CONCERN has been raised over the state of a mosaic in an underpass near Newport Indoor Market.

Designed and installed in the early 1990s, the artwork, in the underpass of the Old Green Roundabout, celebrates Newport’s market heritage.

But it has begun to fall apart, much to the disappointment of Newport Civic Society.

Nicolas Webb, chairman of the civic society group said: "Our members have expressed concern in the past about the need for preservation of the mosaics.

“I regularly hear that Newport shouldn't aspire to be a mirror image of Cardiff or Bristol but instead to have its own unique selling points.

“This artwork adds real character to the city centre and represents a distinct feature that is instantly recognisable as Newport.

“We cannot afford to lose such an asset."

Councillor Ray Truman, deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, sustainability and transport said about yesterday: “Newport City Council is aware of the condition of this mural which was designed and installed by Kenneth and Oliver Budd in the early 1990s.

“The council hopes to commission Mr Budd to undertake a full condition assessment with a view to replace the damaged panel.”

Uproar was caused in 2013 when a mural depicting the 1839 Chartist uprising was demolished to make way for Friars Walk.

More than 2,500 people signed a petition in an attempt to save it, but Newport council progressed with the plans after saying that moving the mural would cost £600,000 and might not work.