Final update from police on severe weather ...

Severe weather update 10.15pm February 12th

The Multi Agency response to the severe weather affecting all north Wales will now stand down as weather conditions have eased.

 

Although the weather has subsided advice from North Wales Police remains the same of not travelling or venturing out unless absolutely necessary and as earlier outlined for the latest road information check Traffic Wales particularly when planning travel in tomorrow’s rush hour.

 

The Britannia Bridge will remain closed until at least mid-morning (Thursday 13^th February) with the Suspension Bridge closed to high sided vehicles until further notice.

 

Mold Road Wrexham will also remain closed until mid-morning and likely to cause delays for motorists linking to the A483.  The Nant y Garth pass in Ruthin is also closed until tomorrow.

 

Scottish Power are still working on resupplying lost power throughout the region but their efforts are being hampered by the conditions and felled trees blocking roads .

 

Chief Inspector Darren Wareing who has led the Multi Agency response from Police HQ “Although the conditions have improved they are still very difficult for motorists with many roads partly blocked through fallen trees and other debris.  I’d advise motorists to plan well ahead for tomorrow morning or even postpone the journey until conditions return fully to normality.

 

“Our efforts are focused onto clearing roads, restoring power and returning the area to normality as quickly but as safely as possible.   I would still advise extra care to be taken if any journey needs to be made on foot due to roofing materials dislodged by high winds.

 

“I’d also like to sincerely thank the local and motoring communities for their patience, understanding and common sense which has helped ease the burden on Emergency Services”

 

“In order to allow emergency services sufficient time to attend I would also ask that contact is kept at an appropriate and sensible level so our resources can be deployed where absolutely necessary.   For any issues about fallen trees or debris that are not affecting traffic or risk to the public please call 101.  Only dial 999 if there is a risk to life.”

 

People are also asked if they can to continue to look out for elderly vulnerable neighbours and friends.

 

Commuters are being advised to contact Train or Bus services to ascertain if they will be operating in the morning. 

 

Ferry passengers arriving at Holyhead Port are being advised by Stena to remain within the confines of the Port until onward travel is possible.

 

North Wales Police have deployed extra resources and are asking members of the public to assist by staying away from affected areas for their own safety and to allow Emergency Service unhindered access. 

 

For further updates monitor local TV and Radio stations and Police Social Media and if anyone has any concerns phone 101 or in an emergency 999 and appropriate resources will be deployed.

 

For up to date traffic conditions in the area visit  http://www.traffic-wales.com/

Severe weather update 9.00pm February 12th

12/02/2014 The Multi Agency response to the severe weather affecting all north Wales continues.

 

The ‘Red’ severe weather warnings remain in place as does advice from North Wales Police of not travelling or venturing out unless absolutely necessary.  For the latest road information check Traffic Wales.

 

The Britannia Bridge remains closed to all traffic with the Suspension Bridge closed to high sided vehicles with other traffic flowing freely.  Scottish Power are still working on resupplying lost power throughout the region.

 

Chief Inspector Darren Wareing who is managing the Multi Agency response from Police HQ in Colwyn Bay said  “The weather continues unabated throughout the whole region and all emergency services are fully committed.   Our advice remains the same.  Please stay indoors where possible as roads are still affected by fallen trees and other debris.   Traffic is affected throughout the region and so any unnecessary travel is adding to the problem.   Extra care should also be taken if any journey needs to be made on foot due to roofing materials dislodged by high winds.

 

“The Multi Agency response will continue until weather and road condition improve however I would also ask that contact with the emergency services is kept at an appropriate and sensible level so our resources can be deployed where absolutely necessary.   For any issues about fallen trees or debris that are not affecting traffic or risk to the public please call 101. Only dial 999 if there is a risk to life.”

 

People are also asked if they can to continue to look out for elderly vulnerable neighbours and friends.

 

Train services remain suspended throughout north Wales with many roads affected by fallen trees and other debris.

 

North Wales Police have deployed extra resources and are asking members of the public to assist by staying away from affected areas for their own safety and to allow Emergency Service unhindered access. 

 

For further updates monitor local TV and Radio stations and Police Social Media and if anyone has any concerns phone 101 or in an emergency 999 and appropriate resources will be deployed.

 

For up to date traffic conditions in the area visit  http://www.traffic-wales.com/

 

Severe weather update from North Wales Police - 7.25pm February 12th

The Multi Agency response to the severe weather affecting north Wales continues.

 

‘Red’ severe weather warnings remain in place with North Wales Police advising not to travel unless absolutely necessary and for those whose need is essential to allow extra time, drive within the conditions and check Traffic Wales for updates.

 

The Britannia Bridge remains closed to all traffic with the Suspension Bridge closed to high sided vehicles.  Scottish Power are attending affected properties throughout the region.

 

HGVs are being directed to Bryn Cefni in Llangefni and Bryn Cegin in Bangor where they are being ‘stacked’ until the weather improves and Red Cross are on site providing refreshments.

 

Chief Inspector Darren Wareing who is managing the Multi Agency response from Police HQ in Colwyn Bay said  “The weather is still atrocious and slowly moving across the force area in an easterly direction.   Our message remains the same to stay indoors where ever possible as roads are becoming impassable in coastal areas and inland due to falling trees and debris including roofing.   Please don’t travel unless it is absolutely necessary.”

 

The officer also added for those who are able to check upon the welfare of any vulnerable neighbours and friends.

 

Train services have been suspended throughout north Wales.

 

Roads currently closed in the area include the A470 at Glan Conwy and A483 Chirk Viaduct due to a downed tree and strong winds respectively.  Mold Road Wrexham is also closed by the football ground and is unlikely to reopen by the morning rush hour.

 

North Wales Police have deployed extra resources and are asking members of the public to assist by staying away from affected areas, not just for their own safety but also to allow Emergency Service vehicles unhindered access. 

 

Members of the community are being asked to monitor local TV and Radio stations and Police Social Media for updates in relation to the weather and if anyone has any concerns, in an emergency call 999 and appropriate resources will be deployed.

