Construction work has begun on a new £35m city centre campus in Newport that forges links between the best business brains and the cream of local creative talent.

"We want to put Newport on the map and make it a 'must-see' city," said Chris O'Malley, Pro Vice-Chancellor at Newport's University.

"Our vision is to turn Newport's riverfront, once devoted to moving coal and steel out of southeast Wales, into a space that brings visitors in. This whole area has been designated as a cultural zone, and among projects being pursued are a contemporary arts gallery and a national documentary photography archive.


"We want the University's new riverside City Centre Campus to be a hub for the creation of a new 'Left Bank' for Newport, by turning an area which has been derelict until recently into a place where local people, students and visitors will mix and visit cafes, studios, shops, exhibitions and shows. The seeds have already been planted with some of our graduates running small businesses in design, graphics and photography in the area, but this only the beginning.

Commenting on the changes taking place in Newport, Edward Watts, Chairman of Communities First in Pill said: "Growing up in Pill, I don’t think we ever imagined any of the changes that are being proposed for our city. Newport has always been a gateway to the world through its ports and the multicultural mix of its people. As we move forward, opportunities arise for the people of Newport to achieve their aspirations with a real sense of belonging. It's a very exciting time as we rebuild for the future but it’s equally important to remember Newport's past."

(CD/JM)