WHAT! No seats in Newport’s Commercial Street for shoppers to take a break (Mr M Packer, September 6) and the city centre (Mr Julian R Powell, September 7) described as a scene of devastation.

I wonder if these gentlemen are aware that the Newport Labour Party is again in power and must be responsible for the further dereliction of our once attractive and very popular town. Who is managing (or mismanaging) the city of Newport and does anybody at the Civic Centre give a hoot about the safety hazards and despondency faced by Newport shoppers and traders alike? On a cheerful note, if we are to believe the latest artist’s impressions, new seats will be placed in the city’s Commercial Street some time – semi-circular in shape without backrests or sides. Looks like another safety risk!

Brian Donovan, Darlington Court, Newport