News
Happy St David's Day
Corporate Plan: The Denbighshire we want 2022-2027
Every five years, the Council has to produce something called a 'Corporate Plan'. This plan gives the Council focus and helps all of the Council's services to work together, to plan and achieve specific goals that will help to make Denbighshire a better place to live, work and visit, for everyone.
The current Corporate Plan began in 2017 and will end in 2022. The priorities identified for the Council in the current Corporate Plan included:
- Housing: Everyone is supported to live in homes that meet their needs. Find out more about the Housing Corporate Priority
- Connected Communities: Communities are connected and have access to goods and services locally, online and through good transport links. Find out more about the Connected Communities Corporate Priority
- Resilient Communities: The council works with people and communities to build independence and resilience. Find out more about the Resilient Communities Corporate Priority
- Environment: Attractive and protected, supporting well-being and economic prosperity. Find out more about the Environment Corporate Priority
- Young People: A place where younger people will want to live and work and have the skills to do so. Find out more about the Young People Corporate Priority
What do we want to know?
Between May 2021 and July 2021, we ran an engagement exercise called Continuing the County Conversation where we asked people to tell us what they thought of the corporate priorities and whether these were still relevant for 2022-2027.
From this initial engagement activity, we have created some draft themes for our new corporate plan.
We would now like to know what you think.
We would be grateful if you could complete the online survey linked below and let us know if you think our new themes will help to make Denbighshire a better place to live, work in and visit.
Please click on the link to complete the survey >>> https://countyconversation.denbighshire.gov.uk/project/662
Closing date: 11 March 2022
Appeal for the return of unwanted therapy equipment
County residents are being urged to return unwanted therapy equipment to help others in need.
The Council’s Equipment Service is calling on residents to return community therapy and disability equipment that is no longer in use. The appeal follows a shortage of equipment for the service along with other local authorities and NHS Trusts across the UK. An amnesty is in operation to help source any unrequired equipment across the county.
The service provides equipment for Social Services and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board services within Denbighshire.
If you have any unwanted equipment, staff will arrange to collect, clean and reuse any that is in a good condition previously provided by the service.Items in particular demand include raised toilet seats, toilet frames, shower chairs, perching stools, kitchen trolleys, commodes and shower stools.
If you have community therapy or disability equipment that you no longer need to use, please contact the Community Equipment Service to return the items to support the service in helping others. You can ring them on 01745 344675 or e-mail them at CESI@denbighshire.gov.uk
Do you provide print, graphic design or vehicle livery?
Does your business offer print or graphic design or vehicle livery production or banners and signage?
If so you might be interested in the opportunity to apply to be on the dynamic purchasing system for Denbighshire County Council and Flintshire County Council.
The opportunity can be found on PROACTIS and is open to all business who provide print, graphic design or vehicle livery. The DPS is open until 2027 so you can apply at any time.
Please take a look and apply online https://supplierlive.proactisp2p.com/
If you have any questions regarding your application please contact print@denbighshire.gov.uk or via telephone 01824 706223.
Local Development Plan (LDP) Update
All Councils in Wales are expected by law to produce Local Development Plans which guides development in their county. All plans must be monitored annually and reviewed every four years.
Work is still progressing on the replacement LDP but it has been significantly impacted by a number of things that are causing delays. These include the Covid 19 pandemic and changes in National policy and guidance that require additional work to be done.
One of the key areas of additional work is in relation to flood risk. Until this work is completed the Council cannot progress the LDP strategy or complete the assessments of candidate sites submitted for consideration. It is appreciated that everyone is keen to see the results of site assessments but due to the on-going work, reporting on candidate sites assessments will not take place until summer 2022 at the earliest. All of the candidate sites will be reported on together and the Council will not be providing updates on individual sites before this.
The current LDP will remain in place and will be the plan and policies that all planning applications are assessed against until the replacement LDP is adopted. A revised timetable that sets out how and when the Council will consult on the replacement LDP will be available later this year.
If you want to be kept up to date with progress on the replacement LDP please contact the Strategic Planning and Housing Team via planningpolicy@denbighshire.gov.uk with your details.
