Castle work 'designs out crime'

Since the fencing only four minor offences have taken place

Crime has virtually disappeared from Newport Castle after it was fenced off and had a £25,000 lighting makeover after a spate of crimes.

Gwent Police had dealt with 52 calls including sexual offences, nuisance behaviour and robbery in the area.

Since the modifications last month, there have been no serious assaults, according to the local authority.

Police inspector Simon Jeffries thanked Newport Council to improve the image of the city and helped "design out crime".

Given the serious nature of the offending taking place there, it could potentially save someone's life Councillor Ray Truman

Gwent Police say they had dealt with hundreds of complaints of unlawful activity near the historic monument since 2004.

Police advised shutting the path because of the crime taking place around the area.

The walkway was closed around the 14th century ruin after talks with historic monuments agency Cadw and Newport Council.

The public were also consulted on the closing the footpath, used as a shortcut by many.

Councillor Ray Truman, cabinet member for community safety and sustainability, said the crime reduction was very good news.

"It was a difficult decision to make but given the serious nature of the offending taking place there, it could potentially save someone's life," he said.