Free Newport city centre parking ‘wonderful’ news (From South Wales Argus)

I don't think it's going to help much in terms of attracting shoppers to the centre. I struggle to stretch out 2 hours in the town centre at the moment, let alone more than that.

Appreciate the gesture and really feel for the traders of Newport but I'm sorry, it won't change my shopping habits and I'll continue to shop at Cwmbran. The choice of shops which are getting better and better and the atmosphere and layout of the town makes Cwmbran in my opinion a first choice everytime.

Great......all we need now are some shops.....and has anyone highlighted the crime in these unsupervised and unpoliced car parks?

Get the old sainsburys car park back into use.

“Now they can come in for longer and explore the city where there are a large number of independent traders.”




Explore what exactly. There`s nothing there except charity shops , chuggers and ambulance chasers.

Haha free parking in Newport after all these years, furthermore where are the shops in Newport to go shopping in - so no wonder they are panicking and offering free-parking. How Newport got a city status I will never know - Cwmbran has so much more to offer. Good shopping centre undercover, free parking, bowlplex, stadium, boating lake, and river walks. Newport should have up its game years ago, sadly now it is nothing more than a ghost town.

I have not been in to Newport for months, we catch the train from Rogerstone to Cardiff on one or two days most weeks and do everything there. There is nothing left in Newport that makes a trip there worthwhile, as for having a meal in town I have one question....Where would you go in the centre for a meal if you don't want pre prepared pub grub or takeaway food, there are not any decent restaurants there.

5 hours of free parking, you could do your shopping in newport town centre in less than two hors, and spend the other 3 hours trying to get out of newport!

We actually agree Rhinestine! Our city centre would be far better without the riff raff.

I like the beijing idea, where they close down public transport and pedestrian access to the centre for one day per week. It's only the middle class and upwards with cash to spend only are allowed in.

If we did that, then we won't be bothered by drunkards, scroungers, foreigners, those doing manual work or earning less than... say £30k PA?

Everyone wins - well apart from those lower down on the social ladder than me, but that's life, huh!

Gareth wrote:
We actually agree Rhinestine! Our city centre would be far better without the riff raff.

I like the beijing idea, where they close down public transport and pedestrian access to the centre for one day per week. It's only the middle class and upwards with cash to spend only are allowed in.

If we did that, then we won't be bothered by drunkards, scroungers, foreigners, those doing manual work or earning less than... say £30k PA?

Everyone wins - well apart from those lower down on the social ladder than me, but that's life, huh!

Great idea, send it to the council, see what they think?

Maybe raise the barr to 45k PA.......

:-)

Major Argus news item this week: Terry Matthews opens Wales's biggest charity shop...yet another charity shop and yet another on Newport's main pedestrianised street. And this is to be celebrated? Perhaps this is why the average Newport shopper now needs five hours of free parking - to get round all the charity shops, the tatty pound stores, and to be hounded by 'no win no fee' accident sniffers, 'have a nice day' Big Issue touts and toothy smiled donation warriors.

Sorry, Newport, but there has to be something worth shopping in Newport for. It's getting harder to park in Cwmbran now, so I'd much rather go to Cardiff. 3 pounds for all day parking in the Park and Ride facility just off the A48M - an impeccably clean bus ride to the city centre and back for all driven by a pleasant and courteous driver, and hours and hours of top notch shopping and entertainment in the city centre's cathedral-like malls.

Can Newport please be adopted or absorbed by Cardiff once and for all? Perhaps then we'd see some real urban progress.

wilkolima wrote:
Major Argus news item this week: Terry Matthews opens Wales's biggest charity shop...yet another charity shop and yet another on Newport's main pedestrianised street. And this is to be celebrated? Perhaps this is why the average Newport shopper now needs five hours of free parking - to get round all the charity shops, the tatty pound stores, and to be hounded by 'no win no fee' accident sniffers, 'have a nice day' Big Issue touts and toothy smiled donation warriors.

Sorry, Newport, but there has to be something worth shopping in Newport for. It's getting harder to park in Cwmbran now, so I'd much rather go to Cardiff. 3 pounds for all day parking in the Park and Ride facility just off the A48M - an impeccably clean bus ride to the city centre and back for all driven by a pleasant and courteous driver, and hours and hours of top notch shopping and entertainment in the city centre's cathedral-like malls.

Can Newport please be adopted or absorbed by Cardiff once and for all? Perhaps then we'd see some real urban progress.

good post

OMG how embarrasing is this offering free parking bit late in the day !!! we have NO shops here for people to do christmas shopping !!!! my family and i have been going to cwmbran and cardiff to do our shopping last few weeks in fact we go all year round !!!

there are too many pubs in newport and not enough shops !!!!!!!!!!! and there are not enough places to eat to choose from!!!

To late newport now even plays second fiddle to cwmbran!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!,its in terminal decline get used to it.

Meandog wrote:
I don't think it's going to help much in terms of attracting shoppers to the centre. I struggle to stretch out 2 hours in the town centre at the moment, let alone more than that.

well done i agree with every post that has been said on here , my home town newport has sadly gone to pot and whose fault is it?? we never hear a word from civic centre about any thing !!

Meandog wrote:
I don't think it's going to help much in terms of attracting shoppers to the centre. I struggle to stretch out 2 hours in the town centre at the moment, let alone more than that.

well done i agree with every post that has been said on here , my home town newport has sadly gone to pot and whose fault is it?? we never hear a word from civic centre about any thing !!

Meandog wrote:
I don't think it's going to help much in terms of attracting shoppers to the centre. I struggle to stretch out 2 hours in the town centre at the moment, let alone more than that.

well done i agree with every post that has been said on here , my home town newport has sadly gone to pot and whose fault is it?? we never hear a word from civic centre about any thing !!

