Calls have been made for tougher security in central Newport following burglaries at five commercial premises within one week.

Welsh Conservative Senedd member Natasha Asghar and Newport council opposition leader Matthew Evans raised concerns about policing, CCTV and support for traders.

Their comments followed Xclusive Jewellers owner Annette Farmer’s decision to close the family business after another burglary. The shop was broken into on June 1. Asghar said repeated incidents were affecting Farmer and her family, and called on Newport City Council to invest in surveillance and other security measures.

Asghar also asked the UK Government to take further action on repeat offending. Her office on Serpentine Road, near Newport railway station, had windows smashed in July.

Evans said the run of incidents was harming traders financially and affecting their wellbeing. He said businesses should not have to operate while fearing another break-in.

Gwent Police superintendent Esyr Jones acknowledged the concern caused by an increase in reported crime and the effect of burglary on livelihoods. Police said Operation Krypton had led to arrests and charges.

Newport City Council said its public protection service remained active in the centre and was working with businesses through Newport Now, PubWatch and Safer Newport.