A NEW group aimed at helping boost Newport’s future has met for the first time.

The Newport Economic Network executive group is made up of councillors, business people and academics and has the aim of bringing further investment to the city and ensuring that the recommendations of the Re Newport taskforce are delivered.

A spokesman for the group, which includes Newport City Council leader Councillor Bob Bright, chief executive of the Celtic Manor Resort Ian Edwards and head teacher of Newport High School Karyn Keane, said: “Newport stands on the brink of an exciting new era and co-ordination of resources has never been more important."

Other memBers of the executive group are Councillor John Richards, cabinet member for regeneration, investment and housing; Julie Lydon, vice chancellor of the University of South Wales; Amanda Davies, chief executive, Seren Group; Neil Ward, chief executive, FAW Trust; Simon Powell, chief executive, Core Place Capital; Roger Hiscott, local entrepreneur; and Karen Thomas, Airbus.

An invitation to participate has also been made to Welsh Government as they are key partners in the development of the city.

The network will operate as a broad partnership involving key stakeholders in the city from the private, public and voluntary sectors as well as local forums representing a range of interests including the creative and ICT sectors, retail, culture, media, sport, tourism and business groups.

Councillor Bob Bright said: “It is no secret that Newport is an ambitious city and the regeneration of our city centre will become a reality later this year. However, that is just the tip of the iceberg. We want to work with our partners to secure the best possible opportunities for all our communities. We want to help make Newport a confident, modern city, working to maximise the benefit of the economy of Wales.

“I am looking forward to sharing plans for how we can work together to secure the best possible future for our city.”