Personally I cant stand the big malls in Cardiff and Bristol. Too crowded, soulless and busy traffic. The train or park and ride in Cardiff is good - so long as you have little to carry. In Cwmbran parking and traffic is much worse than it was and its basically a convenient but soulless mall.

A far stretch at the moment I know but Newport centre has a lot of lovely buildings and it needs to find its own identity as a proper town centre not try to compete with Cardiff/Cwmbran/Bris
tol.

**** think of all the traffic jams going into the big city, then going on the open top guided tour bus to see the lights and attractions, the shopkeepers in Cwmbran and Cardiff not to mention Croesyceiliog community shops must be trembling in their shoes.

You got to laugh at it all haven’t you

Changing the subject but does anyone know why there are very few concerts in the Newport centre these days.I have e-mailed the council but they never reply.At one time there were gigs almost every week.

Typical - don't support the local economy, then moan about it

I love wandering through Newport town centre, shops or no. The architecture is stunning and there are some amazing little gems of places to eat.

There is nowhere in Cardiff that, for the same price, can compete with a fresh steak and mushroom bagette from Turners (affectionately known as "The Meat Van" or "Stand of Meaty Goodness" in our house). There is no art in Cwmbran that's made me burst out laughing like some of the quirky Superdragons have. And can I get a nice bottle of organic cherry ale in a pub where inked-up metal-heads sup quietly alongside well-dressed ale-lovers like the Murenger? Not on your life.

Don't get me wrong, I love what Cardiff has to offer too (couldn't give a stuff for Cwmbran though, it's like Milton Keynes but without the atmosphere) but... home will always be The 'Port. :)

Dee-Gee wrote:
I love wandering through Newport town centre, shops or no. The architecture is stunning and there are some amazing little gems of places to eat.

There is nowhere in Cardiff that, for the same price, can compete with a fresh steak and mushroom bagette from Turners (affectionately known as "The Meat Van" or "Stand of Meaty Goodness" in our house). There is no art in Cwmbran that's made me burst out laughing like some of the quirky Superdragons have. And can I get a nice bottle of organic cherry ale in a pub where inked-up metal-heads sup quietly alongside well-dressed ale-lovers like the Murenger? Not on your life.

Don't get me wrong, I love what Cardiff has to offer too (couldn't give a stuff for Cwmbran though, it's like Milton Keynes but without the atmosphere) but... home will always be The 'Port. :)

You need to get out more...............

I cant believe that so many people prefer Cwmbran to Newport - the place is a concrete jungle with no personality or style what so ever. And i think the people there are much more questionable to those in Newport!

Newport needs the support of the people that live here now more than ever, or it's just going to get worse.

NakedDancer wrote:
Personally I cant stand the big malls in Cardiff and Bristol. Too crowded, soulless and busy traffic. The train or park and ride in Cardiff is good - so long as you have little to carry. In Cwmbran parking and traffic is much worse than it was and its basically a convenient but soulless mall.

A far stretch at the moment I know but Newport centre has a lot of lovely buildings and it needs to find its own identity as a proper town centre not try to compete with Cardiff/Cwmbran/Bris

tol.

well the malls in cardiff bristol are very handy when its raining !!!! the malls are the best thing that ever happened for shoppers , at least they got the shops that the shoppers want!!! yes newport along with other places have fine buildings like the westgate area , but we need shops and resturants to create jobs bring the economy back !! buildings are not going to be any good just to look at we need investment badly in newport.

rhinestine wrote:

wilkolima wrote:
Major Argus news item this week: Terry Matthews opens Wales's biggest charity shop...yet another charity shop and yet another on Newport's main pedestrianised street. And this is to be celebrated? Perhaps this is why the average Newport shopper now needs five hours of free parking - to get round all the charity shops, the tatty pound stores, and to be hounded by 'no win no fee' accident sniffers, 'have a nice day' Big Issue touts and toothy smiled donation warriors.

Sorry, Newport, but there has to be something worth shopping in Newport for. It's getting harder to park in Cwmbran now, so I'd much rather go to Cardiff. 3 pounds for all day parking in the Park and Ride facility just off the A48M - an impeccably clean bus ride to the city centre and back for all driven by a pleasant and courteous driver, and hours and hours of top notch shopping and entertainment in the city centre's cathedral-like malls.

Can Newport please be adopted or absorbed by Cardiff once and for all? Perhaps then we'd see some real urban progress.

good post

Yes. It would be like when East Germany got absorbed into the West and all the old communist era slums were pulled down. How you deal with the high proportion of undesirables is a bigger problem alas.

"rhinestine says... "You need to get out more.."

And where should I go, that'll make me happier than home?

Dee-Gee wrote:
I love wandering through Newport town centre, shops or no. The architecture is stunning and there are some amazing little gems of places to eat.

There is nowhere in Cardiff that, for the same price, can compete with a fresh steak and mushroom bagette from Turners (affectionately known as "The Meat Van" or "Stand of Meaty Goodness" in our house). There is no art in Cwmbran that's made me burst out laughing like some of the quirky Superdragons have. And can I get a nice bottle of organic cherry ale in a pub where inked-up metal-heads sup quietly alongside well-dressed ale-lovers like the Murenger? Not on your life.

Don't get me wrong, I love what Cardiff has to offer too (couldn't give a stuff for Cwmbran though, it's like Milton Keynes but without the atmosphere) but... home will always be The 'Port. :)

Stunning architecture? The dragons that some vandals threw in the river? Comparing a decent Cardiff restaurant with a van? Have you considered a career in marketing? Well the inked-up meatheads actually exist, no question. Along with the track-suit and trainers brigade. And the pit-bulls.

