The whole of last week saw amazing footfall with figures up 20 per cent on the previous week and up 12 per cent on the same week last year.
Partners at Friars Walk also recorded double the footfall of a normal Saturday.
And there is so much more to head into the city centre for over the coming weeks as all our Festive Newport activities ramp up.
Tomorrow sees the opening of Newport’s first ever Winter Wonderland in the heart of the city centre. Boasting a real ice rink, you can also enjoy the rides, stalls, festive food, bar and marshmallow toasting.
Free parking in council-owned city centre car parks on Saturdays has also started and runs until the last Saturday in December.
Panto at the Riverfront Theatre starts next week with Dick Whittington and his trusty cat telling the tale of their epic journey from Newport in search of fame, fortune, friendship and adventure.
During December there are also Christmas markets, visits from Santa, Christmas sing-alongs, choir performances, festive runs and so much more, both in the city centre and across Newport.
If you’re looking for a gift for that special someone, don’t forget that more than 60 per cent of city centre businesses are independent. We’re proud of what’s on offer and we’re sure you can find that perfect gift close to home.
Councillor Dimitri Batrouni, leader of Newport City Council, said: “The atmosphere in Newport last weekend was amazing and I thoroughly enjoyed being part of the celebrations. But it’s also great to see that people are coming into Newport throughout the week and in increasing numbers. Festive Newport means there will be something for everyone over the coming weeks, but it won’t stop there. We’re already making plans for 2025 to make sure Newport thrives all year round.”
