NEWPORT'S business community approves of the city's new transport strategy for regeneration but says it is actions not words that are needed.

With the Southern Distributor Road nearing completion and set to ease some of Newport's traffic burden, Newport Unlimited - the regeneration company charged with revitalising Newport by 2020 - has just released its plans for an integrated transport plan.

And Patrick Long, head of the chamber of commerce ngb2b, applauds the scheme but says traders are hungry for more than just plans.

But Newport Unlimited says "a quick fix" is not an option.

The transport strategy, which aims to attract more businesses and housing developments to Newport, will remodel the rail and bus interchanges, improve car parking and integrate cycle paths and pedestrian walkways into the city centre's road network.

Mr Long, who represents 1,000 businesses in the area, said: "The new road will be a godsend and one of the best developments ever undertaken in Newport in terms of how it will regenerate areas such as Pill and the docks.

"But Newport Unlimited have a really big job - people need to see the rest of the developments begin now to be reassured that the regeneration we all need is coming.

"Nothing has actually happened in the city centre yet and though the current plans could secure long-term good health for Newport business, traders need to see things under way.

"The regeneration of Junction 28 of the M4 will start soon after the Southern Distributor Road is complete.

"That work will cause traffic mayhem - but if we are all made aware of completion dates and any developments in the meantime, it will build trust and patience in the traders and residents affected.

"There has been a lot of 'cloak and dagger' stuff surrounding whether Deben-hams are coming, for example - we need to be kept informed. "This transport system will be the be-all and end-all for Newport - if people can't easily get in and around, they'll bypass Newport altogether." Newport Unlimited's development manager Steve Slocombe said: "We've established a 20-year vision and all partners want to see early implementation of the programme.

"But the emphasis must be on a quality, well-planned strategy."