The whole country is a mess, us as people have a lot to do with it, no one cares, we let the thugs rule, we let the powers that be walk all over us, we get taxed the most, we are the dumping ground for the rest of the worlds prblematic cast offs, need I go on?

Why is it Newport city do everything by half ? 5 hours free parking ! spytty is free all day .cwmbran is free and far better shopping ,but the jewel in the welsh crown is Cardiff even though the parking can be expensive it`s well worth it for the quality ,standard and variety of everything in the city. on the rare occasion i go into Newport city center i`m greeted with the sound of foul mouthed people constantly stopped by charity workers and ambulance chasers .the walk from hill street car park to the nationwide building society is all i can endure ,i venture no further ! get rid of this useless city council and Newport unlimited.

5 hours free parking? What are people going to do to fill the time when they get out of their car? Ten minuets should do it in Newport !!

"Along with the track-suit and trainers brigade. And the pit-bulls.”

Are you suggesting there are no chavs in Cardiff ? Wrong - Cardiff has them too, they are nation wide.

Adrian Williams wrote:
"Along with the track-suit and trainers brigade. And the pit-bulls.”

Are you suggesting there are no chavs in Cardiff ? Wrong - Cardiff has them too, they are nation wide.

Yep, quite so but it's the proportions.

What ? Cardiff's bigger so there's more of them ?

ljbrown wrote:
I cant believe that so many people prefer Cwmbran to Newport - the place is a concrete jungle with no personality or style what so ever. And i think the people there are much more questionable to those in Newport! Newport needs the support of the people that live here now more than ever, or it's just going to get worse.

...Cwmbran may be a throwback to 1960's architecture as was the Kingsway centre....there there are all the shops you could want in a fairly small distance.

Thanks to Newport's planners....the out of town sites were allowed and that was the start of the decline.

With the changes to the face of High Streets every...internet shopping...before more good money is thrown on more bad decisions....a clear idea of what is needed....

.... a greater emphasis towards leisure and small businesses....

The Argus reported that the Cambrian Car park was closing in October so work could start on the New Admiral Building!! This has been delayed since June, I would have thought the 500 odd Admiral Staff would boost Newports Fortune more than 5 hours free parking

All well and good saying support Newport but there,is simply nothing left!

I went to Cwmbran to see the lights go on and it was great, like Newport was 25 years ago.

This council have systematically destroyed the town and allowed more and more licences premises, take aways and charity shops that's what has killed it.

As a Newport Citizen I am very sad at its decline and item time the council were held to account for it.

I think Newport's City status should be removed, none of the work started has been finished.

I wonder if I can get a bet on the bookies on Debenhams NOT coming to Newport,,I think the odds would be low just like the chances of them coming.

With more empty units at Spytty we may see more shops moving out.

With BHS shutting there Cardiff Cuty Centre store. Lets see if the same happens to the Newport shop.

SHAME ON YOU NEWPORT COUNCIL

As an aside,I'd like to suggest to terry Matthews to open up. Charity shop in one of his Celtic Manor Shops in the "Vale of Usk"! He likes them so much and seems to think they can turn Newport around.

Strange, for someone who couldn't even admit his monstrosity of a hotel,which strangely got planning permission is in NEWPORT!!!

What happened too all the Ryder Cup Money Mr Matthews?????

GwentVoice wrote:
All well and good saying support Newport but there,is simply nothing left!

I went to Cwmbran to see the lights go on and it was great, like Newport was 25 years ago.

This council have systematically destroyed the town and allowed more and more licences premises, take aways and charity shops that's what has killed it.

As a Newport Citizen I am very sad at its decline and item time the council were held to account for it.

I think Newport's City status should be removed, none of the work started has been finished.

I wonder if I can get a bet on the bookies on Debenhams NOT coming to Newport,,I think the odds would be low just like the chances of them coming.

With more empty units at Spytty we may see more shops moving out.

With BHS shutting there Cardiff Cuty Centre store. Lets see if the same happens to the Newport shop.

SHAME ON YOU NEWPORT COUNCIL

As an aside,I'd like to suggest to terry Matthews to open up. Charity shop in one of his Celtic Manor Shops in the "Vale of Usk"! He likes them so much and seems to think they can turn Newport around.

Strange, for someone who couldn't even admit his monstrosity of a hotel,which strangely got planning permission is in NEWPORT!!!

What happened too all the Ryder Cup Money Mr Matthews?????

Well said......

Sadly though, the aged Councillors of Newport have no foresight, never have, never will, they look after themselves too much, rather than think what Newport might need and will need in the future.

I stopped using Newport Town Centre years ago, the buses got expensive, parking got stupid, and traffic jams a nightmare.( idiotic street layouts/bus lanes/traffic light junctions and roundabouts designed by buffoons and NOBODY policing them )

Add to that what has already been mentioned by others here, and it was a recipe for disaster. Its the traders who have supported the Centre for years I do feel sorry for, as they are not responsible for the costs we have to pay to try and shop at their premises, those left that are worth shopping at that is.

Cwmbran Shopping was better, but that is now starting to become overfull with Newports Undesireables.

But with the nice dual carriageways heading into and around the Valley's there are some nice places to shop still around, where parking is not a problem and you get the specialist shops , not some overgrown mess of a giant "superstore".

5 hours? but only over Christmas, well I will vote with my money im afraid, and its the internet and quieter alcohol / cafe free shopping street locations for me and my family thank you.
Newport has nothing left to offer me, other than to pop in once in a blue moon to arrange paperwork at the Building Society.

As for those wishing to have 30K or 45K shopping days , you are obviously not locals , as Newport has never been an overly affluent town or city, so maybe rather than wanting the "locals" to have a chav day off, perhaps you should consider moving somewhere more "upmarket" tailored for your needs... I hear UAE is a good place for fools with money.

