TWELVE jobs at Newport Live remain at risk of being lost following a consultation which saw nearly 100 staff put at risk of redundancy.

The charitable trust, which provides sport, leisure and cultural services in the city, placed 97 of its 448 workers at risk of redundancy on September 29, after being “significantly impacted” by Welsh Government coronavirus regulations.

But chief executive, Steve Ward, said it has since secured support from Newport City Council and the Arts Council of Wales.

“Newport Live have today confirmed that the collective consultation process for all colleagues has ended,” Mr Ward said.

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“We are extremely grateful to have secured support from Newport City Council and their Welsh Government hardship fund as well as Arts Council of Wales.

“We have received further clarity from UK Government in relation to the job support schemes for both open and closed businesses.

“However, sadly 12 job roles within Newport Live remain at risk of redundancy and me and my team continue to seek alternatives for those affected and to support them through this difficult time.”

All of the trust’s facilities are currently closed due to the ‘firebreak’ lockdown in Wales.

Mr Ward said Newport Live recognises coronavirus restrictions have been “for the benefit of the wider population”, but he said they are having “a significant impact”.

“Newport Live remains committed to delivering services for local customers and we are encouraging local people to adhere to the Welsh Government guidelines and follow the Firebreak guidance,” he added.

“We are keen to see our services return from November 9 so that we can retain services and roles for our colleagues across sport, leisure, theatre, arts and culture as soon as possible.”

Funding secured includes £126,770 from the Arts Council of Wales to help safeguard the future of the Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre.

The money, intended to cover the period until March of next year, has been awarded as part of a fund of £27.5 million to help arts organisations across Wales survive the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

An additional £50,000 of funding has been awarded for the theatre to develop the foyer into a Covid-safe performance space with an updated catering offer.