won systems and documentation. remove that danger to residents a Sunday Times Convayancer of Convey Law’s dedication to in the area.” the Year Award. The judging customer service and their A community drop-in panel at the awards recognised innovative use of technology exhibition is being held on Convey Law as, “having an ensures that transactions progress February 10, 2pm to 8pm at outstanding level of as smoothly as possible.” Shaftsbury Community Centre. All local residents are encouraged to attend. NRW’s flood experts Ward meetings will be on hand to showcase and discuss proposals for the Crindau Allt-yr-Yn: 18 February, 10am surgery, 10.30am meeting, Civic Centre Pill Flood Scheme. NRW is also Caerleon: 3 February, 6pm surgery, 6.30pm meeting, Lodge Hill keen to hear from residents about Primary School any stories of past flooding, and there will be information on how : 11 February, 7pm, Rogerstone & Social Club everyone can better prepare and : 6 February, 7pm, Newport Centre protect themselves from flooding.

NEWPORT MATTERS Do it online www.newport.gov.uk 9 10 For the latest news visit www.newport.gov.uk NEWPORT MATTERS Youngsters celebrate their Duke of Edinburgh awards at presentation Newport City Council’s youth centres, their schools and youth canoe. The gold award holders took During the presentation evening, service hosted a presentation clubs. They also completed an hour part in an extra week-long which was hosted by the young people themselves, the audience were evening at The Riverfront a week of physical activity and residential activity in order to gain learned many new skills. their award. They will now be invited given an insight into some of the recently, with young people All of the young people involved to St James’ Palace to collect their activities that were undertaken from across the city collecting completed expeditions, travelling award from the Duke of Edinburgh through some great presentations certificates at Duke of around the country by foot, bike or himself. covering all sections of the award. Edinburgh bronze, silver and gold levels. The youngsters completed their awards through their school, youth club or explorer scouts. Many councillors attended the presentation night and had the honour of presenting a total of 183 bronze awards, 48 silver and 31 gold to the

. young people of Newport. To achieve a Duke of Edinburgh’s . award young people aged 14 – 25 . have to complete four different activities, each over a period of

g between three to 18 months. As part of their volunteering section young people across Newport n gave more than 6,000 hours back to i the community last year by helping Young people celebrate their Duke of Edinburgh awards in charity shops, animal welfare Pobl ifanc yn dathlu ennill gwobrau Dug Caeredin n

r Pobl ifanc yn dathlu ennill

a gwobrau Dug Caeredin Cafodd gwasanaeth ieuenctid Daeth nifer o gynghorwyr i'r Casnewydd dros 6,000 o oriau'n ôl mewn gweithgaredd preswyl e Cyngor Dinas Casnewydd cyflwyniad, a bu'n fraint cyflwyno i'r gymuned y llynedd drwy helpu wythnos ychwanegol i ennill eu gwobr nhw. Byddant bellach yn cael noson gyflwyno yng Nglan- 183 o wobrau efydd, 48 o wobrau mewn siopau elusen, canolfannau L arian a 31 o wobrau aur i bobl ifanc lles anifeiliaid, yn eu hysgolion ac yn eu gwahodd i Balas St Iago i gael eu

yr-afon yn ddiweddar, gyda Casnewydd. eu canolfannau ieuenctid. gwobr gan Ddug Caeredin ei hun. phobl ifanc o bob rhan o'r I gyflawni gwobr Dug Caeredin, Gwnaethant hefyd gwblhau awr o Yn ystod y noson gyflwyno, a ddinas yn cael tystysgrifau rhaid i bobl ifanc 14-25 oed weithgareddau corfforol a dysgu gynhaliwyd gan y bobl ifanc eu

& efydd, arian ac aur Dug gwblhau pedwar gweithgaredd nifer o sgiliau newydd. hunain, cafodd y gynulleidfa

