Regeneration projects are taking place across Newport as part of a drive to improve existing sites, facilities and properties, as well as build new ones. The aim is to make improvements, both in the city centre and wider geography that will create a better environment for people to live, work and visit.

One of the major regeneration projects, Friars Walk is due to open next week on November 12th. The 390,000 square foot leisure and retail centre will be a major benefit to the local economy and is bringing top names brands like Debenhams, Marks and Spencer, Mothercare and Cineworld to the city. Gourmet food outlets and restaurants are also signed up and ready to open next week. A recent recruitment fair for the centre attracted over 4000 job seekers.

A £14.9m funding award from the Welsh government means that historic city centre properties are being transformed as well as new homes and jobs being created. Shop fronts are being given a facelift, old buildings converted into apartments and hotels as well as new properties being built. In addition to 600 new jobs in the area it is anticipated that more than 850 will benefit from wok based skills and learning opportunities.

£6m was invested in the Pillgwenlly Regeneration project; a 4 year project aimed at driving business forward, improving community facilities and delivering environmental improvements to the area. The refurbishment of the library was the starting point, followed by the restoration of neglected and derelict buildings.
In addition to those projects already completed are those set to be phased in gradually or started in the 18 months.

The Celtic Manor Resort turns away huge amounts of business as it does not have the capacity for large conferences. Next year should see work start on a £60m convention centre. The project should result in a conference venue able to take 3,000 delegates and also create an additional 150 jobs.

The Llanwern Steelworks site is being developed by St Modwen who are taking a phased approach to creating thousands of new homes and jobs over the next 20 years. In addition to housing, the 600 acre site will accommodate leisure and retail space, educational facilities and an expanse of open parkland.

In summer this year, Fear Group submitted plans to Newport City Council for a £60m riverfront development. The proposals which were welcomed by local residents include the creation of a student village, a hotel and store as well as residential units. The plans also include a boardwalk link to the soon to be opened Friars Walk centre,

As well as the regeneration projects already complete, it is encouraging to see that so much is planned to continue in years to come. This can only be good for Newport. Not only will it be good for the local economy, bringing in new business, employment and tourism, but it will continue to improve things for local residents and businesses alike, and PRV Engineering are proud to be involved in various regeneration projects across the city.

Interested to know what’s happening with the old passport office or shire hall? This article has some updates on specific buildings.

See what local residents had to say about the regeneration projects here.