I SEE that the destruction of the Chartist mural is still in the news – who is the present owner of the Westgate Hotel? Why, after an expensive refurbishment – very tastefully done – it suddenly closed – it was then put up for sale, without finding a purchaser, it was then offered for rent without success – is it a listed building?

Can a rich benefactor not be found to purchase the building and lease it to the council to house the library museum and reference library, the shop next door – presently empty and for rent, could become the Chartist Museum.

Incidentally, what has happened to the Newport Civic Society, originally set up to try to protect Newport’s heritage? Their reaction to the proposal to send the Newport Ship to York and the destruction of the Chartist Mural resulted in a deafening silence.

Brian J. J. Jelf Stelvio Park Avenue Newport