 

For up to date traffic conditions in the area visit  http://www.traffic-wales.com/

Earlier ...

In the latest update on the weather this morning (Wednesday), the Environment Agency says there are currently 16 severe flood warnings, 124 flood warnings and 229 flood alerts in place across the UK.

North Wales Police says on Twitter: “Met Office warnings in place today - please don't put yourselves or others at risk by going to weather affected areas to take photographs.”

And the force’s control room tweeted: “Very high winds have been forecast for North Wales today. High-sided vehicles to take particular care on our roads.”

In other weather-related tweets this morning, Chirk Castle says: “Chirk Castle will be closed today Wednesday 12 February due to adverse weather.”

And IT Wales says: "Virgin trains to halt north Wales services this afternoon."

Later ...

Wrexham.com has just tweeted (5.27pm) that it has had reports that the Wrexham's Racecourse Ground has been damaged in the storm with debris on Mold Rd.

Tweeted around 8pm: North Wales Police ‏@NWPolice 38m

The A483 #Chirk viaduct is currently closed due to the weather conditions until further notice.

Tweeted around 6pm: Llangollen Fire ‏@Llangollenfire 2h

Also a big tree down on the A539 just before the speed camera in the south bound lane.

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AM raises issue of fuel poverty

North Wales Assembly Member Mark Isherwood welcomed new fuel poverty initiatives in Flintshire and Denbighshire when speaking in the Assembly chamber and said it is crucial that people are made aware of the help they, and other fuel poverty schemes, provide.   

 

Mr Isherwood, who is Chair of the Assembly Cross Party Group on Fuel Poverty, referred to Flintshire’s  Affordable Warmth Scheme and Denbighshire’s Fuel Poverty Action Plan when questioning the Minister for Natural Resources and Food on Welsh Government Action to tackle Fuel Poverty.

 

Mr Isherwood said: “Although schemes such as Flintshire’s Affordable Warmth Scheme and Denbighshire’s Fuel Poverty Action Plan are welcomed - and both are newly launched - we heard at this lunch time’s meeting of the Cross-Party Group on Older People and Ageing, that older people are still often unaware of the help available and lack support in key areas, where Arbed and Nest will only ever reach 1% to 2% of fuel poor households in Wales annually.

 

“How, therefore, do you respond to the calls that were made at that meeting today for the restoration of the Fuel Poverty Ministerial Advisory Group in Wales, alongside those elsewhere in the UK, and for the Welsh Government to raise its fuel poverty game beyond Arbed and Nest, welcome though they are?”

 

In his reply the Minister agreed with Mr Isherwood that it is crucial to ensure that “people who can benefit from fuel poverty schemes are able to do so, and have the knowledge of the schemes and information about those schemes to enable them to take full advantage of their access to those programmes.”

Councillors vote to close Plas Madoc

BREAKING NEWS ...

Reporter Steve Bagnall from the Daily Post, who is covering the meeting where it has been discussed,  has just tweeted that Wrexham councillors have voted to close Plas Madoc Leisure Centre.

See the full storey at: http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plas-madoc-councillors-vote-close-6697071

Five-car smash on A483

Breaking news ...

5.15pm: Wrexham.com minutes ago re-tweeted information that there has been a five-car smash on the southbound A483 (Wrexham Bypass) between the B&Q and Coedpoeth junctions.

Decision time for Plas Madoc this afternoon

Campaigner Mabon ap Gwynfor reports on Twitter that there are about 200 people outside the Guildhall in Wrexham as, inside, members of the executive board are due to take the final decision this afternoon on whether to close Plas Madoc leisure centre and Waterworld leisure centre in Wrexham. 

He has also posted the picture below.

Denbighshire consults on flood risk strategy

Under the Flood and Water Management Act, Denbighshire County Council as the Lead Local Flood Authority has developed a strategy to show how it will provide a coordinated, resourced and comprehensive approach to managing flood risk in the future.

Cabinet Lead Member for Environment, Councillor David Smith, said: "Unfortunately, we in Denbighshire have experienced unprecedented weather events that have led to significant flooding in communities across the County in the last 18 months.

"I have seen first hand the devastation this has caused to many households and that is why it is important that we take advantage of the opportunity to assess where flooding is possible and have a strategy in place to manage those risks as much as possible so I would urge people to get involved and have their say."

The draft strategy and supporting documents can be found on www.denbighshire.gov.uk/consultations and hard copies of the Strategy are available at libraries in Rhyl, Rhuddlan, Prestatyn, St Asaph, Corwen and Llangollen. Copies can also be viewed at the Council's offices at Caledfryn in Denbigh and County Hall in Ruthin.

The consultation runs until 4th April.

Council proceedings going live online

Denbighshire County Council is going all technological to encourage people to get involved in local democracy – by streaming a number of its full council and planning committee meetings live on the web.

The former Minister for Communications and Local Government wrote to all authorities indicating that the Welsh Government was making £1.2 million available by way of grants to  to assist them in, amongst other things, implementing the webcasting of council meetings with the aim of strengthening and modernising local democratic arrangements. 

The webcasting of meetings involves the live streaming of sound and images of proceedings.

The webcast can also be made available on the council’s website as archived material. This means that members of the public who are not able to attend meetings may either view them live online or at a later time or date via the online archive.
The council intends to webcast approximately 60 hours a year of meetings held in the council chamber in County Hall using fixed camera and delegate technology.

Councillor Barbara Smith, Cabinet Lead Member for Modernisation, said: “We are delighted to offer this new service, as webcasting will enable the public to view the meetings without leaving their homes, via mobile and social media.

“It’s a great way of engaging the public in local democracy and in the work of the council. Councillors have already received a demonstration on how webcasting works and they have supported the proposal.  We are now encouraging the public to get interactive and watch our council meetings at their convenience."

A date for the first webcast meeting is yet to be chosen but could be as early as next month.

Bank's safes are taken away

It was definitely the end for the HSBC Bank in Bridge Street when a large lorry parked up outside by this afternoon to take away the two huge safes which must have been sitting inside every since the branch opened.

