news.wrexham.gov.uk

Author: Chris

  • Can you help? Members of the public needed for Governance and Audit Committee

    Can you help? Members of the public needed for Governance and Audit Committee

    Safety. Cyber security. Fraud. Finance. Resources. And a thousand other things.

    Like any large organisation, Wrexham Council faces a lot of pressures and risks – which we need to manage carefully.

    Because if something goes wrong, it can have a big impact on our services…and the people who use them.

    So we need to make sure we know what the main pressures and risks are, and that we’re doing enough to prevent or minimise their impact.

    Maybe this is where you could come in?

    Get news and info from your local council – sign-up for email bulletins.

    An unbiased mind

    We’re looking for four independent members of the public to be part of our Governance and Audit Committee.

    It meets several times a year, and helps ensure the council has good risk management, reporting and audit and governance processes.

    Members of the public who sit on the committee (called ‘lay members’) must be non-political, and are paid for their time.

    It might not sound very exciting at first glance, but it’s interesting work and very rewarding.

    The committee helps ensure the council is taking a sensible approach and doing things properly – which is very important for local people who rely on its services.

    The key thing is to have an unbiased mind and an independent attitude. You need to be able to weigh-up facts and evidence in a practical way, and be good at challenging things.

    If you think you might be a good fit, please get in touch.

    Find out more and apply…

  • If you receive Universal Credit, you might be able to slash your broadband bill

    If you receive Universal Credit, you might be able to slash your broadband bill

    Wrexham residents are being urged to check they’re getting the best deal for their broadband after reports that millions of households across the UK are missing out.

    National regulator Ofcom says up to 4.2 million households could halve their broadband bills by taking up special discounted packages available to customers who receive Universal Credit.

    These packages – sometimes known as ‘social tariffs’ – could help many families make vital savings at a time when many people are feeling the pinch.

    However, only 55,000 homes in the UK have taken advantage of the discounted rates so far – just 1.2% of those eligible.

    Get news and info from your local council – sign-up for email bulletins.

    Every penny counts

    There are six broadband providers – BT, Community Fibre, G.Network, Hyperoptic, KCOM and Virgin Media O2 – that offer these specially discounted deals at the moment, priced at £10-£20 a month for broadband speeds ranging from 10Mbit/s to 67Mbit/s.

    Ofcom is calling on providers to do more to promote these deals to customers, and wants more companies to offer social tariffs.

    Councillor David Kelly, Wrexham Council’s lead member with responsibility for digital inclusion, says: “With the cost of living rising, it’s important that families get the best deals on their broadband.

    “The discounted social tariffs that some suppliers offer can really help families reduce their monthly bills, so if you receive Universal Credit it’s definitely worth looking into.

    “Contact your supplier and see what they can offer. Broadband is something we all rely on for so many things these days, and every penny counts.”

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  • “We support Ukraine’s right to live in peace and freedom” – Wrexham sends message of support

    “We support Ukraine’s right to live in peace and freedom” – Wrexham sends message of support

    Update 11.3.22

    Understandably many people in Wrexham will be keen to do all they can to offer support to displaced Ukrainian people in their time of need.

    The generosity that has already been shown is amazing.

    The Welsh Government’s guidance page – Ukraine: support for people affected – describes ways to help and also provides important information on available help and support for those impacted by the situation in Ukraine.

    ❤

    Wrexham Council has sent a message of support to Ukraine, as the free world continues to urge Russian President Vladimir Putin to call off his invasion.

    The Kremlin’s attack has been underway since Thursday, and has already caused tremendous suffering and upheaval in the region.

    The council plans to fly the Ukrainian flag from the Guildhall, and will light up the building in Ukrainian colours as a show of solidarity.

    Praying for peace

    Councillor Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, says:

    “We fully support and stand in solidarity with Ukraine during this difficult and dark time.

    “The courage and determination of the Ukrainian people has been incredible, and we all hope and pray that the Russian government will realise its actions are wrong.

    “We would also like to express our support for Russians who have spoken out against Putin and who want to live in peace with their Ukrainian neighbours.

    “It takes real courage to speak out against the government in Russia, and we shouldn’t forget that many Russian people do not want this war and will be suffering as well.

    “We are praying for Ukraine, and we are praying that peace and humanity will prevail.”

    Thoughts and prayers

    Councillor David A Bithell, Deputy Leader of the Council, says:

    “We just want the Ukrainian people to know that we’re with them – that we support their right to live their lives in peace and freedom.

