Community Meeting Highlights Key Local Issues and Collaborative Spirit
Don't Miss Out! Your Town, Your Voice – Catch Up on Our Latest Community Meeting! Ever wonder what's really happening in our town? From tackling pesky fly-tipping and sprucing up our public spaces to big plans for regeneration and safer roads – our latest community meeting covered it all! Last night, residents, local police (a huge shout-out to PCSO Chris and Neil!), and I came together for a lively and productive discussion. We dug deep into issues like: The future of Bank Square – specialist cleaning, lighting, and more! Tackling eyesores – fly-tipping hotspots and empty properties. Safer streets – road markings, speed limits, and pavement parking. Green spaces – grass cutting and town planters. Key updates on the Briery Hill site and other local concerns. Your voice matters! See how your neighbours are shaping our community and what actions are being taken. Click here to read the full blog post and get all the details from the meeting!
11/27/20252 min read
Last night, our community came together for a productive meeting to discuss a range of important local issues affecting our area. It was fantastic to see such a strong turnout from residents and tenants, whose active participation truly made the evening a success. Your insights and concerns are invaluable in helping us identify and address the challenges facing our community.
A special thank you goes to Gwent Police PCSOs Chris and Neil for their attendance. Their presence was greatly appreciated, and they were instrumental in picking up on several key issues, particularly those related to fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour. Their commitment to working with us to improve safety and address local concerns is a testament to their dedication to our community.
During the meeting, we covered a wide array of topics, including:
Environmental and Cleanliness Concerns:
Specialist Cleaning for Bank Square: We discussed the need for specialist cleaning in Bank Square, particularly for the steps leading from Bethcar/Eureka back lane, and the funicular cabin and stations. We'll be investigating funding options and maintenance schedules.
Fly-Tipping Hotspots: Several fly-tipping incidents were reported, including areas near Hospice of the Valley in Bethcar/Eureka Back lane, 1 Saron Place, the former newsagents on Church Street, and Railway View. These have been logged for clearance and potential enforcement action.
Pathway Maintenance: The pathway between The Walk shopping area and the traffic crossing, with its metal handrail, requires sweeping and cleaning.
Dog Fouling: Persistent dog fouling on Drysiog Street was highlighted, and we'll be requesting increased warden patrols and appropriate action in this area.
Eureka Banking: Concerns were raised about the unkempt grass cutting on the south part of Eureka Banking and the need for a new rubbish bin and replacement of a broken dog bin in the area.
Regeneration and Highways Matters:
Open-Air Car Park: The possibility of an open-air car park next to the LAC was discussed as a potential regeneration initiative.
Empty Properties: The ongoing issues with empty properties at 44 Bethcar Street, 1 Zion Place, and 14 Pen-y-bryn were raised, with a focus on their impact and potential for future use.
Road Markings: The worn road markings at the Church Street zebra crossing and zig-zag lines require attention.
Speed Reminders: The need for additional speed reminders within the 20mph zone was emphasized to improve road safety.
Pavement Parking: Issues with parking on pavements in the town centre and Glyncoed (GO) were discussed, highlighting the obstruction caused to pedestrians.
Bank Square Lighting: Intermittent lighting in Bank Square was noted as a concern for safety and aesthetics.
Other Important Updates:
Former Briery Hill Site: We sought an update on the former Briery Hill site, including discussions around garages and the potential offer of units for residents.
Gin Shop Pipe: A protruding pipe from the ground at the Gin Shop was reported for inspection and remedial action.
Town Planters: The maintenance and future plans for the town planters were discussed, with a view to enhancing the town's appearance.
The collaborative spirit of the evening was truly encouraging. It's through these discussions and the commitment of our residents, local police, and council officers that we can work towards a better, cleaner, and safer community for everyone.
Our next community meeting will be held in late March. Please keep an eye out for further announcements regarding the exact date and venue. We look forward to seeing you there and continuing these vital conversations!
