A NEW group is taking the initiative to boost the image of Newport city centre and attract more people to enjoy what it has to offer.

Regeneration projects are set to make a big difference to the heart of the city, although some may not become a reality for some time.

But there is still plenty going on and Newport Initiative aims to raise its profile through a programme of events and promotions as well as improving communication bet-ween businesses, organisations and users of the centre.

It is led by the new city centre manager Susannah Bulpin and chaired by the council's head of planning and economic regeneration Stewart Wild. Newport Initiative and city centre action plan is being launched next Wednesday at the impressively restored The Gallery on the upper floor of the Provisions Market in the High Street.

It will provide an opportunity to preview some of the exciting new activities being planned for the city centre.

Susannah Bulpin explained the Newport Initiative was focused on working with businesses, mainly retailers, involved in the centre to raise awareness of new projects.

"We want to develop even more events and promotions at Christmas and other key times of the year and a more positive feeling about the city." She added that the business plan focused on a series of actions for the next two years.

"We would like to extend the summer activities and get more of a festival going in July and we are working on that at the moment."

Ms Bulpin said they were considering locations beyond John Frost Square for such events.

"We are also thinking of extending the Christmas activities from more than just the switch-on of the lights," she said

Speakers at next week's launch will include Newport's next mayor, Councillor Ken Critchley while entertainment will be provided by a magician and a classical guitarist.

Ms Bulpin said anyone who was interested in finding about more about the Newport Initiative was welcome to attend.