news.wrexham.gov.uk

Category: Featured

Featured posts

“Ewe Better Look Out!” – New spring arrivals means the Wrexham Sheep Trail flock has grown
Since 2016, Wrexham has had a number of woolly residents, dotted about for locals and visitors to find and follow as part of the Wrexham Sheep trail. Exciting news for the flock is that the original 23 sheep have now been joined by 11 more.
More businesses from across the area have partnered with the This Is Wrexham Tourism Partnership and ourselves to sponsor and design their own sheep model which has become part of a 34-strong Wrexham Sheep family. Local artist Ellie Ashby has been responsible for helping produce the finished sheep, with creative input from all businesses and organisations.
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Added to the familiar faces such as Doris from Borras, Angelina, Baali and Lady Baa Baa, a bigger trail has been established to continue to encourage people to visit the sheep in their areas.
Maps are available to download on the Tourism Partnership’s website at www.thisiswrexham.co.uk/wrexhamsheep, or can be collected from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre, or many of the locations on the trail.
“Take photos with the sheep”
Visitors are encouraged to take photos of themselves with the sheep, and post them on social media using the hashtag #wrexhamsheep. The sheep also have their own Twitter account @wrexhamsheep!
New sheep names and their locations are as follows:
- Dr Mutton & Nurse Lamb – Spire Yale Hospital, Wrexham Technology Park
- Bedwr – North Wales Beds, Gwersyllt
- Baawyn – HMP Berwyn
- Lewis’s Sheep – Lewis’s Farm Shop, Eyton
- Blodwyn – Coleg Cambria, Yale Campus
- Sheepy McSheep Face – The Fat Boar, Wrecsam
- Leonard – Leonard Cheshire Can Do (located at Wrexham Library)
- Merlin – Rossett Hall Hotel, Rossett
- Marky & Arty – Ty Pawb/ South Arcade, Wrexham
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May 2, 2018
Proposals for a new Town Centre Parking scheme for staff and members permits
At its next meeting Wrexham Council’s Executive Board will be asked to support a scheme to charge staff and members to park in the town centre and to seek comments from those affected, group leaders and trade unions.
The Council currently provides free parking to some of its staff and to elected members in town centre parks.
The move follows the Difficult Decisions budget process, which put forward proposals to begin charging those affected, in order to encourage more sustainable modes of travel to work – such as public transport – and to generate additional income for those who choose to pay for parking.
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The proposed charge will be approximately £100 per year.
The report will be presented by Cllr David A Bithell, Lead Member for the Environment and Transport.
“Good level of public support”
Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Communities, Partnerships, Public Protection and Community Safety, said: “When we put the Difficult Decisions consultation out to the public back in the winter, one of the many options proposed as part of the Council’s efforts to reduce costs and generate income was to bring the current free parking offer for members and some staff to an end.
“This option attracted a good level of public support, and we feel it is right that this proposal be discussed with relevant parties.”
Cllr Mark Pritchard, Lead Member for Finance, Performance, Health and Safety and Governance, said: “We’re very pleased that we’ve been able to identify this potential method of income generation, with the full agreement of all parties involved in the administration of the council.
“Free parking for some staff and members has been in place for some time, but given the financial pressures we face, we felt it right and proper that this option be considered, and that dialogue is opened with those affected, along with group leaders and trade unions.”
“Lot of work on town centre car parking”
Cllr David A Bithell, Lead Member for Transport, said: “We’ve done a lot of work on town centre car parking over the past few years, including the installation of new machines with Chip and Pin and Contactless technology, and changes to our tariffs to ensure we remain competitive and that charges are balanced across all car parks.
“This move is part of a long process of ensuring our charges remain both competitive and fair, and I want to thank my fellow lead members for their work on this and allowing me to bring this forward.”
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May 1, 2018
Plans to charge for parking for blue badge holders and at country parks update
We recently held a consultation asking for your views on plans to charge £1 to park in our country parks and to introduce charges for blue badge holders in all our council car parks.
“Who did we consult with?”
We sent to all our usual statutory bodies such as BT, Ambulance Service, Coach Association and Private Hire Association. We didn’t receive any responses from these bodies.
We also sent to specific disability charities such as disability Wales, Mencap, Mind, Diverse Cymru and locally to AVOW. We didn’t receive any responses from these bodies.
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The consultation was also open to the general public at large and we placed site notices at each town centre car park, Tŷ Pawb, Ruabon Station, Wrexham Technology Park and the country park locations affected by the proposals. There was also a notice placed in the Leader newspaper and 1 March with an email address added for responses to be sent.