    “What the Russian government has done is wrong. Lives have been ruined, families torn apart and futures taken away in the blink of an eye.

    “The events we’re seeing unfold are terrible, and our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who is suffering.

    “Wrexham might only be a small county borough in North Wales, but like the rest of Wales and the UK, we stand in solidarity with Ukraine.”

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  • Storm Franklin – latest info from Wrexham Council

    Storm Franklin – latest info from Wrexham Council

    Strong winds from Storm Franklin – the third significant storm to hit the UK in less than a week – are making their presence felt in Wrexham.

    It’s understood that the storm will be with us all morning, with gusts of 50-55mph in North Wales, before abating.

    The rest of the week is forecast to be blustery with gusts every day, but less severe.

    • Up to now, the council has had reports of 16 trees falling across the county borough. Our Environment teams are in attendance.
    • We’re also aware that the winds have caused some damage to buildings (e.g. to property in Miners Road in Llay, and Abbot Street in Wrexham town centre).
    • There is some localised flooding, including some patches near Bangor-on-Dee with the A525/Straight Mile closed, and in Rosemary Lane in Rossett. The River Dee is being monitored.
    • We understand no heavy rain is forecast today, but some is forecast for tomorrow.
    • We anticipate that waste collections scheduled for today will be carried out, so if your bins and recycling containers are due to be emptied, please put them out as normal.

    Follow the Met Office and Natural Resources Wales on Twitter.

    Councillor David A Bithell, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, says:

    “We’re monitoring the situation closely and our response teams are in place and helping to deal with issues in the county borough.

    “We’re advising people to take care, and in particular want to remind people to avoid walking in parks and open spaces where there are large trees close by.”

    Message to drivers

    We’re also asking drivers not to ignore any road closure signs they see.

    It’s important to follow diversions and not drive through road closures, as they’re there to keep people safe.

    Reminder – how to report issues

    While we’re hoping Wrexham avoids the worst of the weather, you can report any issues (e.g. storm damage, fallen trees etc) to the council on the following numbers:

    • Office hours (8.30am-5pm) 01978 298989
    • Out of hours 01978 292055
    • Housing repairs for council tenants (24hrs) 01978 298993

    Any issues with power-outages can be reported by calling 105 (Powercut 105 is a free service that will put you through to your local network operator for help and support).

    Remember that if there’s an immediate threat to life during any adverse weather event, you should always call 999.

  • Storm Eunice – bin collections, country parks and other latest info for Wrexham

    Storm Eunice – bin collections, country parks and other latest info for Wrexham

    Bins

    There will be normal bin collections across Wrexham tomorrow (i.e. Friday’s collections will go ahead).

    Please can you ensure that all recycling and refuse / green waste is ready from 7.30am.

    County parks

    Please remember not to go to our country parks or Bellvue Park tomorrow.

    Take extra care to avoid areas with large amounts of trees that could be effected by the storm.

    Travel

    All train services in Wales have been suspended by Network Rail / Transport for Wales and all school transport has been cancelled due to school premises being closed.

    Members of the public are advised not to travel unless absolutely necessary.

    Councillor David A Bithell, Wrexham Council’s Lead Member for Environment and Transport, says:

    “We’re preparing for the worst and our streetscene services will be operating as normal and contingency arrangements are in place.

    “Please be aware of the weather forecast and take all precautions at home as necessary to be as safe as possible. For example, try to place garden furniture in sheds or garages.”

    Reminder – how to report issues

    While we’re hoping Wrexham avoids the worst of the weather, you can report any issues (e.g. storm damage, fallen trees etc) to the council on the following numbers:

    • Office hours (8.30am-5pm) 01978 298989
    • Out of hours 01978 292055
    • Housing repairs for council tenants (24hrs) 01978 298993

    Any issues with power-outages can be reported by calling 105 (Powercut 105 is a free service that will put you through to your local network operator for help and support).

    Remember that if there’s an immediate threat to life during any adverse weather event, you should always call 999.

    Storm Eunice – Wrexham schools move to online learning this Friday (Feb 18)

  • Storm Eunice – Wrexham schools move to online learning this Friday (Feb 18)

    Storm Eunice – Wrexham schools move to online learning this Friday (Feb 18)

    Schools in Wrexham will move to online learning tomorrow (Friday, February 18) as a precautionary measure against Storm Eunice.

    The storm is set to hit much of the UK – including Wales – tomorrow morning, with powerful winds forecast.