Caeredin. gwahanol, gyda phob un yn cymryd Gwnaeth yr holl bobl ifanc gwblhau gipolwg ar rai o'r gweithgareddau a gyflawnwyd drwy gyflwyniadau Cwblhaodd y bobl ifanc eu rhwng 3 a 18 mis i'w cwblhau. alldeithiau, gan deithio'r wlad ar ^ gwych a soniodd am bob agwedd ar s gwobrau drwy eu hysgol, eu Fel rhan o'u hadran wirfoddoli, droed, ar feic neu mewn canw. rhoddodd pobl ifanc ar draws Cymerodd deiliaid y wobr aur ran y wobr. l canolfan hamdden neu'r sgowtiaid.

o Chief education officer returns Following a successful period of In February 2013 James Harris was example set by Newport and Blaenau “We will continue to support our o sharing a chief education officer, appointed joint chief education officer Gwent on how collaborative working colleagues in Blaenau Gwent through Newport City Council and for both councils, he will return to can add value to the delivery of services this transitionary phase until the end Newport City Council and spend 100 is an example for others across the of January 2014.” h Blaenau Gwent country. Both councils will continue to Council have agreed to end the per cent of his time in charge of education services at the authority. “We have to ensure that we support and participate in the South

c partnership arrangement, and A spokesperson for Newport City maintain our own education East Wales Education Achievement return to full time self- Council, commented: standards and in the long term feel we Service (EAS). management at both authorities can only do that by having our chief

S “The issue of collaboration is from 1 February 2014. important for Welsh councils. The education officer in post full time.

NEWPORT MATTERS Recycle for Newport www.newport.gov.uk/recycle 11 12 Items that may be delivered alongside Newport Matters are not associated with the c ouncil NEWPORT MATTERS Putting Communities First Communities First – the Welsh Government’s flagship programme aimed at tacking deprivation – was re-launched last year and the council won the bid to deliver the programme in the city. It will provide external Central cluster funding of £5.5 million over A big part of the central two years and support 50 full- team’s programme is helping time equivalent posts. people get back to work Three new themes have through their job clubs. been identified for the One of the busier sessions programme – prosperous takes place at Community communities, learning House, Eton Road, delivered communities and healthier in partnership with Careers communities each Thursday between 1pm Wales, Jobcentre Plus, Save and 3pm. Four new clusters were Time Online and established – north Action Group. Help is also offered to local (Bettws, Malpas and people who want to start a Shaftesbury); central nutrition advice and business or groups who want (Maindee, Pill and Stow promoting health and well- to set up a social enterprise. Hill); west (Gaer, being. Three health promotion and Tredegar Education and learning: events were held last year and Park) and east (, extended sixth form provision the last one in October, in Beechwood/Old Barn, runs every weekday in the Community House, attracted , Ringland and Bettws Civil Service Building more than 300 residents. Somerton). with a focus on sport and Similar events are promised leisure as well as the this year. North cluster opportunity to take various A project to support and The team delivers a range of qualifications while adult keep young people aged projects and support education courses in first aid, between 14 and 16 in throughout the cluster food hygiene, confidence education is being run in designed to develop more building and other topics conjunction with prosperous, learning and began this month. with NVQ modules in Citizens Advice Bureau They are held on Thursdays healthier communities as can Prosperity: work fabrication and welding and drop-in sessions are held in between 1pm and 4pm. be seen in the examples placements, employment vehicle mechanics. Bettws, Malpas and below. advice/support and social In addition, through Shaftesbury. Call 01633 Other sessions are held at Health and well-being: enterprise training are partnership work with 222622 for further details). Pill Mill Centre on courses including healthy available throughout the Families First, additional Wednesdays from 1pm-3pm cooking, exercise and cluster. accreditation opportunities and on Thursdays from within schools including the 9.30am-12pm as well as the Duke of Edinburgh Awards. SHARE Centre on Stow Hill

