Sport sits right at the heart of Newport – both physically and culturally.
Rodney Parade has served as a centre for professional sport in Newport for decades, inspiring sports fans of all ages, and providing a home to both rugby and football teams for the city to get behind.
Economically, the footfall generated by match days in the city centre and the value it brings to the hospitality and visitor sector across Newport is vital.
But the reach of The Dragons extends far beyond Rodney Parade and matches – the values and ethos of the team reach community members of all ages every day of the week. From the impressive Stay and Play Sessions (one of which I enjoyed over the summer) to the Dragons Dementia Group and everything in between, if we lose the Dragons in Newport our communities lose vital services that people depend on. Without the Dragons, these community initiatives face closure, removing essential support systems for families, the elderly, and vulnerable residents, and this will no doubt impact on other public services.
I urge the Welsh Rugby Union to consider this and to ensure that top-flight rugby remains in Newport.