Reminder of Public Space Protection Order in Denbighshire
Dog owners are being reminded to pick up after their pets while out walking.
A Public Space Protection Order is in force in the county which allows the Council to take action, including issuing fines against owners who allow their dogs to foul in an area of public land without cleaning up after them.
The Council works with District Enforcement who deploy officers to regularly patrol the county in order to prevent littering and irresponsible dog ownership.
Councillor Mark Young, Lead Member for Planning, Public Protection and Safer Communities, said: “The majority of dog owners act responsibly and the Council would like to thank them for ensuring our communities remain clean and attractive for our residents.
“However, we have noticed an increase in dog fouling on pavements over the winter months as many dog walkers change their usual routes due to the darker evenings and mornings.
“We have received a number of complaints from residents because some dog owners are allowing their dog to foul outside people’s homes, businesses and even schools and not clearing it up.
“We want to make it clear that irresponsible dog owners are in breach of the Public Space Protection Order and could receive a £100 fixed penalty notice.
“Patrols are ongoing and we are also encouraging people who witness this to contact us with information so we are able to target our enforcement patrols.”
To report a dog owner not clearing up after their pet, please provide a description of the person, a description of the dog as well as the time and location of the offence.
All litter bins and your black bin at home can be used to deposit dog mess which is bagged and tied and free dog bags can be collected from the Council’s one-stop shops.
To report an incident of dog fouling visit our website.
Work finishes ahead of schedule and under budget on flood defence scheme in Rhyl
The East Rhyl Coastal Defence Scheme, funded by the Council and the Welsh Government will protect 1,650 properties in East Rhyl from coastal flooding.
Works began in April 2020 and were due to end in December 2022, however the scheme has been completed ahead of schedule.
The successful placement of 128,000 tonnes of rock armour in front of the existing sea defences at East Rhyl and the newly added 600 metres of sea defence wall and promenade will protect the area from current storms and the impact of climate change.
Councillor Brian Jones, the Council’s Lead Member for Waste, Transport and the Environment, said: “We have always been committed to completing these works as quickly as possible so that our communities are protected from any potential risk of flooding.”
“We are extremely pleased the works to safeguard hundreds of residents and businesses in the area from current storms and future rise in sea levels in the area, are complete ten months ahead of schedule. It is also pleasing to note that the project has been delivered well within the budget costing.”
“I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the success of the scheme.”
Principal contractors Balfour Beatty undertook the majority of works.
Community benefits from the scheme included a beach access gate at Old Golf Road for use at weekends, renovation works at the Splash Point and the donation of groynes to the RNLI for their memorial area and to Friends of the Cob for the Glan Morfa site.
Other benefits included using the North Wales supply chain for rock deliveries, a virtual mentoring session with Working Denbighshire to help those looking for work in the construction industry and donations to Sussex Street Food Bank.
Eddie Lundon, Area Director at Balfour Beatty, said: “Through the Scape framework, we are delighted to have safely and successfully completed this critical scheme which will protect numerous homes and businesses in East Rhyl.”
“Utilising our extensive coastal experience, we were able to complete the programme ahead of schedule, utilising a local supply chain whilst making a significant and sustainable contribution to the local community.”
The Minister for Climate Change, Julie James said: “The flooding of homes and businesses in Rhyl in 2013 is still fresh in people’s memories and with climate change very much upon us, we know such events are likely to become more frequent in the future. I am therefore pleased to provide funding to Denbighshire County Council from our Coastal Risk Management Programme for this substantial scheme to help protect homes, businesses and infrastructure from the impact of floods.”
For more information about the scheme please visit our website.
Sustrans e-Move Pilot Study
What’s E-Move?
Sustrans is the leading sustainable transport charity in the UK. Our vision is a society where the way we travel creates healthier places and happier lives for everyone. Our mission is to make it easier for people to walk and cycle.
Sustrans are currently delivering the E-Move project in Denbighshire.
E-Move is an electric cycle loan scheme for residents of Rhyl. The pilot scheme, which has been funded by Welsh Government and consists of 20 eBikes, is helping people who may find the cost of e-bikes a barrier to using them. E-move offers members of the community a free, four-week loan of an eBike and provides a healthy, sustainable and affordable way to travel.
