FOR those of us who remember the "legendary" TJ's in its heyday, it's difficult to accept that a whole generation has grown up in Newport without access to the iconic venue, perhaps wondering what the fuss is about.

They might accept that a venue which hosted the likes of Oasis, the Stone Roses, the Manic Street Preachers and Iron Maiden was once worth its salt, particularly given its size.

It was the hub of a thriving music scene in the city for more than 20 years, but then hit harder times and eventually closed.

Former owner John Sicolo died in 2010 and 18 months later the building was sold at auction.

The current owners - London-based 121Ventures - may not care about the venue's musical heritage. However, they have a responsibility to keep the building in a good state of repair as it is Grade II Listed, and ignoring council enforcement notices shows that responsibility was not taken seriously

We therefore applaud Newport City Council's decision to prosecute the company and its directors.

TJ's could again be a key part of Newport, whether as a music venue of something else - but not if left to rot by absent landlords.