First speaker for business club

Newport City Council Economic Development Manager Rob Frowen Newport was the first lunchtime speaker of the City of Newport Business Club’s 2013/14 season.

Rob, who has been with the Council for 6 years, entitled his talk Newport’s Regeneration: ‘Reality versus Rumour’; and sought to dispel the rumours that ‘Nothing ever happens in Newport…’.

After a welcome from City of Newport Business Club Chairman Janine Dance; Rob took to the stage and gave the listeners an overview of some of the key projects the Council has been working on over the last 5 years.

He highlighted the new Art College building on the river front and the creation of a beautifully landscaped park in the old docks area, along with many other key projects, as clear indicators of the Council’s commitment to ensuring Newport’s place as a leading City in the UK.

Using visual images to back up his points, Rob charted the Council’s progress right up to the present day, as well as showcasing future projects they have in the pipeline.

He spent very little time discussing the imminent retail development within the City centre; choosing instead to take a step back and present the audience with a view of Newport from a wider perspective.

Questions were invited from the floor, and Rob gave frank and honest answers to all those who took the opportunity to find out more.

The next City of Newport Business Club event will take place on Thursday 14th November 2013 with a guest appearance from paraplegic athlete John Harris, the five-times medal winner who is planning on making the first wheelchair ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Tickets to attend the John Harris event cost £35.

To book and to find out more information about the City of Newport Business Club and its 2013/14 events schedule, visit www.newportbusinessclub.co.uk