Aims
E-Move aims to reduce carbon emissions by replacing some of the journeys usually made by car.
The project seeks to demonstrate a solution to transport poverty. For those without access to a car, and in situations where public transport is limited (or the cost prohibitive) electric cycles can help make longer journeys possible. This increased mobility can create opportunities for work, education and socialisation.
Another intention is to showcase the potential benefits of active travel, including an increase in both physical health and mental wellbeing.
Additionally, by promoting active travel, the scheme aims to improve local air quality.
Sustrans Cymru work in partnership with the Council as part of the Welsh Government’s Active Travel Scheme on improving the walking and cycling routes in the county.
Eligibility
Residents of Rhyl are invited to apply to loan an electric cycle. Contact Sustrans Project Officer - Jonny Eldridge - to request a welcome pack and application form:
jonny.eldridge@sustrans.org.uk.
To be eligible you will be over 18 years of age and able to cycle safely, a resident of an area within Rhyl and either:
- living in an area listed in the Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation as one of the 10-50% most deprived wards in Wales. You can check your postcode on their website;
- living in a rural place that can be reached by e-bike with the intention of replacing car trips, or;
- living in a hilly location that can be reached by e-bike with the intention of replacing car trips.
E-Move beneficiaries will need to complete a survey before and after the loan, and may also be asked to undertake a 30-45 minute research interview. This will help us to understand people’s experience of using an e-bike. The survey will look at the challenges of using one, and how people, organisations and places can benefit from electric cycles.
The outcome of this project will help us develop recommendations for future eBike initiatives across Wales.
Events
Sustrans will be hosting a series of events in Rhyl, which will enable members of the community to try riding an eBike in a traffic-free environment. A great opportunity for anyone who is new, or returning, to cycling to build confidence.
The first E-Move event will be taking place at Marsh Tracks Bike Park on Sunday 27th March.
For more information, and to register your interest, contact Jonny Eldridge at: jonny.eldridge@sustrans.org.uk
Winter of wellbeing for children and young people in Denbighshire
Children and young people in Denbighshire can get involved in supporting their wellbeing this winter.
The Council is providing a range of free sporting, cultural and play based bilingual activities as part of the Welsh Government’s Winter of Wellbeing Programme.
This winter, the Welsh Government announced funding for a variety of interactive, creative, and play-based activities for a wide range of ages. By creating plenty of safe places for free play and physical activity, children and young people alike can come together and have fun while also strengthening their social, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
Events are taking place across the county.
Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts, the Council’s Lead Member for Education, Children's Services and Public Engagement, said: “We are pleased to be supporting this project and offering a fantastic bilingual programme of events in Denbighshire. The Council is working with a number of partners on this project and I would like to thank all those taking part.
All events and activities will have Covid-19 safety measures in place, which attendees will need to follow.
To book onto one of the events in the county or activities, or for further information on the Winter of Wellbeing, please visit our website.
Register to vote
Don’t lose your right to vote and have your say in the County Council and Town and Community Council elections taking place on Thursday, 5 May.
Voting also ensures you have a say on the issues of the day while being on the electoral register can maintain your credit rating.
In order to vote in the upcoming elections, your name needs to be on the electoral register. Check the letter that is being sent to your home to ensure that everyone entitled to vote is on the list.
Everyone is responsible for registering themselves – if your name or the name of another person residing at your address is not on the list, then they are not registered.
To register, go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.
You have until 5pm on Thursday 14 April to register to vote. You also have until Tuesday 19 April to apply for a postal vote and Tuesday 26 April to apply for a proxy vote.
All the information you need about voting and elections in Denbighshire can be found at: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/elections
Libraries and One Stop Shops
A fun-filled Winter of Wellbeing in your local library
Children and young people have an opportunity to take part in exciting activities in their local library and online over the next two months as Denbighshire Libraries launch their Winter of Wellbeing programme.
It’s part of a national campaign funded by the Welsh Government to help children and young people feel better at the start of 2022 after the difficult pandemic period. The fun-filled and varied programme is an opportunity for Denbighshire children to re-engage with their local library and with each other.