NEWPORT MATTERS Follow us on twitter @newportcouncil 13 Newport gets super-connected Newport is one step closer to Cllr Bob Bright, leader of Newport broadband to compete in the Gaming Centre bringing a sense of becoming a super-connected City Council, said: “The council global race. Connection vouchers community back to online city with the launch of Super- and colleagues in Newport will be an important tool for cities gaming, and Newport based UK connected Newport. Unlimited have worked hard to in helping to address that demand, Plumbing Supplies providing Superfast and ultrafast bring this important project to and government has now allocated online ordering for plumbers broadband are going to change Newport. The fact that it is now up to £100 million to provide a across the UK. everything we do – from shopping going live is a great moment for digital boost to superconnected The Super-connected Newport to healthcare – and Newport’s local businesses and I urge them to cities like Newport.” project will also bring high speed programme is leading the way in take advantage of the support Already the project is working wireless internet access to key areas delivering the change. available.” with a wide range of companies of the city. £4 million of funding is Communications minister Ed that hope to benefit from improved For more information visit available to local businesses Vaizey, said: “The broadband broadband access – companies www.newport.gov.uk/superfast, through a voucher scheme which market is moving at an incredible including the Ashton Park Care call 01633 656656 or follow will help them get improved pace. Today, businesses expect and Home that hope to improve video @ConnectNewport on Twitter. broadband connections. demand faster and faster calling for residents, the NSP Work on-track for rail electrification .

. Network Rail Wales is working Western Main Line (GWML) Overgrown vegetation will also more economical to operate and between London and , with have to be cleared and maintained maintain. The enhanced . closely with Welsh Government, the Department the aim for the network to Cardiff to prevent encroachment on the infrastructure will also give the

y electrified lines. Following this, for Transport, train operating to be electrified by 2017 and to provision for smoother train Swansea by 2018. foundation works will begin. journeys for passengers as well as t companies and key In order to facilitate As project plans develop, a helping to deliver a quieter railway

i stakeholders to deliver a electrification, essential preparatory number of public information for line-side neighbours. better railway for South Wales. works are required and will begin events will be held – details will be The electrification of the GWML

c This investment will bring in 2014. In Wales, a number of published in Newport Matters, is a vital aspect of the

benefits for passengers, while bridges are too low to online and in the press when government’s strategy to provide a supporting the growth of the local accommodate the new available. safe, reliable and efficient railway

s economy. infrastructure and overhead An electrified rail network will for the 21st Century. In July 2012, the secretary of state electrical lines. Work on such mean faster, greener, quieter and For more information visit for transport announced the more reliable journeys for tens of www.networkrail.co.uk/ s bridges is expected to begin in late decision to electrify the Great 2014 and continue until 2016. thousands of rail passengers. It is greatwesternelectrification

e International summit World-class convention centre

n World leaders will be coming Britain would host the summit for Welsh Government announced submit the Wales International

i to Newport this year when a the first time since Margaret late last year that they will Convention Centre scheme, which major international summit Thatcher welcomed NATO leaders provide match funding for the would provide the largest

s comes to our city. at the end of the cold war in 1990. initial stage of a project to convention facility of its kind in A summit of the North Atlantic Set up in 1949, NATO’s essential create a world-class Wales or the south west of England, Treaty Organisation (NATO) is to purpose is to safeguard the for outline planning consent this u convention centre facility in freedom and security of its 28 year. meet at the in Newport. member countries through The project includes a state-of- September. The match funding will allow political and military means. the-art new auditorium, exhibition B Prime Minister Celtic Manor management to announced late last year that hall and complementary facilities.