    The decision to move to online learning has been taken following advice from the North Wales Strategic Command Group, which includes councils, emergency services and other organisations from across the region.

    Schools are busy informing parents.

    Councillor Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, says:

    “As always, public safety is our absolute priority during any adverse weather event, and we don’t want children and parents to be put at risk from high winds and flying debris while trying to get to and from school.

    “As a result, and on the advice of the Strategic Command Group, we’re moving to online learning tomorrow so children can continue to learn in the safety of their homes.

    “This is the right thing to do and I fully support the approach being taken. When it comes to severe weather forecasts like Storm Eunice, we have to be cautious and do everything we can to help keep people safe.”

    Councillor Phil Wynn, Lead Member for Education, says:

    “I would ask parents to bear with us and hope everyone understands our reasons for this approach.

    “Schools are well-versed in providing online learning, so children will be able to continue with their education without having to risk travelling out in the bad weather.

    “There is always the possibility that power outages could impact on home learning, but hopefully this won’t happen.

    “I would like to say a huge thank you to our schools for responding so quickly and professionally to the situation, and although we’re planning for the worst, let’s hope for the best and keep our fingers crossed that Wrexham can escape the worst of the storm.”

    Reminder – how to report issues

    While we’re hoping Wrexham avoids the worst of the weather, you can report any issues (e.g. storm damage, fallen trees etc) to the council on the following numbers:

    • Office hours (8.30am-5pm) 01978 298989
    • Out of hours 01978 292055
    • Housing repairs for council tenants (24hrs) 01978 298993

    Any issues with power-outages can be reported by calling 105 ( Powercut 105 is a free service that will put you through to your local network operator for help and support).

    Remember that if there’s an immediate threat to life during any adverse weather event, you should always call 999.

    READ MORE…

  • A tribute to Welsh Language Commissioner and former councillor Aled Roberts

    A tribute to Welsh Language Commissioner and former councillor Aled Roberts

    Wrexham Council has paid tribute to former councillor and Welsh Language Commissioner Aled Roberts, who has sadly passed away at the age of 59.

    Brought up in Rhosllanerchrugog, Mr Roberts represented Rhos and Ponciau from 1991 to 2012, and was also Mayor of Wrexham from 2003 to 2004.

    He became Leader of Wrexham Council in 2005 and went on to serve as a Welsh Government Assembly Member from 2011 to 2016.

    In 2019 he became Welsh Language Commissioner – helping to protect and promote the language across the whole of Wales.

    Passionate about Wrexham and Wales

    In a joint statement, the Mayor of Wrexham Ronnie Prince, current Leader of the Council Mark Pritchard, and Chief Executive Ian Bancroft said:

    “On behalf of the whole of Wrexham Council, we would like to extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to Aled’s family.

    “He was a much-loved father and husband, and a wonderful public servant who did so much for Wrexham and Wales.

    “Aled will always be remembered here at the council as a kind and warm person with a lovely sense of humour. He was always professional, thoughtful and intelligent, and was hugely respected by everyone he worked with.

    “He was also incredibly passionate about Wrexham and Wales, and was a tremendous ambassador for the Welsh language.

    “He was a wonderful person, and his former colleagues here at the council – both councillors and employees – will miss him very much. We will always remember him.”

    The flags outside the Guildhall will be flown at half-mast.

  • Covid-19 briefing note – boosters and second doses for young people in Wrexham

    Covid-19 briefing note – boosters and second doses for young people in Wrexham

    👉 Wales completes move to alert level 0 👈

    Boosters for 16 and 17 year olds

    All children and young people aged 16 to 17 years old are now being offered booster doses of the vaccine following a recommendation from the JCVI.

    The booster dose should be offered no sooner than three months after completion of their primary course.

    Booster doses can be given at drop-in clinics across North Wales, or you can also book an appointment online for some clinics, or call 03000 840004.

    Second doses for 12 to 15 year olds

    The local NHS health board is now offering second doses to 12 to 15 year olds.

    Again, these can be given at drop-in clinics across North Wales, or you can also book an appointment online for some clinics, or call 03000 840004.

    Read more…

    Self-isolation period reduced

    People who test positive for Covid-19 will be able to leave self-isolation after five full days if they have two negative lateral flow tests.

    The two consecutive negative lateral flow tests must be taken on days five and six of the isolation period.

    The changes came into effect on January 28, as Wales completed the move to alert level 0.