The safes were lifted on to the back of the flatbed wagon with the aid of a crane.

Workmen could also be seen inside the building apparently stripping away other fittings.

Youth centre project shortlisted for top award

Denbighshire Youth Service are celebrating after being shortlisted for four major honours at this year's Welsh Government Excellence Awards.

Llangollen Youth Centre Education Project has been shortlisted in the Outstanding Contribution to Supporting Young People into Education, Employment and Training category.

Abigail Davies from Ruthin Youth Club has been shortlisted for Outstanding Volunteer

Nick Hargraves has been nominated in the Your Choice Category for his work with Ruthin Youth Club's Duke of Edinburgh programme. Nominated and voted for by young people.

Abigail Zurowski has been shortlisted in the Outstanding Part Time Youth Worker Award.

The awards will take place in Cardiff on February 20.

Jamie Groves, Denbighshire's Head of Communication, Marketing and Leisure, said: "This is a tremendous achievement. To be shortlisted for national honours in youth work is a testament to all the hard work going on in our Youth Service to provide the best possible provision across the county.

"We have developed a service that provides sector leading practice and I am proud of the whole team for their commitment, enthusiasm and dedication.

"This is not the first time for Denbighshire Youth Service to be recognised at the Awards. We have won national awards from the Welsh Government for the past three years and this is the fourth time for Denbighshire to be shortlisted in categories. We are proud of the fact that we have gained a national reputation for excellence".

Roger Ellerton, Lead Officer: Libraries, Arts and Young people, said: "The competition for these awards is really tough and shows the tremendous of good work going on across Wales to develop services for our young people.  

"In Denbighshire, we aim to be innovative and creative in our approach to working with young people and have a motivated team of talented individuals working tirelessly to improve the offer.  

"Our youth workers are great ambassadors for the Council and for youth work generally and I wish them every success at the awards".

Councillors urged to "do the right thing" over Plas Madoc

Council leaders meeting on Tuesday to decide the fate of Plas Madoc Leisure Centre have been urged to "do the right thing" by campaigners.

 

In an open letter to Wrexham Council's executive board, the Save Plas Madoc Leisure Centre campaign said: "The level of opposition to this plan to close Plas Madoc within two months is unprecedented. Thousands have signed petitions, registered their objections and joined our mass protests. In a few short weeks, despite attempts by the council to rush this decision through, we have mobilised a mass movement to oppose this plan.

 

 "The council's executive board meets on Tuesday (11th Feb) and has a simple choice. Officers and consultants are recommending that councillors ignore the views of the people and close Plas Madoc to save £96,000 a year - a drop in the ocean for an organisation with a £200m+ budget.

 

 "We urge the 10 councillors to do the right thing and side with the people's opinion to save a well-used leisure centre for future generations.

 

 "We know there are some councillors who are willing to challenge the consultants' recommendation to close. We are delighted that they have stood with us and hope that others will come over to our side and show some courage.

 

 "We will be monitoring the vote closely at the executive board on Tuesday and hope that everyone in the borough is aware of how their representatives are voting on Plas Madoc. This is an issue that has united the people of Wrexham like no other recently - we will not allow councillors to ignore the people's voice on this.

 

“All we are asking for is a bit of chwarae teg – fair play for the communities surrounding Plas Madoc.”

 

The campaign is organising another lively protest at 1pm on Tuesday outside the Guildhall before the meeting of the Executive Board. Everyone is welcome to attend with banners, whistles, placards and pots and pans to make a noise.

First snow of winter falls on town

Llangollen is waking up to see the first significant snow to fall on the town this winter.

The white stuff is being forecast at higher and even lower levels in north east Wales today, although the rain and wind is due to return later I the week.

Railway snappers visit Llan

 

 

A dedicated group of members from the East Midlands Railway Photographic Society were in town on Saturday night for a charter shoot at Llangollen Railway.

One of them, Tez Pickthall, has kindly given permission for llanblogger to use a couple of his pictures.

He says: “Here’s a selection of my shots from a very wet charter last night, including a couple to show the awe-inspiring power of the Dee - dwarfing engine D5310 in the corner of the shot showing the bridge.

“The charter raised £500 to be shared between the Railway and Diesel Group, so we saw good attendance despite the terrible weather, with most participants travelling from the East Midlands to attend - there are some dedicated enthusiasts out there!”

AM calls for more cold calling protection

North Wales Assembly Member, Mark Isherwood has called for Welsh Government action to ensure more older people in Wales are protected from scams and doorstep crime.

Speaking in Darren Millar AM’s Short Assembly Debate ‘Older People, Scams and Doorstep Crime’, Mr Isherwood highlighted the inconsistent provision and enforcement of no-cold-calling zones across Wales and urged the Welsh Government to address the matter.

 

Mr Isherwood, who in December raised the problem with the First Minister, referre d to Age Cymru’s ‘Scams and Swindles’ campaign which is calling for Welsh Government intervention to tackle the postcode lottery and consequently provide more older people in Wales with protection from criminals who ruthlessly steal from them through scams and swindles.

 

Speaking in the Chamber this week, Mr Isherwood said: “Gwynedd’s zero no-cold-calling zones, although it has one pilot scheme, contrasts with the situation in Monmouthshire, which has zones covering 8,000 houses—21% of the total. In Denbighshire, 12.3% of homes are covered. In Wrexham,  it is 2.41%, and in Flintshire, it is 1.04%. So, there is a huge range of need.

 

“When I recently raised this with the First Minister in the Chamber, I referred to Age Cymru’s call for no-cold-calling zones and for the Welsh Government to intervene to tackle the inconsistent provision and enforcement of these zones across Wales to protect older people. He replied that his programme for government sets out plans to extend no-cold-calling zones.

 

"However, programmes and plans are no substitute for action. If done properly, no-cold-calling zones are cheaper than painting yellow lines on the road and far cheaper than dealing with the consequences of scams and swindles. Therefore, let us tackle the postcode lottery and, perhaps, consider an opt-out scheme across Wales.”

