2. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:36 pm on 25 January 2022.

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Photo of Lesley Griffiths Lesley Griffiths Labour 2:36, 25 January 2022

Thank you. I don't think this is a problem that's unique to Newport, or indeed unique to Wales. I think all our town centres, unfortunately, have seen a decline in the number of shops; I know certainly, in my own constituency, Wrexham has. So, I really don't think this is an issue that you can lay at the door of Newport local authority. I think it is really important that the Welsh Government continues to work with our local authorities. You'll be aware of the many schemes we have to support our town centres; certainly, the Transforming Towns scheme is one of great importance. I recently visited Bangor, in my capacity as Minister with responsibility for north Wales, to see what actions they were taking to reinvent, if you like, our town centres.