NEWPORT council Labour leader Bob Bright gave a statement to the Argus yesterday, five days after his party won control of the council.

Cllr Bright pledged to keep Argus readers informed and said the city was going through a “historic” period of reinvention.

The Labour leader yesterday said he is now “pleased to be able to officially comment”

on last week’s events.

“I am, of course, delighted with the result and would like to thank the voters of Newport for rewarding us with their support,” he said.

He said the weekend provided a “welcome opportunity to take stock” and prepare for the implementation of the party’s election manifesto.

Ahead of the new council being formed and its leader confirmed at the council’s annual general meeting on May 22, he said he is focused on getting “the building blocks in place” to deliver on the party’s promises.

“Newport is going through an historic period of reinvention,”

added Cllr Bright.

“A city big enough to succeed, with communities small enough to care, we must emphasise our excellent schools, hopes for our city centre developments and growing interest from investors across the UK.”

However he said Newport was a different place “like the rest of the UK” since the last Labour term of office but the party is committed to making a difference.

“I pledge to keep you informed on how we are progressing, and welcome the support and challenge when necessary of the local media,”

he added.

Cllr Bright said there would be further announcements before the new council is officially inaugurated.