Young 'Uns' Oliver! leaves you wanting more

* The splendid cast of Oliver! line up.

Just like the hungry little lad in the title, Llangollen Operatic Society Young ‘Uns’ production of the evergreen musical Oliver! at the Town Hall leaves the audience begging for more.

Although there are lavish helpings of top-class entertainment from start to finish, it’s hard to get enough of the mouth-watering characterisations and delicious singing from a talented cast of more than 40 youngsters.

So good is it that at times it’s difficult to believe that you’re watching kids not seasoned adults tackling the Lionel Bart masterpiece based on the Dickens’ classic Oliver Twist.

But with the notable exception of Chris Simms who is on loan from the “grown up” operatic society to lay on a marvellously mischievous Fagin, the rest of the actors are five to 18 year olds.

The acting and singing talent just keeps being served up in course after tasty course.

Connor Phillips pads up to neatly portray the overweight and painfully pompous workhouse boss Mr Bumble, ably assisted in the comedy routines by Holly Broadbent as his shrewish assistant Widow Corney.

It’s Bumble who balls out little Oliver for daring to ask for another ladleful of gruel and didn’t the cute, curly-haired Rhys Penge as our orphaned hero receive the bad news with the perfect balance of pathos and indignation?

In fact, young Rhys goes on to shine throughout in his centrepiece role, never missing a line or a lyric and bringing a tear to many an eye as he sings the plaintive Where is Love?

At the grim funeral parlour where he flees to escape the nightmare of the workhouse, Oliver encounters the appalling Sowerberry family, headed by Will Edwards as the oily undertaker and with Megan Howlett as his overbearing wife.

Both are highly proficient in the respective parts as is Zoe Nicholas as their dopey daughter Charlotte. The two girls’ reactions as a feisty Oliver fights to get out of the coffin in which they’ve placed him and are sitting atop to keep him there for everyone’s safety is something to behold.

Another vile character Oliver meets at the undertakers is apprentice Noah Claypole and, although he doesn’t have too big a slice of the action, the part is very convincingly played by Cassius Hackforth.

Poor Oliver’s fortunes hardly improve when he hot-foots it to London after leaving the awful company of the Sowerberrys because it’s there he falls in with the worst of bad company, Fagin who heads a band of junior thieves, and arch-criminal Bill Sykes. The only saving grace is Bill’s long suffering girl and Fagin graduate Nancy.

Operatic stalwart Chris Simms gives Fagin just the right balance of villainy and humour and delights with his interpretation of Reviewing the Situation.

Sykes doesn’t work unless he’s portrayed as a thoroughly evil psychopath, and Wilf Wort does not disappoints in the part. Again, he’s only in his teens but he can certainly act and manages to send a shiver down the spine with the way he batters and eventually murders the faithful Nancy. At one point in the action he even spits at her for real, hopefully missing the excellent Joanna Stallard.

Joanna has a singular talent all of her own. Acting, singing and even dancing are clearly second nature to her and, as Nancy, she is quite simply superb.

Her powerful and deeply moving rendition of As Long As Needs Me was a show-stopper in the truest sense. She also leads the exuberant action in the drinking song Oom-Pah-Pah which is performed with such gusto by the entire cast that some of the audience would love to have got up on stage and joined in too.

Also well up there with the stars of the show is Charlie Hackforth as the Artful Dodger. He simply radiates confidence as Fagin’s cheeky chappy apprentice and reaches out over the footlights in way which belies his years.

All the supporting roles are very competently filled and when the whole cast team up for the chorus numbers it’s a colourful and melodic spectacle to remember.

Providing the backing for all this is a live four-piece orchestra skilfully led by musical director Elen Mair Roberts who also provides a mean violin solo to accompany Fagin in Reviewing the Situation.

This Oliver! – the Young ‘Uns’ 25^th annual show - is a fine tribute to new artistic director Christine Dukes. She had the same role with famous Youth Theatre at the Stiwt in Rhos for 14 years, and this wealth of skills and experience shines out.            

Oliver! opened on Thursday night and still has two performances to go today – a matinee at 2.30pm and the evening show at 7.30pm. Catch one of them if you can!

Tickets are available door or, if you’re lucky, from Llangollen Tourist Information Centre (01978  860828), Jades Hair and Beauty, Gwyn Davies, Butcher, or Stella Bond (01978  860441). Tickets cost £8 for adults and £5 for concessions.

"We need help to take over Plas Madoc"

 

* The recent Plas Madoc protest.

 

Calls have been made for Wrexham Council to fund Plas Madoc Leisure Centre for five years while a community enterprise is set up to run the centre – otherwise it will be gone in 60 days, it is claimed.

 

Mabon ap Gwynfor, a regular user of the centre and speaking on behalf of Plaid Cymru in Clwyd South, said: “The proposal to set up a community enterprise to run Plas Madoc is an interesting one that needs further exploration. Anyone who attended the two demos at Plas Madoc and outside the Guildhall, as I have, will know the strength of feeling.

“But, as someone who was involved in setting up a community venture from scratch, I know from experience how much time it takes. Before the community and staff can make any meaningful decision on this, we need to have a full structural survey, a comprehensive repairs and maintenance schedule, details of employment rights and responsibilities and a fully costed business plan.

“There’s also the little matter of finding a way to bridge the current £500,000 annual deficit. Yes, there may be grants available but grants are dependent on business plans. They will not be available in 60 days.

 

“I note that the council leader says that Wrexham Council doesn’t have the capability to run the centre. With that in mind, I have to ask him how he thinks a community enterprise with no additional income stream would do so. I’m concerned that the council is setting the community to fail and would rather have guarantees that it will continue to fund the centre.

 

“If it won’t do that and the council genuinely wants Plas Madoc to stay open and succeed, it has to provide a parachute to enable the community to make this scheme work.

 

“When the council was withdrawing funding from The Venture and Caia Park Partnership, it did so over a number of years with a gradual taper. Why isn’t this being proposed for Plas Madoc? Why is Plas Madoc only being offered 60 days’ notice?”