A total of 116 individuals replied to the consultatons.
We can break these down into the following
21 showed support for both proposals
21 objected to introducing disabled charges
53 objected to introducing country parks car park charges
21 objected to both proposals.
Concerns that were raised during the consultation are varied and range from not being affordable for disabled people to the impact it will have on the numbers visiting our country parks. The accessibility of machines was also mentioned as was people no longer visiting the town centre.
In response it is noted that the blue badge scheme is not financially means tested and and we shouldn’t assume that blue badge holders are unable to pay for parking. Visitors to both the town centre and country parks will be monitored and the machines will be fully compliant with the Equality Act 2010.
We will now introduce car parking charges at the country parks as proposed with the exception of charging disabled blue badge holders as there is no alternative parking for blue badge holders at these locations. The proposed charges for disabled blue badge holders in all council operated car parks will be introduced with no amendments.
Cllr David A Bithell, Lead Member for the Environment and Transport, said: “Introducing charges where previously a facility was free was always going to create disappointment amongst members of the public. We have however, kept the charges to a minimum at the country parks and I am pleased that blue badge holders will not have to pay to park when visiting them. We will be monitoring the visitor numbers to assess the impact of the charges.”
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May 1, 2018
Enrichment paying off for young people
Students from across Wrexham have been rewarded for their hard work and commitment at a special Enrichment Awards ceremony at the William Aston Hall.
The successful students have all taken part in an Enrichment programme during this school year which has enabled them to gain additional qualifications to take forward into the world of work, training or education Post 16.
“Vocational focus”
The Enrichment Programme, a partnership between all secondary schools, St Christopher’s Special School and the local colleges of Further Education, is open to students who are studying at Key Stage 4 and who may need a little bit more than the school curriculum has to offer. Through participation outside of the normal classroom environment in practical courses which have a vocational focus helps to keep students engaged in study.
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The students travel from their secondary school to a variety of course venues including Coleg Cambria at Northop, Bersham Road, Deeside, Llysfasi and the Grove Park site. A number of courses are also provided through St Christopher’s School.
“Challenging and extremely rewarding”
Steve Stockdale, Enrichment Coordinator, said: “Every school has pupils who can benefit from Enrichment and at present we are working to coordinate the activities of over 300 students to make sure they can achieve at something they have a particular interest in. It’s challenging and extremely rewarding work. Students from 14 schools have taken part this year and we have had 33 courses for them to choose from. They’ve all done very well and it’s been a real pleasure getting to know them and see how their courses have kept them on track to leave school with at least one relevant vocational qualification
Awards presented at the ceremony were for Outstanding Students of the Year and for achievement in Construction, Hair and Beauty, Public Services, Vocational Taster, Hair and Beauty, Animal Care, Derwen Entry Level Course, Motor Mechanics, Retail, Bushcraft, Catering, Drama, Visual Arts, Welding and Fabrication, Mentor Certificates, Horticulture and Agriculture, Sports and Leisure, Engineering, Health and Social Care and Land Based Studies.
A number of special guests were involved in presenting the prizes including the Mayor and Mayoress of Wrexham Cllr John and Mrs Ann Pritchard, Ian Lucas MP, Lesley Griffiths AM, Ian Roberts Head of Education Wrexham, Cllr Bill Baldwin, Lead Member for Children’s Services, Graham Edwards, Vice Chairman of St Christopher’s Governors, Maxine Pittaway Headteacher of St Christopher’s School as well as a number of Senior Staff from the High Schools.
“Clearly enjoyed their time”
Cllr Bill Baldwin, Lead Member for Children’s Services, said: “It was a pleasure to be at the awards ceremony and meet the young people who have clearly enjoyed their time on the Enrichment programme. It is an excellent programme and one which is benefitting everyone who is involved. Well done to everyone and I wish the students well for their future.”
A special thank you goes to Pizza Express for their generosity in providing the prizes for the event.

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May 1, 2018
Thursday is for everyone at Tŷ Pawb!
Dydd Iau Pawb (Everybody’s Thursday) is Tŷ Pawb’s weekly creative and learning events day!
Throughout the day, there will be all sorts of imaginative activities for all ages and abilities.
So whether you want to be creative, or you just want to enjoy some live music or simply have a cuppa and a chat, Dydd Iau Pawb is the day for you!
Here’s a round up of what will be happening:
Mini Movers
Dance with you little one in a fun and dynamic creative movement and play session. The theme of the class will be inspired by the art exhibitions on display at Tŷ Pawb and use a mix of props, songs, games and your imagination.
- Mini Movers is open to all children under 4.