14 For the latest news visit www.newport.gov.uk NEWPORT MATTERS Work programme launches Take pride in your Two innovative projects “The council, and our One Newport the launch of the co-location project neighbourhood providing unemployed people partners, want to put this important which is one strand of the work Fly-tipping is a serious problem Did you know that if you are caught with opportunities to improve work at the heart of our business. programme in the city which is in England and Wales. Dealing fly tipping you could receive a £20,000 their job prospects have been Opening up opportunities to help delivered by the council in partnership with the problem can cost fine or imprisonment? people find permanent employment is with Working Links under contract by officially launched. taxpayers and private Competition important for the individual but also the DWP (Department of Work and To tackle fly tipping the council’s Newport City Council, together with has an economic benefit for the city. Pensions). landowners in the region of its One Newport partners, has £100-£150 million every year. waste management team are calling “Recent developments in Newport - From October 2012 to November for residents of Newport to nominate established a Work Based Learning Fly-tipping poses a threat to including the new Admiral offices in 2013, the council has supported 960 areas that are victim to fly tipping. Academy (WBLA) which offers paid humans and wildlife, damages our the city centre which are due to open people in looking for employment If you have problems with fly and unpaid work experience to young environment, and spoils our next year, the announcement that an and, as a result, 52 per cent found tipping you can put your area forward people, graduates, apprentices and the enjoyment of our towns and international conference centre is to work. to receive support from the council to long-term unemployed. countryside. The blight in fly-tipping be created at the Celtic Manor and In the last year, the teams have clean it up. It is also collaborating with hot spots can even reduce property with construction of Friars Walk excelled in two particular areas: To enter email Jobcentre Plus at the Information prices in the area and local businesses beginning early next year – signal a Working with 156 young people [email protected] Station to give expert support and may suffer as people stay away. renewed confidence in the city. aged between 18 and 24 claiming job or phone Christine Thomas on advice in personal development, skills, It also undermines legitimate waste “We want to ensure that local seekers allowance, they helped 75 per 01633 656656. The closing date vocational qualifications and work businesses where illegal operators people have the best skills and cent of them to find work. for entries is Friday 14 February experience. undercut those abiding by the law. At opportunities so they can be part of Of 385 job seeker allowance 2014. Councillor Deborah Davies, cabinet the same time, the reputation of legal Newport’s future growth.” claimants aged 25 plus, 57 per cent Together we can clean up our member for skills and work, launched operators is undermined by rogue Councillor Davies was joined by found employment. communities and help make Newport the WBLA at Malpas Court last month. traders. Newport East MP for free from fly-tipping. Fairness Commission reports findings of its research A year on from its launch the exchange of views is facilitated Newport Fairness Commission, between Newport City Council and the first in Wales, has published citizens. a detailed report on the Councillor Bob Bright, leader of the council’s budget setting and council, said “We very much welcome decision making processes. this report from the fairness The Labour Administration elected commission. As a party, one of our key in 2012 decided that issues relating to promises was that we would stand up fairness needed to remain high on the for Newport and make it a fairer city, a council’s agenda. To do this an place where everyone feels included. independent body made up of The commission and this report will representatives from local groups and assist the council in its aim of organisations with an interest in narrowing the gap between the most fairness, equalities and social disadvantaged and the most affluent inclusion was set up. areas of Newport and ensure local The fairness commission people feel part of the decision- making that affects their lives.” Councillor Deborah Davies and Jessica Morden MP attend the launch of the new academy immediately began work on building a clearer understanding of what Professor Steve Smith, chair of the fairness means and how it applies to commission, commented: “It is Scheme helps warm Newport council policies and decisions. It has commendable that Newport is leading also looked at how it could stimulate the way in Wales by setting-up a households and save £500 wider public debate on such issues fairness commission. Our aim is to More than 350 households and receive a means tested state The Nest scheme, which is and a public consultation exercise was provide policy-makers with a ‘critical across Newport saved an benefit. managed by British Gas, also supports carried out in summer 2013. lens’ for viewing fairness, and to average of £500 per year after Following a home visit to check applicants through the process with The report explores a range of encourage public debate which takes being referred for free home eligibility, a Nest assessor will advice via a freephone number. questions including; when is it fair to fairness seriously as a centrally energy improvements last year recommend a tailored package of If you are on a means tested benefit, treat people the same, and when is it important political, economic, and from a Welsh Government’s fuel improvements to help make the and your home is hard to heat, please fair to treat people differently? What social goal.” poverty scheme. property warmer and save money on contact Nest on Freephone 0808 808 groups have priority in Newport and For more information on the commission and to view the full Nest offers home improvements at energy bills. These may include a new 2244 to see if you are eligible for a why? report visit no cost to applicants who own or central heating boiler, loft insulation, home energy improvement package, It also asks how the council ensures www.newportfairnesscommission. privately rent their home, live in a cavity wall or solid wall insulation, or or visit www.nestwales.org.uk for more that decision-making is fair, org property that is very energy inefficient renewable energy technologies. information. consistent and transparent and how NEWPORT MATTERS For council enquiries call 01633 656 656 15 16 Recycle for Newport www.newport.gov.uk/recycle NEWPORT MATTERS