 

Llyr Gruffydd, Plaid Cymru’s North Wales AM, said: “Like the rest of the local community, I want to see Plas Madoc stay open and with a clear funding structure to help it stay open. The strength of feeling from campaigners suggests there is the appetite for a community-run centre but that would clearly take some time to set up.

 

“The council must now show some support for the community, which feels badly let down by this hurried and frankly chaotic consultation. It makes sense to provide the guarantee of tapered funding while a community enterprise is established to run Plas Madoc. If they won’t provide that sort of funding, then it’s clear that talk of giving it to the community is just a bluff.”

Twenty Club wants you ... to see its new play

* The famous Kitchener recruiting poster which prompted

many men to volunteer for service in World War One.

Rehearsals are now well advanced for the Twenty Club’s forthcoming production of Peter Whelan's classic play The Accrington Pals.

The Llangollen-based group is staging the moving First World War drama from March 6-8 in Llangollen Town Hall to mark the 100^th anniversary of the start of the conflict in 1914. 

The Accrington Pals is based on the true story of how the smallest town in England raised a volunteer force to fight in the war, contrasting life at the front and in the 1916 Battle of the Somme with the women left behind.

For more details visit facebook.com/twentyclub.

Next moves for Cittaslow Llangollen

* The Mayor, Cllr Bob Lube, accepts official Cittaslow status last summer.

Town councillor Phil Thane outlines the next moves in the development of Cittaslow Llangollen:

Last year the working group set up by the Town Council to win Cittaslow status for Llangollen was successful in its aim, and more recently Cittaslow Llangollen was awarded £500 from Denbighshire County Council under the Participatory Budgeting scheme.

Now they need to make Cittaslow useful for the whole town.

Cittaslow status is awarded to the whole town, so even townsfolk who've never heard of it stand to benefit, and anyone who lives or works in town should be able to influence how Cittaslow Llangollen develops.

To make this a reality most of the old working group met with the Town Clerk on Tuesday 14th Jan to discuss how to proceed.

Communications between Cittaslow Llangollen and the wider Cittaslow organisation in the UK and worldwide will be through the Town Clerk, and the membership fee is paid by the council, so clearly they have an interest.

However, it is important that the whole town can have a say so it was decided to form a new community group, 'Cittaslow Llangollen', with an executive committee of 12 members. These will be: Four officers: Chair, vice-chair, treasurer and secretary; two councillors seconded by the council;
six others to represent and organise work on the six Cittaslow goals.

This plan was approved by the council meeting (Jan 21st) and it is hoped that we can organise the first election for Cittaslow Llangollen at the annual Town Meeting on Thursday, March 27 at 7pm in the Town Hall.

Following the election and selection of members, the group will meet to elect its officers and allocate the other roles. A constitution for the new group is being prepared by the original team and the town clerk for the next Cittaslow meeting (12th Feb), but of course once properly set up the new Cittaslow Llangollen group may wish to modify it.

* Format this year for the Annual Town Meeting this year will be that after the Town Mayor’s Report there will be the opportunity to ask questions and raise any issues of concern.

However in order to ensure full answers can be given it would be useful to have questions submitted in advance so that there will be sufficient time to obtain any information required.

Anyone wishing to ask a question or raise any issue should contact the Town Clerk, on 01978 861345 or email llangollentc@btconnect.com   

Chamber discusses town map issue

At their meeting in the Hand Hotel on Monday evening members of Llangollen Chamber of Trade and Tourism discussed the issue of a new town map.

At one of its meetings late last year the chamber expressed its interest in a street map – modelled on the one handed out at last autumn’s Llangollen Food Festival – featuring adverts from local businesses around the edges.

Chairman David Davies said that this had been looked into and a private company had said it could produce one similar for the chamber based on 50 advertisers being charged £50 each for inclusion on the map.

However, he pointed out that Denbighshire County Council featured a Llangollen town map on its website which local businesses might be able to download for free to hand out to customers.

He said that the chamber had also been given a few hundred copies of last year’s food festival map which were available to members.    

Chamber secretary Ian Parry said the county’s countryside services team had produced a local map for Corwen, adding: “If that seems to go down well there they would probably also do one for Llangollen.”

Member Simon Collinge said he would still like to see the chamber having its own map and Mr Davies replied: “That’s maybe something we could do as a joint project.”

Call goes out to support next Plas Madoc demo

The campaign fighting Wrexham Council's plan to close Plas Madoc Leisure Centre has expressed its disappointment at the announcement that the centre will close within 60 days unless the community take it on.

Alison Roberts, speaking on behalf of the Save Plas Madoc Leisure Centre campaign, said: "This proposal only came to light in November. It went out to consultation in December and January and now they're talking of closing it in March. This is based on a flawed consultants' report that has underestimated usage, overestimated maintenance and repair costs and only has a superficial understanding of the importance of this facility for the wellbeing of the entire south of the county and beyond.

"We have attempted, as a campaign, to engage with the council by requesting meetings but been rejected. We have tried to get an independent surveyor into Plas Madoc to assess the true costs of the centre - again that has not been forthcoming.

"The idea of the community running the centre would have more merit if the council had involved the community in this consultation. Instead it has disregarded the community's views completely and appears willing to ride roughshod over our wishes. 

"Let's be clear. We do not believe that the council is serious is wanting the community to successfully run Plas Madoc - the timescale makes it all but impossible to organise an orderly and effective transfer. There are huge issues to discuss in terms of organising financing, employment rights, a business plan and other major matters that would take many months to organise for a large company let alone a community that would need to set up a social enterprise from scratch.

"The community has made it clear that what it favours is for the council to find the £96,000 annual savings it expects to see from closing Plas Madoc from another source. That could be from reserves, it could be by cutting non-frontline services or it could be through community councils stepping up to the plate. This is what's happened with other council services, such as libraries, community centres and lollipop ladies. All these were offered to community councils - why didn't they offer Plas Madoc to local community councils to bridge the gap?

