Loading
There is no summary of this meeting yet. One is written once the council publishes the minutes. The agenda and papers are below.
Councillor Sterry asked: Newport, like many city centres across the country, continues to face challenges with a high number of empty shop units. While I am aware that the Council’s Regeneration Team is actively working to attract new tenants and bring investment into these spaces, I believe there may also be an opportunity to make more positive and creative use of some of these vacant premises during the festive period. With this in mind, I would like to suggest a city-wide initiative for Christmas 2026 that could bring together all 21 wards across Newport. The idea would be for each ward—coordinated by its local councillors and supported by community groups, schools, and residents—to “adopt” one empty shop unit within the city centre and transform it into a Christmas-themed window display. Each display could reflect the ward’s own character, creativity, and community spirit. Themes could range from traditional festive scenes and recycled-material decorations to displays celebrating local history or highlighting community projects. These displays could be viewed as part of a city-wide “Christmas Trail”, encouraging residents from every part of Newport to visit the city centre, see all the ward displays, and take part in a shared community event. Such an initiative would: Help increase footfall into the city centre at a key retail period. Showcase Newport’s community pride and creativity. Make positive temporary use of empty units without long-term commitments. Offer opportunities for schools, youth groups, and volunteers to get involved in a civic project. Potentially attract sponsorship or small business support for materials or prizes. Would the Leader therefore be willing to explore this idea with officers in the Regeneration and City Services teams, with a view to developing a pilot for next year’s festive season, perhaps under a city-wide banner such as “A Ward for Christmas”, so that every community can play a part in brightening up the heart of our city? Councillor Clarke responded: Unfortunately, the council does not own any vacant retail premises in Newport centre and access to any premises would be entirely dependent on property owners. However, through the Happy Hoardings scheme we have added artwork to the frontages of most empty retail units, and will shortly be addressing the rest.
Councillors must say when they have a personal link to something being discussed, such as a job, a property or a family member. A prejudicial interest is one strong enough that the councillor usually leaves the room and takes no part.
Declarations are read from the minutes once they are published.
The council hasn't recorded attendance for this meeting.
Lists the council's current councillors only. Co-opted members, officers and former councillors aren't shown.