A new wave of city centre businesses is benefiting from financial support from Newport City Council, including The Circle, Low and Slow, Hounds, and Standard Signs.
Councillor James Clarke recently visited The Circle, Low and Slow, and Hounds to see how last year’s grants have supported their development.
The Circle, a multi-use venue on Market Street run by youth arts and advocacy charity Urban Circle, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
Ali Boksh, co-founder and director of premises and events at The Circle, said they had used the council’s business grant towards the purchase of equipment including a fridge and oven range. Together with a new professional coffee machine, they will be used for the training they offer to young people who working towards qualifications in areas such as food hygiene.
Nearby, barbecue restaurant Low and Slow has quickly become a favourite with diners since opening at Newport Market last month.
It is the first Welsh restaurant venture for owners Jack and Lyndsey Geach.
Mr Geach said: "We have been blown away by our reception.
"We are really pleased to be in the city."
He added that the grant allowed them to invest in essential equipment that has helped them get established.
On Bridge Street, barbershop Hounds used its grant for new chairs, barbering stations, and mirrors.
The shop is preparing to celebrate eight years in business.
Councillor Clarke also visited award-winning business Standard Signs, where owner Sam Hassani explained how the funding helped them invest in a state-of-the-art printer.
Mr Hassani said: "It is more efficient and allows us to be more receptive to what our clients require."
A new business fund and grant scheme are due to launch soon.
Further details and application guidance will be shared on the city council’s public channels in the coming weeks.
Additional information on available business support can be found at www.newport.gov.uk/business.
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