"Cllr David Griffiths described leisure as a discretionary service but it has huge uncosted benefits for the community in terms of health and well-being. We could name some other council costs that are also discretionary that this council is not cutting - why? It appears we have council leaders who know the price of everything but the value of nothing."

Ms Roberts added: "The council leaders and officers' attitude throughout has been to railroad this closure plan through with the minimum of time to assess the options. The legacy of such a blinkered approach, if we allow them to succeed, will be hugely damaging for the surrounding area. 

"We do not accept that Plas Madoc has to close. We believe there are plenty of good people who want to see Plas Madoc survive and thrive. We believe that many councillors across the political spectrum feel the same way. It is now time for those councillors to have their say and ensure that the Executive Board on Tuesday votes down this proposal.

 

"With that in mind, we're urging everyone who wants Plas Madoc to survive to get down to the Guildhall for 1pm on Tuesday, 11th February, to make sure this proposal doesn't go through. We will be entitled to watch the Executive Board make their decision and will be carefully monitoring who votes for and against."

Llan police and college team up for success

A partnership scheme set up between an Oswestry college and the Llangollen policing team is providing learning opportunities for all involved. 

 

For the past 12 months, Llangollen based officers have been helping to provide students at Derwen College with a greater understanding of the role and the work of the police.

 

The college is a specialist residential college for young people aged between 16 and 25 year olds who have a wide range of learning difficulties and other disabilities.  Its aim is to nurture, develop and challenge the students to equip them with the skills they need for employment and to live as independently as possible.

 

While the students have been visiting police and learning more about their day to day work in the community and responsibilities,  the officers have also been gaining a greater understanding of issues facing young people with learning disabilities and difficulties.

 

Recently, four officers including District Inspector Siobhan Edwards and Sergeant Paul Hughes made a reciprocal visit to the college where they met up with the students – some of whom have Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Downs Syndrome - and their tutors where they had a further insight into the work on-going at the college.

 

“The partnership has broadened our knowledge immensely,” said Sgt Paul Hughes. “Many months ago, I was approached by Sarah Laszlo who is a teacher and Lead Learner Voice Co-ordinator at the college and organised for a number of groups of students to visit us and learn about policing – and it all stemmed from there.”

 

Many student visits have taken place. A number of presentations have been delivered by Sarah to staff in Llangollen. This in itself has given officers a valuable insight into the difficulties that people with learning disabilities may experience, especially when dealing with police.

 

Sgt Hughes added: “Through these presentations, we’ve been able to put ourselves in the position of the young adults, and try to see things from their perspective. This has allowed us to fully appreciate the difficulties they may face when communication is often difficult for them. In addition, we have also learnt more around how to recognise certain disabilities and the characteristics that may be displayed.”

 

He added: “We are committed to encouraging college students to approach the police should they find themselves in difficulty whilst living independently in the community.  It is vital that the message given to the students is that the police are not only there to deal with criminals, but are there to support and assist people who need our help in the community. I am delighted that this partnership has evolved.”

 

Speaking on behalf of the college, Sarah Laszlo said: “We are delighted here at Derwen that the reciprocal partnership between the College and the officers based in Llangollen has been, and continues to be so successful.  The opportunity to carry out mutually beneficial awareness building exercises has been invaluable and has gone a long way towards addressing any perceived barriers between the two groups.  Students at Derwen now have a far greater understanding of the police force's role in the community and officers can feel more confident when it comes to dealing with young people with learning difficulties and disabilities.  We look forward to further collaboration in 2014.”

No entertainment planned yet for St David's Day

Llangollen seems to have has nothing planned in the way of public entertainment for St David’s Day next month.

This was revealed at the latest meeting of the town’s chamber of trade and tourism held at the Hand Hotel on Monday evening.

A representative of Llangollen Tourist Information Centre told members that, as far as she knew, nothing was yet planned to entertain visitors on Saturday, March 1, with neither the Silver Band nor a school choir scheduled to make an appearance.

However, she said she was still awaiting information from “a few” other organisations on whether they had anything organised for the day.

Chamber chairman David Davies said: “I think this is an opportunity we shouldn’t miss to provide some kind of entertainment so that people stay around and spend money in the town.”

Looking ahead to other events, Mr Davies said a major bluegrass music festival would be coming to Llangollen for the first time this summer, which presented a good business opportunity and would hopefully become an annual local event.

* The Coastline Bluegrass Music Event is due to be held at Llangollen Pavilion from June 6-8.

The line-up features The Sons of Navarone (Belgium), The Bluegrass Playboys (Norway),  The New Essex Bluegrass Band and The Feet First Appalachian Clog Dancers.

 

There will also be concerts, Appalachian dance, workshops, open mic and Young Bluegrassers.

Weekend tickets are from £40.

For more information, see: http://hairyphotographer.co.uk/ai1ec_event/coastline-bluegrass-festival/?instance_id=

Check out food ratings before that Valentine's meal

After flowers or chocolates, the next big question that’s usually on the agenda for Valentine’s Day is whether to go out to that romantic restaurant or enjoy a quiet meal in.

Whatever your recipe for eating out or in this Valentine’s Day, make sure you choose one of the 735 eateries in Denbighshire with a rating of three or more, advises Denbighshire County Council.

The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme rates food businesses on their hygiene standards, based on inspections carried out by the council.

Businesses in the area are rated on a scale ranging from 0 which means ‘urgent improvement necessary’ to a top rating of 5 which is ‘very good’.        

So, whether you’re reserving a table at that romantic hotspot, the cosy little café, or planning on ordering a takeaway on your way home for a romantic meal, make sure to check the hygiene rating first.  Look out for the green and black food hygiene rating stickers displayed on windows and doors.

If you can’t see a sticker, then ask staff in or check online at www.food.gov.uk/ratings

Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Lead Member with responsiblility for Food Safety, said: “Valentine’s Day is a busy time for our local restaurants, cafes and pubs and with the majority of food businesses in the Denbighshire area rated 3 or above. The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme makes it easier for everyone to choose to eat their romantic meals in places where food hygiene is taken seriously."

