Malpas Road reveals sweet treats, crispy cod and local charm.

A walk along Malpas Road in Newport highlights independent shops such as Barnardo's, Sub Zero Ice Cream and Charlie's Fish Bar (established 1922).

Malpas Road can feel like a place to rush through, but a closer look reveals independent shops with history and local character. The road is part of Newport, with Cwmbran nearby, and carries steady traffic that contrasts with the calmer pavement life. A visit noted several small businesses along the street offering charity goods, sweet treats, everyday essentials, traditional fish and chips, and a friendly hairdresser. Together they form a quiet cluster of local services and social spaces. Notable local businesses: - Barnardo's charity shop on Malpas Road offers secondhand goods and supports Barnardo's fundraising; a small purchase (a baby jacket) was noted at a reported price of £3.20. - Sub Zero Ice Cream provides a wide range of flavours, from classic chocolate and vanilla to novelty choices such as bubble-gum and candy-floss. - Malpas Pharmacy supplies prescriptions and health advice and also carries small gift items like candles, mugs and plates. - Charlie's Fish Bar, established in 1922, is a long-running local chippy known for battered cod. - Shirley's Hairdressers is run by Shirley Reynolds and is described as a social hub that includes a resident grey Cockerpoo-type dog called Charlie. Summary: These independent shops add history, convenience and character to a busy thoroughfare and play visible roles in everyday local life. Their presence helps maintain a varied local high street and preserves familiar services and traditions. Undetermined at this time.