Adrian Williams wrote:
What ? Cardiff's bigger so there's more of them ?

No there are actually more people there that can wear proper clothes, walk upright without dragging their knuckles along the ground and can use a knife and fork. Can you name a restaurant in Newport City? The Chandlery went ages back.

ljbrown wrote:
I cant believe that so many people prefer Cwmbran to Newport - the place is a concrete jungle with no personality or style what so ever. And i think the people there are much more questionable to those in Newport!

Newport needs the support of the people that live here now more than ever, or it's just going to get worse.

The difference is Cwmbran has shops that are open and stocked sad to say Newport town is going the same way as Pontypool town. I feel sorry for the traders left trying to make a living, all the history of the place is being lost and truthfully walking through the town is depressing i used to travel to Newport to shop also the nightlife was second to none.

I quite often go shopping to Monmouth or Abergavenny,they are far better than Newport now.

'Gwent Voice' great post totally agree.. Seeing as Sir Terry denies all Knowledge of Newport I doubt he would want a Charity Shop at the Celtic Manor..

The Town Centre's on Borrowed time as Marks and the Passport Office go January!! Most of the Older people who shop in Marks will stop coming in, and Spytty has Gap, River Island and Nando's opening..

Maybe we can erect a statue of Bobby Bright pointing towards Cardiff and one of Iffy outside his row of Chav scum Friendly pubs holding a plaque saying
"Before me things create were none, save things
Eternal, and eternal I endure.
All hope abandon ye who enter here."

I am probably the only shopkeeper talking on the subject, there all gone. The independant clothes stores, shoe shops, on and on. I talked to Laura when she was offered the shop for no rent I believe. Can't get better than that.
Terry M has invested millions of his own money so let's not knock him for that. My family has invested hundreds of thousands since the 1950's in our own Newport shops. The council have just tarted up lower Commercial Street and the top end of Pill for £10 million.
NOT ONE EXTRA CAR SPACE.
The architect was from Cardiff, The idiot when asked about parking for those shops nearby who needed local parking said it was not in the remit.
So all those visiting the 50 seater Thai Restaurant oposite the police station that opens lunchtime by the way, for those that don't know can't get extra customers because the closest car park stinking of p--s is up behind Park Square.
These people in power need shooting, 10 million pounds and not one extra parking space.
Lovely open space on Gilligans island, they cut down the trees and planted a time capsule, the ceremony was amazing for 20 minutes, luvly.
Shopkeepers bankrupt, families destroyed and all wishing for Debenams to end the misery. Good luck.
I must mention that we now have eggsellant coffee shops in the CITY. Angelo does nice baguetts in John Frost Square as well for all you foodies.

Llanmartinangel wrote:

Adrian Williams wrote:
What ? Cardiff's bigger so there's more of them ?

No there are actually more people there that can wear proper clothes, walk upright without dragging their knuckles along the ground and can use a knife and fork. Can you name a restaurant in Newport City? The Chandlery went ages back.

Now you're just being ridiculous, generalist and offensive. (Rossini's next to the Riverside Pub is a lovely restaurant by the way). There are lots of good and educated people in Newport but all some people want to do is be snobby and slag the place off constantly and I get sick of hearing it. I admit that it's not perfect (far from it and yes, the council are guilty of making many mistakes), but hopefully it will get better with the new development. I am and always will be proud of my roots - I lived away various places during the 90's, but I love being back here now as I love the people here and the lovely scenery around Newport. (The fact that you're from Llanmartin probably tells it's own story). NEWPORT AND PROUD !

5 hour free parking should have started months ago ,they should also lower the cost of the shop rentals .to encourage shop keepers back into Newport .if i wanted to open a shop i would not pick Newport i would have to go were there was a lot of foot traffic . the visit last saturday it was hardly shoulder to shoulder more like a Sunday .
who switched the water off to those metal balls that have now been vandalized . another wast of money .but im ok i go over leeway now , parking is bad but at least you can do a bit of shopping and not see one drunk .

Seems like the council are now paying for their decision to allow superstore after superstore to be built in Newport, One wonders what their price was at the time and whether they now consider it worth it.

Council mismanagement and corruption are to blame in my eyes. The sooner we all realise we're better off without these self-important civil servants, the better it will be for all of us.

They're completely incompetent, and I wouldn't trust them to sniff my **** without it costing me an arm and a leg. They've had free rein for far too long and should be brought to heel like an errant dog.

Went to Cardiff to watch the game (unfortunately) yesterday, few pints afterwards and caught the train back to Newport, as soon as you walk out of the tin shed and along Cambrian Road the difference hits you. Newport is not a pleasant place during the day, in the evening it is particularly unpleasant.
If Adrian Williams thinks that Cardiff is not a fair comparison then maybe he should try Monmouth, Abergavenny or Chepstow. I actually felt more comfortable in Merthyr Tydfil a while ago than I do in Newport.

Love the return of the loudspeakers booming out the latest offers at full volume from the tatty old British Home Stores doorway. Even better Boots are doing exactly the same. Throw in a mix of the Dell Boy Trotter perfume seller peddling cheap fragrances by the old Westgate Hotel. Then add the customary buskers with their off key wailings from accordions, electric violins, guitars and Peruvian Pan Pipes and we have a a shopping experience that can only be beaten by a short spell in Hell.

I agree that it's too late really now to win people back with a small gesture as shoppers have established other places to go.

However it will be a benefit for our store - Barefoot Ceramics pottery painting studio on Charles Street. We have a couple of council car-parks close by and 2 hours was a touch short for some of your guests.

Most people who come to the studio do so from out of town and 2 hours parking meant that they would dash off afterwards when they'd otherwise stop in a local cafe or nip down to the high-street. So I feel this is worthwhile.