In partnership with Menter Iaith Sir Ddinbych, the theatre company Mewn Cymeriad has been presenting their new show based on the book ’10 Stories from Welsh History’ by Ifan Morgan Jones and many local schools have visited their local library to enjoy this special interactive show which helps children learn about their nation’s history.
Throughout March, there will be exciting art and craft workshops in libraries on Saturday mornings, with different artists offering a chance to experiment and have creative fun as a family. The workshops have been arranged by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd’s Active Communities in partnership with Denbighshire Libraries.
During half term families to take part in a crazy slightly wild online virtual Story Hunt with storyteller John Kirk.
On top of all this, there is also an exciting virtual programme arranged for the whole of Wales by libraries and the Reading Agency offering online events for children and young people featuring some very familiar faces.
To find out more and to book a place on an art and craft workshop, contact your local library or go to www.denbighshire.gov.uk/winter-of-wellbeing. For more information about the Winter of Wellbeing in Welsh libraries go to www.readingagency.org.uk/GaeafLlawnLles
New services following upgrade of public tech facilities
Libraries in Denbighshire are now offering new and upgraded services following a major investment to improve the facilities for the public to get online and to print documents.
Customers will soon be able to upload a document for printing from their mobile device or pc wherever they are, then call in to their local library to pay and collect their prints. Customers will also be able to book a PC or scanner at a library online. Computer use in a library is free of charge for library members, and a reasonable charge is made for printing.
New computers have been installed in every library, and self-service facilities for card payments for printing have also been introduced for customers at larger libraries. A new system has been installed to manage the computers and printing in order to provide a secure, customer-friendly network. Customers can choose to use the self-service kiosks and the library computers in Welsh or English.
Library staff are on hand to help customers with getting online and using the new facilities.
Bookstart Rhyme and Ramble
Babies and toddlers across Denbighshire took to the great oudoors in January when regular Bookstart Rhymetimes indoors in libraries had to be put on hold.
Families met up with the Bookstart staff to enjoy Rhymes and Rambles in some of our glorious countryside like Loggerheads, Coed y Morfa, Rhyl Events Arena, Prestatyn seafront, St Asaph Riverside, and Denbigh’s Ffordd Ystrad.
It was a great opportunity for the grown-ups to get to know each other and for the children to join in with songs and rhymes along the way.
Many parents said it had been really beneficial to their wellbeing after such a difficult time.
Rhymetimes are now back in libraries offering a warm welcome to babies and toddlers aged 0-3 and a chance to develop early language and social skills.
Tourism
Tourism Leaflets
Calling all businesses.
We provide a free tourism leaflet distribution service for businesses to order leaflets and brochures. This information is produced to encourage visitors to the area, and to enhance their experience once they are here.
Products include:
You can order from the leaflet distribution service if your business is in and around North East Wales and you come into contact with visitors and you can order online. We will arrange for our distribution company to deliver to you, free of charge.
For further information and access to the online form, please click here.
Ambassador Scheme proves popular across North Wales
A scheme providing people with training and knowledge about tourism in North Wales is proving popular.
With over 2,000 people signed up, there are over 1,350 who have become Ambassadors for at least one of the regions in Wales, including Denbighshire Tourism Ambassadors - and this continues to grow.
The Denbighshire scheme offers 12 online training modules on a variety of themes including walking, cycling, towns, history, arts, coast, Welsh language and food tourism. There are 3 levels of awards – bronze, silver and gold, depending on the number of modules completed.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Hugh Evans OBE, said: “We know continuous learning can have a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether you are looking to learn more about the area, improve job prospects or meet new people, becoming a Denbighshire Ambassador is a great way to start the year. The scheme will deepen your knowledge and understanding of the area as well as giving you the opportunity to attend events and visit some of our key sites across the county.”
Denbighshire was the first to launch an online scheme of its kind in Wales.
It is totally free and open to everyone. Residents, volunteers and local community groups are particularly encouraged to become Ambassadors to learn more about the special qualities of Denbighshire.
