Newport

Newport is a city and unitary authority area in south east Wales, on the River Usk close to its confluence with the Severn Estuary, 12 miles (19 km) northeast of Cardiff. With a population of 145,700 at the 2011 census, Newport is the third largest city in Wales.

History

Newport has been a port since medieval times, when the first Newport Castle was built by the Normans. The town outgrew the earlier Roman town of Caerleon, immediately upstream, and gained its first charter in 1314. It grew significantly in the 19th century, when its port became the focus of coal exports from the eastern South Wales Valleys.

Economy

Newport's economy had a broad base, with foundries, engineering works, a cattle market and shops that served much of Monmouthshire. However, the docks were in decline even before the Great Depression, and local unemployment peaked at 34.7% in 1930: high for Wales, but not as high as many other parts of Britain.

Landmarks

Newport is home to a number of annual festivals and events, including the Newport Wales Marathon, the Newport Jazz Festival, and the Newport Folk Festival. The city is also home to several professional sports teams, including the Newport County A.F.C., the Newport Gwent Dragons, and the Newport RFC.

Education

Newport is home to the University of South Wales, which was formed by the merger of the University of Wales, Newport and the University of Glamorgan in 2013. The city also has a number of other educational institutions, including Newport College, Newport High School, and Newport Grammar School.

Transport

Newport is well connected by transport links, with the M4 motorway and the Great Western main line providing fast access to Cardiff, Bristol and London. The city also has a number of local bus services, operated by Newport Bus.

See also

• List of cities in Wales
• List of towns in Wales

External links

• Newport City Council

Newport Resources
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