Incidentally there are still a few nice shops in Newport - 'Bethan Ltd' gift shop, http://www.thebestof
.co.uk/local/newport
/business-guide/feat
ure/bethan-ltd#box-r
eviews for one. . So we shouldn't say that it's _all_ low class.

Does it have to be all about shops anyway? Are people so soulless and boring now that the only reason they set foot outdoors is to buy more stuff?

I spent a lovely couple of hours in the 'Port today... The Works in Dylans (personal favourite, om nom nom) plus a browse around the art space in John Frost Square, perfect! Hadn't been in there yet and was really impressed with the quality of some of the pieces on display. Hope I'll have a chance to pop along to the show they're doing, it sounds like it could be based on the eternal argument we have on these boards about Newport - called The Meeting, if anyone else is interested.

rhinestine wrote:
The whole country is a mess, us as people have a lot to do with it, no one cares, we let the thugs rule, we let the powers that be walk all over us, we get taxed the most, we are the dumping ground for the rest of the worlds prblematic cast offs, need I go on?

Need you go on, you say?

No, not at all. Feel free to give it a rest for as long as you like. Treat yourself.

rhinestine wrote:

Dee-Gee wrote: I love wandering through Newport town centre, shops or no. The architecture is stunning and there are some amazing little gems of places to eat. There is nowhere in Cardiff that, for the same price, can compete with a fresh steak and mushroom bagette from Turners (affectionately known as "The Meat Van" or "Stand of Meaty Goodness" in our house). There is no art in Cwmbran that's made me burst out laughing like some of the quirky Superdragons have. And can I get a nice bottle of organic cherry ale in a pub where inked-up metal-heads sup quietly alongside well-dressed ale-lovers like the Murenger? Not on your life. Don't get me wrong, I love what Cardiff has to offer too (couldn't give a stuff for Cwmbran though, it's like Milton Keynes but without the atmosphere) but... home will always be The 'Port. :)

You need to get out more...............

Definitely.

I think that Newport should offer free parking when the redevelopment is complete.
It is no good just offering it for Christmas, what about the other eleven months of the year?

Cymru Am Beth wrote:
I think that Newport should offer free parking when the redevelopment is complete.
It is no good just offering it for Christmas, what about the other eleven months of the year?

Newport city council don't no they have to give to receive .
they have to encourage people back into the centre , not charge them to visit .

Cardiff is the same they charge high rates to use there car parks .
it cost enough to go shopping these days never mind rushing to get back to a pay and display

someone mentioned earlier about why only five hours...

i would guess it has something to with it being an attempt to bring additional shoppers into town, without reducing the car park revenue we get from those who commuter out of Newport on the train evey day.

After living in Newport for the past eight years, without getting mugged, abused or attacked in any way, I've finally had enough and I'm moving back to Brighton. Not because of the empty shops or the drunks/chavs/druggie
s/drunk chav druggies. No, it's people like you lot that are SO crushingly depressing in your outlook and attitude (I'm not including the people here who are intelligent enough to see the positives in life/Newport).

If there's a good news story on the SW Argus website it gets about three comments. If it's a bad news article, or an article that will generate snidey, whinging comments (like this one) you lot are all over it like a swarm of over-excited, bilious parasites.

Idiotic statements like there are no independent shops or places to eat in the city centre. Try Hunky Dory's or The Secret Garden cafe on Charles Street. As good, if not better, than anywhere in Cardiff or Bristol. Diverse Records is by far the best record shop in Wales and, unlike Spillers, doesn't trade off a lie (the oldest record shop is in Malta). The Newport Arcade has some fantastic shops, including Bethans and the sweet shop. It did have the best deli that I've been too (Baldocks) but they had to close because of you thick people who, for whatever laughable reason, consider yshopping in Newport beneath you.

Don't blame the 'druggies and chavs' for the state of the city centre. YOU are to blame, for giving up on the place. My girlfriend and I could easily hop in the car to Cardiff and do our shopping there but we make the effort to spend as much money in Newport and, if needs be, we'd go to Bristol or Cardiff for the rest.

Even when something positive like the footbridge being built is met with pathetic and negative comments. The Riverfront Arts Centre is probably a waste of money as well isn't it? I bet none of you visit the beautiful parks in Newport (let me guess - they're all full of drug addicts who will eat your children). You probably don't bother looking up and seeing the wonderful architecture in the city centre.

Newport has SO much potential and, with a population of 150,000 (many of whom live in very affluent parts of the city - though I'm sure some of you will say there aren't any in that ignorant way of yours), there is no reason or excuse for letting YOUR city die, then sit at your computer and moan about it.

So, don't just sit there, letting hate and bitterness overwhelm you - it's not a nice character trait, plus it's the same old, tired and unfunny comments that get churned up EVERY time. Be more original. Don't roll over like a limp-wristed failure let the hoodies win. Try to look at the positives in Newport (of which there are many).

I'm genuinely sad to leave this place. A town/city is what you make it and my girlfriend and I have met some of the friendliest people, been to some of the nicest restaurants, had the fondest memories of our time in Wales - all thanks to Newport. This is what we will remember. As for the rest of you dreary and negative people - forgetting you lot can't come soon enough.

Well that told you lot........

Sorry to lose you Forename Surname, hope you'll come back to visit again.

I agree that the self-hatred and snobbery is a much more depressing feature of life in Newport than the social problems (which happen in every town and city in the UK)

I wonder if the sideline carpers are even from Newport? Why would they stay here if they think it's so bad?

Dee-Gee wrote:
I love wandering through Newport town centre, shops or no. The architecture is stunning and there are some amazing little gems of places to eat.