Resident Wendy Davies said: “After booking 2 weeks off annual leave I discovered I had to self-isolate for 7 of them. Bored with watching the television, I couldn’t concentrate on books and being as I couldn’t leave my house for my usual hobbies of walking, gym, cycling, I decided to do the online modules. I loved it. The videos and information is mind blowing, so much knowledge and information has been put into it. It really opened my eyes to looking at Denbighshire in a different light. Looking forward to moving onto gold level.”
Paul Hughes, walking group leader for the Vale of Clwyd Mind commented: “I chose to become a Denbighshire Tourism Ambassador because it gives you more information, it’s always handy to have more knowledge when you’re leading people on walks and taking people around the different areas. The course is free as well which always helps. And you can do it at home over a couple of evenings a week, so it’s brilliant. You can’t have enough knowledge as they say, it’s always nice to learn something new.”
Photo: Paul Hughes
Richard Hughes, from Bracdy Holidays in Llandyrnog and Gold Tourism Ambassador, said: “Many of our visitors to Bracdy Campsite have never stayed in the area before. They are amazed by the beauty of The Clwydian Range behind the site and the stunning views across the Vale of Clwyd. We’re here to answer questions about Denbighshire and so to improve our local knowledge we’ve become Ambassadors. We love our visitors to ask questions and we like to have the answers and with 2000 years of historic events to talk about, the wide open spaces and the bustling market towns there’s always plenty going on.”
Snowdonia National Park and Conwy County Borough Council have since launched similar schemes and Gwynedd, Flintshire, Anglesey and Pontcysyllte World Heritage Site are busy preparing to launch their schemes during 2022. Ambassadors are actively encouraged to sign up for all courses to extend their learning about North Wales and be part of a wider community.
For more information on the scheme and to sign-up please visit http://www.ambassador.wales/
Exciting new projects on their way from the Tourism Team
Denbighshire Tourism Team are working on some exciting new projects which will be launched before Easter.
The first is a new Discover Denbighshire brochure which is packed with ideas for visitors and residents alike, it will be showcasing places, people and initiatives that are off the beaten track to reduce pressure on our honeypot destinations. It is on message with the climate change emergency, championing visiting in a sustainable way as well as being printed on sustainably resourced paper and being available digitally.
If you would like to be one of the first to see the publication drop the team a line on tourism@denbighshire.gov.uk and we’ll put you on the list to receive a digital copy as soon as its published.
The other is a pilot project to produce an audio trail in Rhyl as a way to bring the popular town trails to a wider audience. The Rhyl town trail will be available as an audio trail with the voices of the people of Rhyl weaved into the walk. Promoting wellbeing and sustainability it can be listened to as you walk or indeed just as a podcast and will be available via an app to download.
The Denbighshire Tourism Forum returns face to face for 2022
The Denbighshire Tourism Forum returns to meeting face to face - the first time in over two years!!
The Forum will take place on Wednesday, 6 April at the Oriel House, Upper Denbigh Road, St Asaph, LL17 0LW from 10:30am – 1:30pm.
They have secured excellent guest speakers namely:
- Celebrating 10 years of the Wales Coast Path: Sioned Humphreys & Eve Nicholson, Wales Coast Path
- Denbighshire Urdd Eisteddfod 2022: Siân Eirian, Urdd Gobaith Cymru
- Llangollen Railway Staying on Track: Tom Taylor, Llangollen Railway Trust
This will be a great opportunity to hear about the latest tourism developments and meet other like-minded businesses.
Book your FREE place now by clicking here.
Working Denbighshire
Are you an Armed Forces Veteran living in Denbighshire?
Are you an Armed Forces Veteran living in Denbighshire?
Need support with accessing Employment, Education and Training?
Then Working Denbighshire are here for you!
Working Denbighshire offers veterans expert advice, guidance and support to help remove the barriers hindering them in obtaining a brighter future.
All their services are free of charge!
They also signpost to a wide range of other services that support veterans, such as mental health services and support groups.
You can contact them on 01745 331438 or e-mail them at workingdenbighshire@denbighshire.gov.uk or you can self-refer at www.working.denbighshire.gov.uk.