- It takes place at Tŷ Pawb’s Performance Space from 9.30am-10.15am
Tŷ Dance
A focus on mobility, fitness and dance with a mix of routines that are self-directed or taught. The classes will contain a mixture of prop-work, partner-work, standing or chair based dance exercises.
• Tŷ Dance is suitable for anyone aged over 40.
• It takes place in the Performance Space from 10.30am-12.30pm.
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Mindfulness Drawing
An activity to encourage calmness, happiness and creativity, inspired by our current exhibition – ‘Is this Planet Earth?’ No experience required.
• This takes place in Gallery 1 from 1pm-2pm.
• It’s free to attend.
Men’s Sheds
Men’s sheds was established in Wrexham in 2016 by Stephen & Derek at the Gwersyllt Community Centre. The aim of the group is to overcome social exclusion and encourage both men and women to get involved in their local community and make it a better place. Take part in craft and design activities, play a board game or just to have a chat over coffee.
• Men’s Sheds is open to men and women aged over 18 years.
• It takes place in Gallery 2 from 1pm-2pm.
Tea, Coffee, Conversation and Drawing activity
Come along for a chat and a cuppa, with the option of taking part in a drawing activity if you feel inspired!
• This is a free activity.
• It takes place in Gallery 2 from 1pm-2pm.
Junior Dance
A vibrant and physical dance class with opportunities to explore creative choreography. The theme of the class will be inspired by the art exhibitions on display at Tŷ Pawb.
• This activity is for children aged 5+
• It takes place in the Performance Space from 4pm-5pm.
• Cost per child is £3.50
Life Drawing Sessions
This a a weekly event. Its an untutored session working from a life model.
- The session runs from 6.30pm-8.30pm.
- Cost is £11 per session. A concession rate of £8 is also available.
How to book a place
If you’d like to come to any of the events listed above, book your place by phoning Tŷ Pawb on 01978 292093 or email: typawb@wrexham.gov.uk
Free Daytime Concert
To top things off, Classical Guitarist, Achille Jones will be performing in our Flexible Space (AKA The People’s Square) from 1pm-2pm. This is part of our series of fortnightly live music showcases.
Achille Jones
No need to book a place for the concert. Just come and enjoy!
Lead Member for People – Communities, Partnerships Public Protection and Community Safety, Cllr Hugh Jones, said: “I welcome the wide range of activities that are taking place at Ty Pawb. There is something to appeal to all ages and abilities.
“Already Ty Pawb is becoming the focus for people from across Wrexham and beyond. I am sure the traders who have committed to Ty Pawb will be pleased to see the significant footfall and wide ranging attractions.”
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April 30, 2018
Can you help us look after 12,000 homes? Take a look at these jobs…
Please note these jobs are no longer open to applications.
Wrexham Council is one of the biggest council housing providers in Wales.
In fact, we provide around 12,000 homes across the county borough, and keeping those properties in good repair is really important.
And maybe that’s where you come in?
We’ve got several job opportunities in our housing repairs team at the moment – ranging from site agents to building surveyors.
So if you think you might have the right skills, you should take a look.
And get this. Working for a council can be a good career option – it usually comes with a pension, good leave allowance, relative stability and flexibility.
Take a peep…
[button color=”” size=”large” type=”square_outlined” target=”new” link=”http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/council/Housing/housing_jobs.htm “]YES…SHOW ME THE JOBS![/button] [button color=”” size=”large” type=”square_outlined” link=”https://news.wrexham.gov.uk”]NO THANKS…I’M GOOD[/button]
April 30, 2018
A483 50 mph restrictions
We’re sure you are aware of the decision by the Welsh Government to reduce the speed limit on the A483(T) between J5 Mold Road Interchange to J6 Gresford Interchange from the national speed limit to 50 mph.
The A483(T) is one of a number of roads across the country where speeds will be reduced to help ensure Wales complies with EU Ambient Air Quality Directive.
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The decision will be implemented by the end of June and the Council will be making representation to the Welsh Government on the decision.
“Cllr David A Bithell, Lead member for transport and the environment, said: “Whilst any effort to reduce emission levels is to be applauded I am not convinced this is the right time or place to be introducing, at such short notice, a 50 mph speed restriction in an already congested area.”
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April 30, 2018
Abnormal loads to cause disruption
If you’re using the A483 Chirk along the A5 to Llangollen and Corwen you should be aware that North Wales Police will be escorting abnormal loads daily to the Wind Farm in Brenig.
The work is likely to last 14 weeks and disruptions are likely so please be patient if you find yourself affected by this work.
