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Newport RFC Announces "The Region" - New Training & Community Hub

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/1 .. unces-the-region-new-training-community-hub.html
  Published in House and Home on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 8:10 GMT by Wales Online
      Locales: Wales, UNITED KINGDOM

Newport, Wales - February 12th, 2026 - Newport RFC today solidified its commitment to both on-field performance and community engagement with the official unveiling of plans for "The Region," a state-of-the-art training and community facility set to become the club's new home. The ambitious project represents a substantial investment in the future of Newport RFC and signals a renewed focus on fostering rugby participation at all levels within the city.

The announcement, made this morning, detailed a comprehensive plan that extends far beyond simply upgrading training grounds. "The Region" will encompass a 3G pitch ensuring year-round playability, a fully-equipped gymnasium for player conditioning and public access, versatile meeting rooms for community groups and club administration, a modern lounge designed as a social hub, and significantly improved changing facilities - a necessity for attracting and retaining talent.

"This is an exciting time for Newport RFC and the wider Newport community," stated Martyn Fowler, Newport RFC Chairman. "'The Region' will be a hub for rugby and much more. It's a statement of intent, demonstrating our belief in the potential of this club and the power of sport to unite people." Fowler emphasized the club's historical role as a central pillar of the Newport community, noting that the new facility will amplify these efforts, creating expanded opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to engage with rugby.

The project's funding structure highlights a collaborative approach. Newport RFC has successfully secured financial backing from a diverse range of sources, including critical support from the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), a significant contribution from Newport City Council, and investment from private backers keen to support the club's vision. This multi-faceted funding model underscores the widespread recognition of Newport RFC's value to the city and its sporting landscape.

The timing of this announcement is particularly noteworthy. It follows closely on the heels of the appointment of Ian McIntosh as the club's new Head of Rugby. McIntosh, slated to take the reins at the end of the current season, brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for developing winning teams. Combining a revitalized training infrastructure with strong leadership promises a potent formula for on-field success. Observers suggest that the WRU's support for 'The Region' is partially linked to its confidence in McIntosh's ability to elevate Newport RFC's performance and contribution to Welsh rugby as a whole.

Beyond the immediate benefits to the club's playing squad, 'The Region' is intended to function as a vibrant community resource. Plans are already underway to host coaching clinics for local schools, run introductory rugby sessions for beginners, and provide facilities for local community groups to host meetings and events. The lounge area, in particular, is envisioned as a welcoming space for fans and residents to connect and foster a strong sense of club spirit.

The choice of the name, "The Region," is also deliberate. Club officials state it reflects a commitment to serving not just the city of Newport, but the broader surrounding areas. They aim to become a regional center of excellence for rugby, attracting players and supporters from across South Wales. This regional strategy aligns with the WRU's broader goals of strengthening rugby participation at the grassroots level and developing the next generation of Welsh rugby stars.

Construction is slated to begin in the coming months, with an anticipated completion date in late 2025. The chosen site, details of which are still to be fully disclosed, has been carefully selected for its accessibility and potential for future expansion. The club is committed to minimizing disruption to the local community during the construction phase and is actively engaging with residents to address any concerns.

The development of 'The Region' marks a turning point for Newport RFC, transforming it from a historic club with a proud tradition into a modern, forward-thinking organization poised for sustained success. It's a testament to the club's dedication to its community, its players, and the future of Welsh rugby.