Support available for Denbighshire residents looking for work
Denbighshire residents who are struggling to secure a job, can apply for free support through the Council's Working Denbighshire team.
Working Denbighshire has been in place since 2018 to help tackle poverty through employment.
The service aims to support individuals by providing access to a network of services to provide career opportunities and develop resilient communities around the county.
Over 300 Working Denbighshire participants have already secured a job through the scheme and over 100 participants have already completed a placement of their choice.
Some of the more typical elements of support Working Denbighshire provides are:
- Job searches, CV writing, interview skills/ techniques and completing job applications
- Confidence building, motivational and wellbeing support
- Support in finding work and volunteering placements as well as training opportunities
- Training to learn new skills and gain qualifications
- Funding to help support with courses, transport, clothing or anything else which may be holding you back (subject to approval).
Councillor Bobby Feeley, Denbighshire’s Lead Member for Well-being and Independence, said: “This proactive approach to improve employment gaps has been put in place to tackle poverty throughout the county.
“It is important that we continue to support our people’s future and provide them with the best possible opportunities.
“By removing barriers and providing this service of support, we are providing individuals with a greater chance of obtaining a job in their chosen career. I would encourage anyone struggling to secure a job to sign up to this service and make great use of the benefits being offered.”
The service has organised free events in libraries across the county to give anyone interested an opportunity to speak with a Working Denbighshire mentor face to face.
Events will take place on Thursday 3rd March and Friday 11th March.
To find an event near you, visit our website or to apply for support fill out the Working Denbighshire referral form via https://working.denbighshire.gov.uk/
New Project for 16-35 year olds in Denbighshire
Project Ready is a pilot project funded by the UK Community Renewal Fund. It aims to demonstrate viable model for replacing the ADTRAC project which closed in March 2021. This innovative approach aims to bring together expertise traditionally associated with both youth services and adult employability projects to form a new cohesive approach for an extended 16-35 year old cohort who are unemployed or economically inactive.
The project will establish a multi-agency team to join up a variety of services around individuals aged 16-35 to address the variety of barriers to employment, raise aspiration, increase motivation and engagement with the labour market or the mainstream DWP employment programmes.
The activities delivered will be:
Engagement – Advertising the project, working with partners to identify potential participants and then working with the individual to inspire them to participant in the project.
Assessment and Planning – working with individuals to identify their current strengths and weaknesses and the barriers they face. Building on this knowledge to coproduce an agreed plan for change. This process will be utilise the new Here2There app to digitally connect participants and staff.
One to One support – offers individual support to build confidence and break down the barriers to find employment or access training. Including confidence and motivation building activities, accessing specific training, IT support, help to fill in application forms for employment or college etc. One to one support provides the motivation and drive to help the individual to reach their goals.
Specialist Advice and Support – The project will include homelessness support and homeless prevention from a specialist advisor embedded in the county’s Homeless Prevention team and specialist benefits and debt management advice from Citizens Advice. Where appropriate we will also sign-post to free counselling services and commission specialist counselling to support those with mental health barriers based on their individual needs.
Work Related Education and Personal and Social Skills Training - available at level 1 and level 2 CQFW. Delivered by the project and accredited by Agored Cymru. Units will focus on confidence, motivation, team work, CVs and interview techniques.
Basic Skills – Delivered by Adult Learning Wales and other providers with support from project staff.
Group Activities – Wellbeing and motivational activities will be commissioned from local providers or delivered directly by project staff, with the selection of activities delivered tailored to the cohort’s preferences and requirements. We have already investigated possibilities with a range of local providers and selections will be drawn from:
- Film, Social Media and digital design activities
- Woodland skills and outdoor activities
- Healthy eating, healthy mind and active lifestyle activities
- Sporting activities
Working Denbighshire Roadshow
Joe's Story: Overcoming alcoholism, mental health issues and homelessness
Abi's Story
Climate Change and Biodiversity
Wetlands project sees first feathered guests arrive
A makeover of a Denbighshire wetland is already providing popular with feathered visitors.
The Council has worked in partnership with Balfour Beatty to develop land at the Morfa, a 35-acre wetland in Prestatyn.
