Ringland, a district in Newport, has established itself as one of the city’s most promising neighbourhoods undergoing significant transformation.

More than £75 million has been secured for Ringland’s regeneration and future growth. The question is how this substantial investment has been utilised to enhance the area for both residents and visitors.

Kiln Square stands out as an impressive project – a lively hub where locals and visitors gather, featuring an appealing mix of independent retailers and established brands.

Our visit to Ringland assessed the progress of the new development.

One business drawing attention was Plaice To Be, a long-running local fish and chip shop with deep community ties. The establishment has served the Newport community for over three decades.

Managed by proprietor Islam Ulhaq, aged 40, it was evident this neighbourhood favourite would continue serving customers for years ahead.

Islam discussed the redevelopment and the recent relocation to Kiln Square, which occurred earlier this month. According to the Argus, he mentioned that the area was satisfactory and operated as a family business, adding that the loyalty of customers who continued visiting despite the move spoke volumes, and new faces were now appearing.

He observed that the development was advancing well with considerable progress on the residential flats.

Another notable culinary destination was Beth’s Bakes, operated by Beth Sims, a well-regarded independent bakery.

Regular patrons were seen entering and leaving with containers of freshly baked items, with at least one customer describing it as Newport’s finest bakery.

The portions were generous and service was exceptional, with Beth herself proving exceptionally welcoming and talkative while attending to shoppers.

She noted that they had launched at the start of April after moving from Church Road in Newport.

She stated that the response from everyone had been wonderful and the development was constantly busy with a genuine community atmosphere, expressing pride at being part of it.

An established food outlet at Kiln Square was the newly opened Greggs branch. Famous for its flaky pastries and fruit-filled doughnuts, this beloved chain also attracted considerable interest to the revamped Ringland area.

Greggs additionally provides indoor seating, ideal for those seeking a change of environment for a friendly catch-up over a sausage roll.

One shopper, who preferred to remain anonymous, remarked that this was their fourth doughnut and they had been rather bold today.

Alongside Greggs’ hearty food options, Costcutter delivers a convenient and expanded shopping service for Ringland residents.

This is no longer merely a corner shop – it operates as a spacious Costcutter featuring additional staff and an extended product range. A substantial alcohol section combined with essential household items positions the store to serve the community effectively for years to come.

For residents of the flats situated above the shops, it offers a practical trip downstairs – and an environmentally conscious option too, reducing the need for travel.

Costcutter employees had extensive views on the redevelopment. They acknowledged the area had improved considerably but felt certain aspects still required attention.

The manager noted that bins were definitely needed in the vicinity, pointing out that the grand opening had taken place yet no waste facilities existed, and additional seating for elderly visitors was necessary.

Some older residents mentioned that the neighbourhood had lost its community character. No resting places existed for them and public conveniences were unavailable. The park across the road was described as being in a poor state, with only a small bin present that was simply overflowing with cans.

They further commented that while it represented progress, minor adjustments were required. Parking presented difficulties; loading bays prohibited parking, resulting in some customers receiving £100 penalties. They felt additional support was needed. Substantial funds had been invested and establishing the businesses had required considerable adaptation.

For staff, the time restrictions on parking created problems. Eight-hour shifts meant they could not utilise the spaces. They parked on the opposite side of the road where the limit was ninety minutes, with no return permitted within the same four-hour window.

However, food and provisions were not the only offerings. Further along, a newly built pharmacy had opened. Although closed during our visit, its significance for community healthcare was evident, complementing the 19 Hills development further down the street.

Just nearby, an attractive park and open space was visible – an area families throughout the neighbourhood were clearly enjoying.

This sits reasonably close to ongoing construction work, with the district appearing to be evolving positively.

Does this neighbourhood demonstrate the city’s progress?