Please be aware that from 10am today we will be assisting with escorting abnormal loads daily from A483 #Chirk along the #A5 #Llangollen & #Corwen up to the windfarm in #Brenig. This work is likely to last 14 weeks so disruptions are likely but we will try and keep to a minimum
— NWPRoadsPolicingUnit (@NWPRPU) April 30, 2018
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April 30, 2018
Wrexham Food and Drink Festival Is Back
Wrexham Food and Drink Festival has been rebooted for 2018 to now include a beer hall & an extended afternoon and evening programme with live music.
A rebooted Wrexham Food and Drink Festival will return to the town this year – with the event featuring for the first time a beer hall and an extended afternoon and evening programme with live music.
The festival will return to Llwyn Isaf on the weekend of the 22nd of September and organisers promise that the event will be bigger and better.
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A team including Plât Bach’s Alex Jones, the Lemon Tree’s Sam Regan have taken the reins this year with the aim to expand the festival over the next three years. The ‘This Is Wrexham’ team are supporting the effort, with help from famous local brands including King Street Coffee Company and Wrexham Lager.
“Bierkeller” marquee
As well as the much loved food and drink offer from previous years, there will also be a greater focus on entertainment at the festival, with a range of local bands playing into the evenings and even a new special ‘Bierkeller’ marquee complete with its very own oompah band.
Feedback from the previous years’ events has been taken onboard and organisers say they hope visitors see more value for money this year. Cost to stallholders have been reduced with spaces filling up fast – many this year being first time exhibitors to Wrexham.
Half of the proceeds of the event will be donated to a local charity, and half retained specifically to make the following years event bigger and better.
“Reception has been tremendous”
Commenting on the festival reboot, co-organiser Alex Jones said: “The Wrexham Food Festival has been successful over the last few years under the stewardship of Nightingale House. We now have an opportunity to build on their work, and are looking to eventually to grow it through the town centre.”
“Although we have not even formally launched the event the reception so far has been tremendous with lots of people wanting to show off their food and drink. We are hoping that the people of Wrexham will come down and enjoy the extra entertainment to make a real afternoon and evening of it – with the chance to do so both on the Saturday and the Sunday.”
Sam Regan added: “For the ‘festival week’ beforehand, we are hoping that the town joins in with a range of special menus and offers at our great range of local restaurants and bars to really get involved.”
Cllr Terry Evans, Lead Member for Economic Performance and Regeneration, said: “Events such as the Food and Drink Festival are always draw visitors into the town, and give local food producers and sellers the chance to showcase and market their wares locally.
“As such, I’m very pleased to hear that the Food and Drink Festival will return to the town later in the summer, and would like to thank all those involved for their efforts.”
Anyone who would like further information on stalls, or to get involved, are asked to email team@wrexhamfoodfestival.wales or follow them on social media @WrexhamFood .
Wrexham Food Festival will be held on Llywn Isaf, outside the Guildhall in Wrexham town centre on September 22 and 23.
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April 27, 2018
Veterans homes scheme has just a few places left
We know how difficult it can be for former armed forces personnel to find suitable housing once they find themselves back in civilian life.
Back in 2015, we partnered with First Choice Housing Association to build new flats for service veterans.
We worked with homeless veterans as part of the project, giving them on-site work experience when putting together the new flats, as well as the chance of a home when work was completed – one they could be proud to say they’d worked on themselves.
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Named Tŷ Ryan, the flats were completed in March and are now open for applications.
There are just a handful of two-bedroom flats left at Tŷ Ryan, and as such we’d encourage anyone with an armed forces background and looking for a new home to get in touch.
“Can be difficult for veterans to readjust”
Cllr David Griffiths, Lead Member for Housing and Wrexham Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “We appreciate it can be difficult for veterans to re-adjust to civilian life, and some of the problems they encounter while trying to settle down could affect them well after they’ve been discharged from the armed forces.
“We worked on Ty Ryan alongside the First Choice Housing Association with the aim of taking some of that pressure off, and we hope we’ve been successful in the aim in creating quality housing which suits veterans’ needs.”
Veterans urged to get in touch
If you are ex-forces and looking for housing; are related to an ex-forces person or have links to a veteran through marriage, it could be worth your while getting in touch – especially given that there are just a few flats left.
The scheme is open to those in employment or unemployed; single people and families and charges affordable rents.
The registration takes no longer than 15 minutes, followed by an application to Wrexham Council.
For more information, contact First Choice on 02920 713765 or 02920 713752; or alternatively e-mail wrexhamhousing@fcha.org.uk
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April 27, 2018