Once a promising redevelopment, ‘The Hub’ on Newport’s Mill Street now stands as an empty, vandalised shell. Originally the city’s Royal Mail sorting office, it was set to become a bustling hotel and office space back in 2018. However, those plans fizzled out, leaving Garrison Barclay Estates (GBE) to step in with ambitious plans for modern office facilities. Despite the project’s completion, the building hasn’t welcomed any tenants and has instead become a playground for vandals.
Images reveal damaged windows, fires at entryways, and graffiti adorning the walls. Overgrown weeds and strewn litter now decorate what was meant to be a centrepiece of Newport’s business boom. The hope was that companies like global data firm W2 and software experts OLM would breathe new life into the space by 2022. Sadly, it remains bare, though Andrew McCarthy from GBE reassures that all is not lost. He recently confirmed they’ve secured tenants, with an exciting announcement anticipated for October and occupancy scheduled for spring 2026.
Despite the setbacks, there is optimism in the air. Security measures are stepping up, and repairs are underway. The dream for ‘The Hub’ to become a vibrant business hub remains alive, ready to sprout once again from its current state of disarray. Keep an eye out as Newport continues its journey to revitalisation!