    Read more…

    How to get extra lateral flow test kits

    If you need more lateral flow kits, you can order them online, or collect them from local pick-up points.

    Attendance limit increased at Pentrebychan

    Back in December, we introduced a two-metre social-distancing rule for funerals at Pentrebychan crematorium, with a maximum of 45 attendees.

    However, as Wales moves back to alert level zero, we can once again revert to up to 100 attendees in the crematorium chapel. This will hopefully make things a little easier for family and friends saying goodbye to loved ones during these difficult times.

    Local undertakers have been informed.

  • Wrexham school set for multi-million pound refurb

    Wrexham school set for multi-million pound refurb

    A local school is gearing up for a multi-million pound transformation that will bring the very best learning facilities to Johnstown.

    The £4.5 million extension and refurbishment of Ysgol yr Hafod will also pave the way for both infants and juniors to be taught on the same site at Bangor Road.

    Preparations are being made to ensure pupils continue their learning uninterrupted while construction takes place, and at the end of February (after the half-term break) junior pupils will temporarily move from Bangor Road to the infants’ site in Melyd Avenue.

    Mobile classrooms are being installed ready to accommodate the extra numbers, and parents and residents are being kept informed.

    The work is being funded by the Welsh Government 21st Century Schools programme.

    Exciting times

    Councillor David A Bithell, Chair of School Governors, says plans are progressing well:

    “The next stage is to move all pupils to the Foundation Phase site on Melyd Avenue from March 1, and we’re communicating with parents and local residents about the plans.

    “These are exciting times and we’re looking forward to having a new school and improving the facilities for children and staff – although we do recognise that some of the parking issues will be challenging during the interim period.

    “We’re working really hard to address local concerns and the school and myself will keep parents and residents updated as work progresses.”

    Headteacher Mrs Alison Heale says:

    “The young people of Johnstown deserve the very best facilities, and when the work at Bangor Road is complete, we’ll have an inspiring and modern learning environment that will benefit all of our children.

    “Although the interim period will bring its challenges, we’re well-prepared and ready to rise to those challenges. This is a hugely exciting time for pupils, staff and parents.”

    Councillor Phil Wynn, Wrexham Council’s Lead Member for Education, says:

    “Bringing all the children together on one modern site – with the best classrooms and facilities – will be an exciting step forward for Ysgol yr Hafod.

    “It’s a wonderful school with dedicated staff and governors, and I’m delighted we can undertake this work using funding from the 21st Century Schools programme.”

    Timeline and advice for parents

    The following dates provide a useful timeline for parents and local residents (although dates may be subject to change, depending on how work progresses).

    January 10-31

    Preparation work for mobile classrooms at Melyd Avenue (drainage, foundations etc).

    Week starting January 31

    Delivery of mobile classrooms.

    • If you live on roads directly affected by the route of the mobiles and crane, you should receive a letter with a map of the route.

    February 7-18

    Mobile classrooms made ready for juniors.

    February 18

    Bangor Road site closed to pupils to allow furniture to be packed and moved. Melyd Avenue site open as normal.

    February 21-25

    Half term week – school closed.

    • Removal teams will finish moving furniture from the juniors’ site at Bangor Road to the infants’ site at Melyd Avenue.

    February 28

    Staff training day – school is closed to pupils.

    • Staff will be unpacking and setting up the classrooms ready for pupils to return.

    March 1

    School reopens.

    • All pupils (both infants and juniors) will return to the site at Melyd Avenue, allowing construction work to begin at Bangor Road.
    • The school crossing patrol will move from Bangor Road to the infants’ site while construction work takes place.
  • Wrexham Council – statement regarding future Council meetings

    Wrexham Council – statement regarding future Council meetings

    The Mayor and Group Leaders recognise the need to have high-quality public debate in Council meetings that respects different viewpoints and individuals, and that upholds democratic principles.

    Following positive meetings, since the November Council meeting, between the Mayor, Group Leaders and key officers, it has been recognised that at that Council meeting in November there was a risk that if the legal advice provided by the monitoring officer, which was ultimately accepted, had not been followed then the Council would have been acting unconstitutionally.

    To address this for future meetings, the following positive actions have been agreed:

    • Training for the current Mayor around chairing, the constitution and the role of the monitoring officer.
    • Training for incoming Mayors around chairing, the constitution and the role of the monitoring officer.
    • Training for all Councillors as part of their induction around the types of meeting debates, the constitution and the role of the monitoring officer.