There is nowhere in Cardiff that, for the same price, can compete with a fresh steak and mushroom bagette from Turners (affectionately known as "The Meat Van" or "Stand of Meaty Goodness" in our house). There is no art in Cwmbran that's made me burst out laughing like some of the quirky Superdragons have. And can I get a nice bottle of organic cherry ale in a pub where inked-up metal-heads sup quietly alongside well-dressed ale-lovers like the Murenger? Not on your life.

Don't get me wrong, I love what Cardiff has to offer too (couldn't give a stuff for Cwmbran though, it's like Milton Keynes but without the atmosphere) but... home will always be The 'Port. :)

Now you no your GP told you to keep taking your tablets

It might encourage shoppers to park in the car parks in the city centre instead of the Royal Gwent hospital car park though. The number you see parking and then walking off in to town!

Let the flitting visitors to Newport go, and take their blinkered comments with them. Those of us born and bred in Newport have seen and experienced the decay that has rooted out the heart and soul of the Newport that used to be, as well as the abuse of being let down by our civic leaders and having our voices and opinions ignored. Our Brighton escapee would have had far less to blame on us whining citizens had he/she lived through (and paid for) the better years with us. It's pointless listing what they missed as it will only be bounced back on us as another example of pointless complaint by someone drawn in by superficiality.

Sorry your utopian Welsh escapade didn't work out. Best back in Brighton-Eden after all, eh?

Bobevans wrote:

Dee-Gee wrote:
I love wandering through Newport town centre, shops or no. The architecture is stunning and there are some amazing little gems of places to eat.

There is nowhere in Cardiff that, for the same price, can compete with a fresh steak and mushroom bagette from Turners (affectionately known as "The Meat Van" or "Stand of Meaty Goodness" in our house). There is no art in Cwmbran that's made me burst out laughing like some of the quirky Superdragons have. And can I get a nice bottle of organic cherry ale in a pub where inked-up metal-heads sup quietly alongside well-dressed ale-lovers like the Murenger? Not on your life.

Don't get me wrong, I love what Cardiff has to offer too (couldn't give a stuff for Cwmbran though, it's like Milton Keynes but without the atmosphere) but... home will always be The 'Port. :)

Now you no your GP told you to keep taking your tablets

'Now you no your GP told you to keep taking your tablets'.

Would you like to have another try at that sentence, Bob.......In joined up English this time if you don't mind.

You appear to have been away for a few days, your carers have been having some respite I take it.

I wouldn't ever 'go back' to Newport for shopping reasons, the place is a cesspit, always has been and always will be. I'll stick to Cwmbran where everything is under one roof and the parking is free all year round.

The people are friendlier in Cwmbran too and you are less likely to get stabbed or your car broken into.

I actually found more choice in Blackwood recently. Newportonians are in despair at the total abandonment of Newport as a shopping centre at all, the outlook looks even less promising. This weekend we saw Iceland shelves being emptied and in Maindee the cooperative with empty shelves too, both are closing down more shops. In maindee this means no major food store at all there. People near me are commuting to Cwmbran too. Death of a city, it looks like a B-movie set.... The fencing off of the market rear, what for ? since nothing at all has happened.

5 hours walking around the People`s Republic of Newcharest.

No thanks.

Lliswerry Man wrote:

GwentVoice wrote:
All well and good saying support Newport but there,is simply nothing left!

I went to Cwmbran to see the lights go on and it was great, like Newport was 25 years ago.

This council have systematically destroyed the town and allowed more and more licences premises, take aways and charity shops that's what has killed it.

As a Newport Citizen I am very sad at its decline and item time the council were held to account for it.

I think Newport's City status should be removed, none of the work started has been finished.

I wonder if I can get a bet on the bookies on Debenhams NOT coming to Newport,,I think the odds would be low just like the chances of them coming.

With more empty units at Spytty we may see more shops moving out.

With BHS shutting there Cardiff Cuty Centre store. Lets see if the same happens to the Newport shop.

SHAME ON YOU NEWPORT COUNCIL

As an aside,I'd like to suggest to terry Matthews to open up. Charity shop in one of his Celtic Manor Shops in the "Vale of Usk"! He likes them so much and seems to think they can turn Newport around.

Strange, for someone who couldn't even admit his monstrosity of a hotel,which strangely got planning permission is in NEWPORT!!!

What happened too all the Ryder Cup Money Mr Matthews?????

Well said......

Sadly though, the aged Councillors of Newport have no foresight, never have, never will, they look after themselves too much, rather than think what Newport might need and will need in the future.

I stopped using Newport Town Centre years ago, the buses got expensive, parking got stupid, and traffic jams a nightmare.( idiotic street layouts/bus lanes/traffic light junctions and roundabouts designed by buffoons and NOBODY policing them )

Add to that what has already been mentioned by others here, and it was a recipe for disaster. Its the traders who have supported the Centre for years I do feel sorry for, as they are not responsible for the costs we have to pay to try and shop at their premises, those left that are worth shopping at that is.

Cwmbran Shopping was better, but that is now starting to become overfull with Newports Undesireables.

But with the nice dual carriageways heading into and around the Valley's there are some nice places to shop still around, where parking is not a problem and you get the specialist shops , not some overgrown mess of a giant "superstore".

5 hours? but only over Christmas, well I will vote with my money im afraid, and its the internet and quieter alcohol / cafe free shopping street locations for me and my family thank you.
Newport has nothing left to offer me, other than to pop in once in a blue moon to arrange paperwork at the Building Society.

As for those wishing to have 30K or 45K shopping days , you are obviously not locals , as Newport has never been an overly affluent town or city, so maybe rather than wanting the "locals" to have a chav day off, perhaps you should consider moving somewhere more "upmarket" tailored for your needs... I hear UAE is a good place for fools with money.

Umm... you might want to read it again. It was actually a bit of sarcasm between rhinesine and me.

(BTW, UAE is actually a terrible place for fools with money.)

