TRADERS and politicians have welcomed the news that Friars Walk shopping centre will officially open its doors in Newport on November 12.

The scheme is currently 65 per cent let, with confirmed tenants including Debenhams, Next, H&M, Cineworld, Nandos, and Frankie & Benny’s.

Friars Walk is set to be one of only three shopping centres forecast to open in the UK in 2015.

Iftekhar Haris, who owns five nightspots in the city, said: “This will bring jobs to the local area.

“We can’t expect 16 or 17 year olds to look for a part-time job in Cardiff or Bristol and this could keep the kids off the streets.

“It will make it more attractive for people to pop into the city centre and there will be more money in the local area.”

Jon Powell, a kiosk owner on Newport High Street, said: “With everything closing at 5pm or 6pm, there has not been much going on and this will boost the atmosphere and make Newport a nicer place to be.

“It’s a boost for morale.”

Steve Reynolds, owner of Toy Army in Newport Market, said: “It will bring other businesses back into the area and hopefully the whole town will benefit.

“It might bring back customers who miss going into town for a day of shopping and have instead gone into Cwmbran or Cardiff.”

Alan Edwards, president of Newport Chamber of Trade, said: “It could save the city.

“Since 2005, it’s been very, very, very difficult.

“There’s been very poor trading in the past 10 years and those that can survive will benefit.”

Mayor of Newport, Councillor Matthew Evans, said: “It will have the added impact of encouraging other investors and is another feather in the cap for the city centre. It will increase the footfall and is a wonderful opportunity for independent traders to be able to exploit.

“Hopefully, this will encourage more people into the city centre.”

Jessica Morden, MP for Newport East, said: “It has been noticeable how much progress has been made in recent months, with many Newport residents talking positively about the real progress being made.

“It’s an exciting time for Newport and there is a real buzz around the city.”

Newport West AM Rosemary Butler said: “Friars Walk is a dynamic shopping and leisure destination for our city incorporating a diverse mix of retailers and restaurants.

“I’m looking forward to visiting and using Friars Walk when it opens.”

Cllr Bob Bright, leader of Newport City Council, said: “This regeneration scheme has transformed the city centre and with the opening in our sights our residents can look forward to a development that will give them big brand shops, restaurants, entertainment and new employment opportunities, particularly in the run up to the festive period.”