TRADERS in Newport welcomed news that the city’s Friar’s Walk development will begin this year, with one urging the council to “pull out all the stops”, saying “we are all sinking very, very quickly”.

Mike Turner, who runs AD Turner butchers in Newport Market said all retailers in the city are fighting hard to save jobs, with the ongoing saga leaving “all businesses absolutely desperate”.

They received a boost yesterday with the Welsh Government pledging £1.5 million to kick start the development, which will include a shopping centre, cinema, restaurant and bars.

Economy minister Edwina Hart announced the cash, which will mean regeneration work, and demolition can begin by the end of the year.

Mr Turner said: “The sooner the better, we are all absolutely desperate as this situation has just gone beyond. We have endured so much in one period, with other things like work on the market entrance and the closure of car parks - Newport is now the laughing joke of south Wales.

“After all the negativity, I have got to be positive about this, it is good news. But, I just hope the council pulls out all the stops as all of us traders are sinking very, very quickly.”

His words were echoed by nightclub owner Iftekhar Haris, who called on the council to do more for local businesses while disruptions continue.

Mr Haris owns five nightspots, one he says is “just barely surviving”, another he rarely opens as it is too expensive and one he now rents out.

But, despite the difficult times in the city, he has shown his commitment to Newport by buying the old council tax office on Cambrian Road for £180,000. He plans to redevelop it and rent it as a shop unit.

Mr Haris said: “I had a subdued reaction to the news to be honest. I’m pleased, really happy it’s happening, but the council need to do more to protect businesses, those that are working hard to stay in the city.

“I’m all for the development, but the traders who are working hard to stay in the city are struggling every day. They need help, perhaps with reduced business rates or with increased parking for customers.”

Meanwhile, a Newport council spokeswoman said the £1.5 million will not be used to demolish the city’s iconic Chartist murala controversial proposal that forms pa