Strider wrote:
The Argus reported that the Cambrian Car park was closing in October so work could start on the New Admiral Building!! This has been delayed since June, I would have thought the 500 odd Admiral Staff would boost Newports Fortune more than 5 hours free parking

You make a good point Strider however, in the longer term the presssure on car parking in the city will only increase. The majority (if not all??)of public parking at Cambrian will go under the Admiral scheme. Their presence will bring additional presssure as many of their staff will drive to work and avaiable spaces in the local streets will be fair game for their 1200 staff. The knock-on effect cause chaos at peak times and further detre shoppers into the city centre.

Thanks Jon, good call on the increased parking troubles... My friend who works in Cambrian says that the Cambrian will be Admiral staff only and the Car Park next to the old Cinema is also being built on by Admirial..

I imagine the RGH parking will further be abused... The amount off cars parked in the fire lanes on the pavements, on bends is ridiculous, Fire Engine couldn't even get down the other day!! Judging from the amount of dents, key marks and general damage to the cars it obvious the Owners don't care.. They cancelled the Hospital Bus last Friday so this may deter a few people

Friend seems to think Admiral will be a good thing for Footfall.. He says the One Stop shop has caused problems; with the amount of people coming in asking where the dole office and annoying customers..

Free parking - park up catch train to Cardiff and do shopping - sorted.

I think the R Gwent has to start clamping..... there was a plumber van parked there last week whilst the workman was in PIll doing a job. They are just parking everywhere and a lot are not attending the hospital at all. The free parking was to alleviate patients visiting for treatment, now, they can't get in.

Forename Surname wrote:
After living in Newport for the past eight years, without getting mugged, abused or attacked in any way, I've finally had enough and I'm moving back to Brighton. Not because of the empty shops or the drunks/chavs/druggie

s/drunk chav druggies. No, it's people like you lot that are SO crushingly depressing in your outlook and attitude (I'm not including the people here who are intelligent enough to see the positives in life/Newport).

If there's a good news story on the SW Argus website it gets about three comments. If it's a bad news article, or an article that will generate snidey, whinging comments (like this one) you lot are all over it like a swarm of over-excited, bilious parasites.

Idiotic statements like there are no independent shops or places to eat in the city centre. Try Hunky Dory's or The Secret Garden cafe on Charles Street. As good, if not better, than anywhere in Cardiff or Bristol. Diverse Records is by far the best record shop in Wales and, unlike Spillers, doesn't trade off a lie (the oldest record shop is in Malta). The Newport Arcade has some fantastic shops, including Bethans and the sweet shop. It did have the best deli that I've been too (Baldocks) but they had to close because of you thick people who, for whatever laughable reason, consider yshopping in Newport beneath you.

Don't blame the 'druggies and chavs' for the state of the city centre. YOU are to blame, for giving up on the place. My girlfriend and I could easily hop in the car to Cardiff and do our shopping there but we make the effort to spend as much money in Newport and, if needs be, we'd go to Bristol or Cardiff for the rest.

Even when something positive like the footbridge being built is met with pathetic and negative comments. The Riverfront Arts Centre is probably a waste of money as well isn't it? I bet none of you visit the beautiful parks in Newport (let me guess - they're all full of drug addicts who will eat your children). You probably don't bother looking up and seeing the wonderful architecture in the city centre.

Newport has SO much potential and, with a population of 150,000 (many of whom live in very affluent parts of the city - though I'm sure some of you will say there aren't any in that ignorant way of yours), there is no reason or excuse for letting YOUR city die, then sit at your computer and moan about it.

So, don't just sit there, letting hate and bitterness overwhelm you - it's not a nice character trait, plus it's the same old, tired and unfunny comments that get churned up EVERY time. Be more original. Don't roll over like a limp-wristed failure let the hoodies win. Try to look at the positives in Newport (of which there are many).

I'm genuinely sad to leave this place. A town/city is what you make it and my girlfriend and I have met some of the friendliest people, been to some of the nicest restaurants, had the fondest memories of our time in Wales - all thanks to Newport. This is what we will remember. As for the rest of you dreary and negative people - forgetting you lot can't come soon enough.

Well said,I think people should stop continually moaning about the negative parts of Newport ( every city has negatives).
What I will say though is Newport city council doesn`t do much to promote what Newport has.I visited Goldcliff last week purely by chance as I didn`t know it was even there but took a wrong turning,lovely country walks with steps leading to the sea and even a little Tea room but not signposted until you actually get there ??
How many other people don`t even know whats on their own doorstep ?

People are not happy seeing their City and area destroyed without a fight. Many 'moans' are in fact practical suggestions for improvement, and a comment on areas of the population who we need to kick out, who respect nothing at all here. I'm well aware of the country walks around Newport, I use them, but we have to live, work and eat too. The City Council is NOT doing enough to encourage any change, everyone is blaming a recession that doesn't seem to be affecting other areas as badly as ours, Newport are doing something wrong. So rather than try to effect change you cut and run ?

If all of the existing Cambrian parking spaces are to be lost under the Admiral scheme what is being done to replace them? Is it not a public facility for which presumably the Council have been paid to hand control of the land over to the developers? The Admiral footfall may help local traders but the City needs full time shoppers not just lunchtime trade and it won't get that without a decent parking provision. Removing this lvel of parking without an immediate replacement is a serious blow.

If all of the existing Cambrian parking spaces are to be lost under the Admiral scheme what is being done to replace them? Is it not a public facility for which presumably the Council have been paid to hand control of the land over to the developers? The Admiral footfall may help local traders but the City needs full time shoppers not just lunchtime trade and it won't get that without a decent parking provision. Removing this lvel of parking without an immediate replacement is a serious blow.