Geoff Ogle, Director of the Food Standards Agency in Wales, said:  “The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme is a great tool when choosing where to eat out, particularly when celebrating a special meal, because it tells you what’s going in the kitchen and behind the scenes. For local eateries, a good rating will be good for business during this busy time.”

This Valentine’s Day, make sure you order the flowers, buy the chocolates and check out the food hygiene rating of your favourite places to eat or order from, at www.food.gov.uk/ratings

Season gets under way at Llan Railway

* The steam train arrives at Berwyn on its return from Carrog.

 

The season at Llangollen began on Saturday with a heritage railcar service with steam train on Sunday.

 

The weekend option continues for weekend through to half term week then through March beginning daily services from Monday 24 March.

For the off-peak steam service on Sunday the tank engine Jessie (also known as Thomas when dressed up) was operating to provide the most economical motive power.

 

The Llangollen Railway timetable for this year is altered to reflect the eventual operation of trains through to Corwen when the track extension is opened - date to be announced.

This means that departure times from Llangollen are no longer on the hour.

For Timetable A, the off peak service, trains now depart Llangollen at:

 

10.50 - returns for 12.30

13.00 - returns for 14.40

15.10 returns for 16.50.

 

Visitors should be sure to check the timetable to allow for the revised times which also apply for the Timetable B & C peak days options.

 

Another full season of events is planned and in summary are:

Days Out With Thomas 22/23 February, 31 May/1  June, 2/3 plus 7-10 August and 25/26 October

10/11 May there is a Teddy Bears' Picnic weekend

4-6 April is the Spring Steam gala with two visiting engines and an intensive tim etable of trains marking a Croes Newydd (Wrexham) Special event

21/22 June will be the weekend for the Heritage Railcar gala and 5/6 October will see a celebration of Railcar 60 to mark the anniversary of the introduction of the diesel railcars by British Railways.

22 March and 27 September are both diesel days when the home fleet operates train services

5/6 July is the Classic Transport we ekend with visiting omnibuses and a classic vehicle display at Glyndyfrdwy

29-31 August is the late Summer gala when an intensive train service will operate.

24 May & 13 September a Steam & Jazz train will operate in the evening with visiting bands  

20 July The Llangollen Fringe Festival presents a Blues Steam train in the evening

12 July and 18 October, plus a festive 13 December, Real Ale trains will operate in the evenings

7 June , 16 August and 1 November will have Murder Mystery trains in the evenings

31 October Fright Night on the Ghost train to mark Halloween 

2 November Ride the Rocket Firework train to Glyndyfrdwy brings the season to a close pending the festive season of Sa nta Specials and Mince Pie trains in December.

Full details on the Llangollen Railway website at: www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

Town set to say farewell to HSBC branch

* Chamber chairman David Davies, with placard, leads the "save our bank" demo

outside HSBC last year. 

Llangollen Chamber of Trade and Tourism will send a simple note of thanks to staff at the HSBC bank in Llangollen before it closes this Friday.

The chamber discussed the controversial closure at its meeting in the Hand Hotel on Monday evening and Simon Collinge suggested it would be nice to send flowers and a card to staff as a mark of thanks for the service they had provided to customers over a number of years.

However, members eventually decided just to send the thank you note.

Chamber chairman David Davies said the bank building in Bridge Street was now up for sale at £275,000 and Simon Collinge pointed out that it would finally close for business at 3pm this Friday.

Recalling that the chamber had led efforts to save the doomed branch, including holding a high-profile demonstration outside, Mr Davies said: “We’ve done what we can and I think we just have to draw a line under that one now.

“It was right to try and fight but now we have to send all our business to Barclays to make sure they are retained in the town.

“Luckily, their branch has 10 years on the lease so that might be in our favour.”

Loud protest over Plas Madoc closure plan

* A mass of demonstrators outside the Guildhall. Picture by courtesy of Marc Jones.

Around 160 protesters - many with whistles and using other noise-making devices - turned up outside the Guildhall in Wrexham this afternoon (Tuesday) to demonstrate against the proposed closure of Plas Madoc leisure centre.

Inside, councillors were taking part in a workshop session connected with the closure proposal ahead of a final decision being taken on the move by the council's executive board next Tuesday.

For the full story see: http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/protest-save-plas-madoc-leisure-6672319

Denbighshire declares war on fuel poverty

Denbighshire and partner organisations have pledged to tackle the growing issue of fuel poverty in the county.

Across Wales, fuel poverty affects around 26% of households who spend more than 10% of their income on fuel. It is estimated this affects around 10,600 in Denbighshire.
   

The council says that, with partners in Denbighshire Advice Network, it will be working together to do as much as is possible to reduce, halt or soften the impact of fuel poverty.

 

Denbighshire's fuel poverty action plan will deliver 18 actions involving a range or organisations and schemes such as the North Wales Energy Advice Centre, the Financial Inclusion Together Project, the Energy Saving Trust and NEST (the Welsh Government's Fuel Poverty Scheme).

 

Work will now begin on identifying areas where homes are likely to benefit from ECO energy efficiency measures, delivering energy advice, exploring the possibility of renewable heat incentives and subsidies from utility companies, working with Cadwyn Clwyd to address rural fuel poverty and consideration of establishing bulk purchasing projects for groups for all types of fuel.

 

Other actions will maximising people's income, resolve personal debts and securing the best fuel prices.

   

This fuel poverty action plan will link in to Denbighshire's Big Plan's outcomes to reduce poverty among disadvantaged families, young and older people, promote healthy lifestyles, create a sustainable economy and recognising the needs of rural communities.

   

Denbighshire's Cabinet Lead Member for Customers and Communities, Councillor Hugh Irving, said: "The success of this action plan will depend on all of our organisations working together effectively and innovatively at a time when resources and funding are becoming increasingly scarce.

"We will be evaluating our work and, most importantly, what difference it is making to the quality of life for our residents and will be reporting back to the Denbighshire Advice Network on a six monthly basis."

Plans for biomass plant in Chirk get the go-ahead

Plans for a biomass energy-producing plant at Kronospan's chipboard factory in Chirk have been given the go ahead by Wrexham councillors.

