First Minister Eluned Morgan expresses excitement for Newport’s future, citing economic growth and thriving culture in Wales.
The First Minister visited Maindee’s Wastesavers. She wants people to celebrate Newport’s good things. Many positive things are happening there right now.
Newport’s culture scene has much going on. The Newport Live Act Fringe festival is in March, run by Tin Shed Theatre Co. March also brings the Newport Music Trail, a music event that is free to attend. A big arts festival returns in summer; it is Wales’ largest free outdoor one.
The First Minister is happy about Newport’s economy. There has been investment downtown, and money went to the market. They redeveloped the town center. The Welsh Government and council are a team working together for Newport.
Newport city center saw more shoppers in December. 2024 saw more festive season visitors than before. This trend is opposite of what happened in Wales overall.
December foot traffic rose by over two percent, with 312,213 visitors recorded. Councillor Batrouni calls this great news. He says it shows the council’s good work and that they provide exciting things in December.
Foot traffic went up in Newport when it went down nationally. The British Retail Consortium said UK foot traffic fell, down over two percent yearly.
Cllr Batrouni reports visitor numbers keep rising yearly. He thinks this is fantastic news for the city.