I know the lovely walks are there, but damned if I've been able to find them most of them.

I found the hidden path behind Aldi that goes to Fourteen Locks or Cwmbran, and the Wetlands of course, but Goldcliff still eludes me. Directions would be greatly appreciated!

Dee-Gee wrote:
I know the lovely walks are there, but damned if I've been able to find them most of them.

I found the hidden path behind Aldi that goes to Fourteen Locks or Cwmbran, and the Wetlands of course, but Goldcliff still eludes me. Directions would be greatly appreciated!

Go past Lliswerry high/nash keep going past the entrance to the wetlands,past the Farmers Arms and keep going until you see a sign on the right saying seawall turn down there and go right to the end for the Seawall steps.
It is basically a straight drive all the way down until you turn right at the sign

Dee-Gee wrote:
I know the lovely walks are there, but damned if I've been able to find them most of them.

I found the hidden path behind Aldi that goes to Fourteen Locks or Cwmbran, and the Wetlands of course, but Goldcliff still eludes me. Directions would be greatly appreciated!

Go past Lliswerry high/nash keep going past the entrance to the wetlands,past the Farmers Arms and keep going until you see a sign on the right saying seawall turn down there and go right to the end for the Seawall steps.
It is basically a straight drive all the way down until you turn right at the sign

I worked in the town when i was 19 (im 47 now) and Debenhams has been apparantly coming here since then.That is 28 years ago,you fools do you believe it for one minute?The whole place is closing, people deserted the ship a long time ago.

Adrian Williams wrote:

Llanmartinangel wrote:

Adrian Williams wrote:
What ? Cardiff's bigger so there's more of them ?

No there are actually more people there that can wear proper clothes, walk upright without dragging their knuckles along the ground and can use a knife and fork. Can you name a restaurant in Newport City? The Chandlery went ages back.

Now you're just being ridiculous, generalist and offensive. (Rossini's next to the Riverside Pub is a lovely restaurant by the way). There are lots of good and educated people in Newport but all some people want to do is be snobby and slag the place off constantly and I get sick of hearing it. I admit that it's not perfect (far from it and yes, the council are guilty of making many mistakes), but hopefully it will get better with the new development. I am and always will be proud of my roots - I lived away various places during the 90's, but I love being back here now as I love the people here and the lovely scenery around Newport. (The fact that you're from Llanmartin probably tells it's own story). NEWPORT AND PROUD !

Tell me. Proud of what exactly. The poverty. The massive drug use. The stinking city centre. Are you one of those people who after a show like bouncers showing the town centre for what it is got up and shouted that Newport was a great place, that Newport just 'had its problems'.

The place is a dump it has been badly managed and the majority of people on the town are jobless scum because the decent people go elsewhere to feel safe and enjoy their hard earned middle class wage. How dare you comment on people not wanting to spend time and money worked hard for in a place like Newport posh.

You sir are deluded to be proud of Newport. Be proud of something that has actually achieved something.

Nb: rossinis is not that good it's a meh place where there is nothing else. And I'm sure it's nice looking at beautiful Newport from the riverside, right before you get mugged.

I was born in Newport 40yrs ago and lived there until two months ago, we have moved to Caldicot where my husband is from. I love Newport but the centre has long been dying and it is a very slow death! I closed my centre shop 3 years ago this month.....and if I ever open again in the future then, sorry to say, it will be in an 'out of town' development. My husband still works in Newport city centre (just moved premises again to try and get more footfall!) I tend to like out of town retail parks - which, wether you like it or not, are a part of Newport life now! Just waiting for an asdas to open up in Caldicot now and my world is complete lol everything I want is in the village and a market comes twice a week!

alongfortheride check out Adrian Williams facebook .. He lists drinking as his Hobby; probably why he likes Newport so much.. He also looks like Beaker of the Muppet's..

I'm sick of how Adrian Williams always has to give a aggressive response, as it proves he is obviously unable due to lack of education to hold a meaningful debate, very sad and very predictable!

ITS YOUR OPINION THAT ROSSINI'S IS A LOVELY RESTAURANT YOUR OPINION IS NOT FACT!!!! I have ate in Rossini's food is only okay the Parc Golf Club does far nicer food..

Snobbery and saying Llanmartins a dump kettle black!!

I feel for the traders in Newport Market and Upper Dock St, they've just lost the Market car park and from what I hear trade has gone from bad to worse. The council couldn't of picked a worse time to close it than just before the Christmas season. Instead of wasting money on screening some Wales rugby games live in the Gallery area of the Market when only about 15 people showed up to watch, how about reducing the rent for the struggling traders or is it the councils plan to kill off the Market once and for all !!!!

I loved that post.

Person X is is an uneducated, aggressive person who cannot a meaningful debate... and I'm going to prove it by posting a response that is both uneducated and aggressive, devoid of anything that may be construed as meaningful debate.

Seriously, searching out someone's facebook page and trying to get a laugh by comparing his looks to a character of a kids' show... Passive? Educated? Meaningful debate?

Kettle black? You read my mind.

Strider wrote:
alongfortheride check out Adrian Williams facebook .. He lists drinking as his Hobby; probably why he likes Newport so much.. He also looks like Beaker of the Muppet's..

I'm sick of how Adrian Williams always has to give a aggressive response, as it proves he is obviously unable due to lack of education to hold a meaningful debate, very sad and very predictable!

ITS YOUR OPINION THAT ROSSINI'S IS A LOVELY RESTAURANT YOUR OPINION IS NOT FACT!!!! I have ate in Rossini's food is only okay the Parc Golf Club does far nicer food..

Snobbery and saying Llanmartins a dump kettle black!!

Strider Adrian Williams has the nerve to use his own name when voicing opinions,can we have yours please so we can check out your facebook ? ?........ just saying ;-)