For the full story see the BBC website at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-east-wales-26014409

Last ditch call to save Plas Madoc leisure centre

Campaigners fighting plans to close Plas Madoc Leisure Centre have issued a last-ditch challenge to councillors, urging them to be "bravehearts not faint hearts".

Rachel Lewis, for the Save Plas Madoc Leisure Centre campaign, said: "Councillors will meet today (Tuesday, Feb 4th) to discuss the future of our leisure services. They know that more than 2200 people have responded to the consultation - an unprecedented figure in such a short period of time. They will also be aware of the mass protests and the thousands of people who have signed petitions calling for the centre to be saved.

"Our challenge to councillors is simple - question the basis for the officers' proposal to close Plas Madoc and Waterworld and replace it with one new smaller centre in Wrexham. Question the consultants about the accuracy of their report and whether the repair and maintenance costs are overstated. Question the council leaders about why their maintenance department has been carrying out a survey of Plas Madoc leisure centre in the past week. Question what plans the council has got for the sites at Waterworld and Plas Madoc - if there is a masterplan, why aren't people being told? Or will we end up with more derelict sites such as the Groves school and Grosvenor Road?

"We have challenged the consultants' report for its accuracy on user levels, maintenance costs and services such as disabled lifts. It seems the council is belatedly waking up to the fact that its consultants might not have got it right, despite receiving £51,000 for the job.

"Councillors will be making decisions in the coming week that will impact on this area for a generation. This is a time for bravehearts not faint hearts. We want councillors to speak out for their communities and to represent the people, not toe the party line. We will be outside to remind all our representatives that they have a responsibility towards us and our children. It will be the next generation that has to do without a leisure centre within a convenient distance."

Health board to drain hospital car park "lake"

* The flooded hospital car park.

Residents living close to the car park of the former Llangollen Community Hospital in Abbey Road have spoken of their concern that it is constantly flooded.

But Betsi Cadwaladr  University Health Board, which still owns the land, has said it is making arrangements to unblock a drain to solve the problem.

Neighbours say that for the past few years the car park has taken on the appearance of a small lake due to a number of blocked drainage grids.

This flooding took place long before the hospital was closed last year and has continued since, they claim.

A number of people living in the sheltered housing block adjacent to the car park say they would like to park on it, especially as it is now no longer needed for the hospital. However, they are unable to do this as it would mean them wading through inches-deep water to access their vehicles.

The neighbours also point out that having a large area of dirty, stagnant water so close to their homes is unsightly and unacceptable.

A Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board spokesperson said: “We are aware of the current flooding on the site and are making arrangements to unblock a drain in the centre of the car park to hopefully alleviate the problem.

“Following the closure of the Hospital the Health Board is in the process of agreeing terms of the sale of the land which is surplus to our use.

“In the meantime, whilst we understand that nearby residents may see the land as useful for parking we have to point out that anyone parking there is doing so at their own risk.”

Skates "hopeful" after Plas Madoc meeting

CLWYD South Assembly Member says he is hopeful over the future of Plas Madoc Leisure Centre after what he described as a ‘very constructive’ meeting with Wrexham council bosses.

Mr Skates, the Labour AM for Clwyd South, met lead member for leisure Cllr David Griffiths and council officers on Friday morning (January 31) to discuss options for keeping the centre – which has been earmarked for closure – open to the public.

He said: “Many of my constituents have made their feelings known about the council’s proposals for Plas Madoc. I am a regular user of the centre and I know many people in Clwyd South and further afield would be sad to see it close.

“Councils don’t take this type of major decision lightly, and authorities across Wales are being put under severe pressure because of the UK Government’s austerity measures. However, we had a very constructive meeting and I am happy to have been able to provide the council with a number of issues to investigate.

“I was very pleased by the commitment of Cllr Griffiths and the officers to hold an open dialogue with me on such an important matter, and I remain hopeful we can find an alternative and keep the facility open.”

County not part of Wales funding windfall

Eleven local councils across Wales have picked up their share of a £100 million funding package to finance regeneration projects – and Denbighshire is not amongst them.

Minister for Housing and Regeneration, Carl Sargeant, has just announced the cash windfall through the Welsh Government’s regeneration grant, Vibrant and Viable Places.

The total funding has been extended to £100 million over three years and so each of the 11 local authorities invited to submit detailed bids will receive funding of up to £15 million.

Successful local authorities are Bridgend, Conwy, Flintshire, Isle of Anglesey, Merthyr Tydfil, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea, Torfaen and Wrexham.

The funding will be used for various regeneration projects - helping to create jobs, tackle poverty, increase housing supply and improve community facilities.

According to the BBC, Wrexham will pick up £10.6 million while Flintshire will get £6 million and Conwy £12 million.

The Minister said: “Despite the cuts imposed on us by the UK Government, this substantial funding is further evidence of how the Welsh Government is committed to supporting the people of Wales.

“These worthy projects will make a real difference to their communities and I’m delighted with the quality of the bids received.

“Many of the successful bids focus on the regeneration of town centres, which is about a lot more than filling empty shops. It is about creating a diverse and vibrant town centre with other services such as leisure, health and education at its heart and making the town centre an attractive place to live.

“Increasing housing supply is my number one priority and these successful bids will build on and complement the excellent regeneration work in evidence across Wales through our Houses into Homes and Social Housing Grant schemes.”

Local Friends of the Earth announce 2014 programme

Llangollen Friends of the Earth has announced its new projects for 2014.

These include:

Skills sessions at the community garden



This year the garden will focus on running skills workshops.

Workshops may include; green woodworking, permaculture, herb growing and uses, and maybe even eco-building techniques.

Energy project



The group will look again at energy generation in Llangollen and the Dee Valley.

They will consider a variety of technologies, sites and company structures. Have an interest, any advice or experience in this area? Please come along!

Fracking campaigning



Group members will work with other groups in the area to campaign against Fracking.

* For further information about the group, contact Warren on 07525 016503.