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Historic Newport Store to Become Retail and Flats After Cannabis Farm Discovery

4/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Wildings department store in Newport, Wales, closed in January 2019 after 144 years.
It has since fallen into disrepair, with reports of a cannabis farm inside.
The building was purchased in 2024 by local entrepreneurs Mo and Naj.
It is slated for redevelopment into retail space and 20 residential flats.
Adrian Daja and Andi Shabani were sentenced to two years in prison for drug production.

History

Historical Context

The closure of Wildings department store in Newport, Wales, in January 2019 ended its 144-year legacy, mirroring the decline of traditional department stores since the 1980s. This trend reflects broader urban decay, as seen in cities like Detroit, which experienced a 25% population decline from 1950 to 2010. Entrepreneurs Mo and Naj's redevelopment plans aim to revitalize the area, potentially inspiring similar initiatives across Wales.

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Story summary

The Wildings department store in Newport, Wales, closed in January 2019 after 144 years.
It has since fallen into disrepair, with reports of a cannabis farm inside.
The building was purchased in 2024 by local entrepreneurs Mo and Naj.
It is slated for redevelopment into retail space and 20 residential flats.
Adrian Daja and Andi Shabani were sentenced to two years in prison for drug production.

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