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Wales Online
Wales Online
Entertainment
Ryan O'Neill

What Newport shopping centres will look like as they reopen on Monday

The major shopping centres in Newport will reopen next week as the country begins to ease lockdown restrictions.

First Minister Mark Drakeford announced plans for non-essential retail in Wales to reopen from Monday June 22 - you can follow all our live updates about the shops that are reopening here.

In Newport, both Friars Walk and the Kingsway Centre have revealed their shops can start serving customers on that day.

Since March both centres have been mostly closed except for certain stores like pharmacies and supermarkets.

But both have now confirmed all shops can reopen next week, though some stores will not reopen immediately.

Friars Walk in Newport will reopen on Monday (Mark Lewis)
New markers on the floor at Friars Walk (Rob Browne)

Friars Walk said major stores such as Debenhams, H&M and River Island would reopen on Monday, and advised customers to check its website for updates on opening hours of other stores.

It's statement reads: "Following government advice, Friars Walk will reopen from Monday 22 June. Please check for opening hours and to see which stores are open," adding that it had made "a number of changes" to help keep customers and staff safe.

How the benches now look at Friars Walk (Rob Browne)

Measures include a one-way system for people in the centre, regular cleaning of touch points like lift buttons and contactless-only payment in the car park.

Shops in the centre will have signs displaying how many customers are permitted at any one time.

"We continue to monitor the situation and the Welsh government’s public health guidance closely, and we will keep all of our visitors updated via our website and social media channels."

The Kingsway Centre said it would also be reopening most stores and would be putting in place a one-way system.

"Social distancing measures have been put in place within the centre and the shops themselves. Hand sanitiser is available at each entrance and exit," it said.

"There is security present at the centre to ensure that guidelines are adhered to and for the safety of all our visitors.

"From Midnight Sunday 21 June the car park charges will resume and charges will apply as per prices prior to lockdown.

"There are currently toilets open opposite the Newport County store, but this will be reviewed regularly to ensure the safety of all our customers and staff.

"One way systems have been put in place and we ask that you adhere to the guidelines to ensure a safe and pleasurable shopping experience for all."

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