A NEWPORT pub has been transformed into a centre for up and coming businesses.

Langtons, a former pub, on Charles Street has been turned into a venue for small independent businesses to trade from.

Andrew Carragon, from Newport, set up Langtons Antique & Collectors Centre where traders of antiques, collectables, crafts and other small projects can rent the floor space to kick-start their business ventures.

Mr Carragon transformed the pub as part of a £25,000 development. He said: “Before starting the renovation process, I realised that venue was too big for a pub as it was spread over four floors. I therefore decided to set up units for businesses as there is nothing like it in Newport.

“I thought it would be a good opportunity for those who couldn’t afford to do this or for those who had no knowledge of how to go about it.”

The centre, which opened at the beginning of the month, offers units from £10 a week for the smallest spaces, and up to £75 a week for the larger units.

The price includes overheads and there are no surplus charges. Mr Carragon said: “When we first opened we had three units but now we have 14, which include antiques crafts, dress hire for things like prom dresses and we also have a cafe.

“It’s been really successful so far and it’s just amazing to have something like this in the city.” he said.

Langtons Antique and Collectors centre first advertised the floor space through advertisements and on sites including Gum Tree, but interest is now spreading through word of mouth and they are even gaining interest from people in Cardiff. Businesses are able to use the centre for as long as they wish until they are ready to branch out and go it alone.

Kizzy Goodwin opened the cafe called, Kizzy’s Cwtch, within the centre after seeing the advertisement online.

“I have a catering background and thought it was a nice opportunity to open somewhere small that I can manage on my own, something between a coffee shop and a cafe,” he said.

“I keep the menu small and simple and everything has a personal feel. The first couple of weeks have been really great as there is just nothing like it around this area.”