Newport trade team fails to secure extra cash
A team formed to boost trade in Newport town centre has failed in its last-ditch attempt to secure an extra £4,000 from the town council.
The Town Team was disappointed that Newport Town Council had only offered £1,000 as an annual grant for the year ahead – despite the group requesting £5,000 to part-fund its manager.
The group picked up the full £5,000 last year.
The reduced grant was rubber-stamped at the town council's meeting last night, despite a late plea for more support.
David Parker, chairman of Newport Civic Society and also a member of the Town Team, told councillors: "In the last 12 months we have seen significant improvements in the town as a result of the work of the Town Team.
"We were shocked to hear about the 80 per cent planned reduction in funding from the council to the Town Team.
"The Town Team needs to survive for a further 12 months.
"Just one per cent of the council's budget could make an immense difference."
Several Town Team members and supporters packed into the Guildhall to hear the debate.
But councillors said they did not feel they could offer the group any more money last night.
They did, however, stress that the Town Team was welcome to ask for more grant funding throughout the year if it needs extra cash.
Councillor Tony Forrester said: "Although a grant is set tonight, it doesn't mean that there won't be more money in the future." Town clerk Lee Jakeman said £5,000 had been put aside to deal with grant applications throughout the year – an increase of £2,000 from last year. Councillors said that the Town Team should be doing more to raise its own funds.
The group's long-term aim is to be entirely self-sufficient by taking membership fees from businesses.
Councillor Peter Scott suggested that the council match-funds any money the group manages to make itself up to the value of £4,000.
He said: "I think we have an opportunity here to prove that we support the Town Team. I think match-funding would show willing from us and the traders in the town."
Councillor Rodney Pitt added: "If they achieve what they say they will achieve we should support them in what they are doing."
The Town Team was formed after the Portas Review into high streets and town centres.