Three ponds have been created at the site opposite the Morfa Woods with the aim to protect and support local biodiversity, invertebrates, mammals, birds and plant life.
And the new-look site has already been visited recently by Egrets and Mallards.
Balfour Beatty, who worked on Rhyl East Flood Defence Scheme, provided support as part of their commitment with the Council in providing local community benefits.
And contractor Arwyn Parry dug out and profiled the ponds on site.
Welsh Government via their ENRaW grant scheme contributed towards the actual purchase of the land and to develop it as an important wetland resource over a three year period.
The land had previously been in private ownership
Councillor Tony Thomas, the Council’s Lead Member for Housing and Communities, said: “We are grateful for all the work on this site by everyone involved. It is good to hear that already the work is playing its part in attracting wildlife to the area
“We do hope that this site becomes a firm fixture in the local community and we also welcome support from nearby residents who want to get involved in managing the wetlands. For example, we have already run volunteer events to help with seeding, surveying the ponds and looking for what animals may take up residence in the new look landscape.
“We also would welcome support for a survey of our sustainable grazing project involving Belted Galloway cattle who are helping us to manage the landscape by keeping the grass length down.”
A wooden viewing platform already in place on the site boundary is soon to be joined by two others to provide wide views of the wetland life.
Plans are also in motion to clear a series of draining channels on the site to help support local Water Voles by bringing back a natural habitat for the endangered species.
The wetland also sits next to the Prestatyn gutter and forms a natural sink during times of high rainfall, acting as an important flood defence. As the site returns to its natural form, without all the current vegetation, its water storage capacity will increase.
Pilot produces thousands of green miles for taxi travel
A pilot taxi scheme has provided thousands of ‘green’ miles for drivers and passengers since starting last Autumn.
Denbighshire is hosting the only North Wales pilot of the zero emission green taxi scheme.
The Welsh Government, who are funding the scheme, recently set a goal of de-carbonising the taxi fleet entirely by 2028.
The Council is one of a select few local authorities in Wales taking part in the pilot.
Twenty-eight taxi drivers have stepped behind the wheel of four wheelchair-accessible Nissan Dynamo E-NV200 taxis to use as part of the “try before you buy scheme” which began in September 2021.
The pilot allows hackney licensed taxi drivers to try the vehicle free of charge for 30 days, including free electric charging at specific locations in the county, vehicle licensing, breakdown cover and insurance.
Over a 16-week period from launch until January 20, the vehicles covered 15,501 zero emission miles across the county, providing an average of 969 zero emission miles each week.
The taxis have also operated across Prestatyn, Rhyl, Bodelwyddan, St Asaph, Denbigh, Ruthin and Corwen.
Councillor Brian Jones, Lead Member for Waste, Transport and the Environment, said: “It is great to see the number of taxi operators who have stepped up to try out these greener zero emission vehicles and find out about the benefits they also bring.
“The feedback we have received has been positive from both drivers and passengers. The taxis have been used mainly on home to school transport contracts morning and afternoon on most term days with great input from the children with some saying ‘it’s like travelling in a spaceship’ whilst riding in the vehicles.
“This is one of a number of projects we are running on electric vehicles as a Council which will help create healthier surroundings and reduce carbon emissions across the county.”
Following feedback from the drivers participating in the pilot, the Council is looking into extending the scheme with the offer of a vehicle capable of delivering 300 plus miles on a single charge.
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Video on Coppicing
Countryside have put together a short video as a quick insight into what coppicing entails.
Airlift support flies in new-look moor path
A Helicopter has given a much needed lift to work on a key section of one of Wales’ most popular paths.
Contractors working for the Clwydian Range & Dee Valley AONB have been busy repairing a key section of the Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail as it crosses Ruabon Moor.
As part of the project, over 250 tonnes of reclaimed stone flags were airlifted onto the moor.
A helicopter was used to lift in materials to this remote site as an alternative to vehicles, which would have had far more damaging impact upon the fragile habitats found at the moor.
Making Trax, specialist contractors with over 30 years of experience in undertaking high quality access works in remote, sensitive areas undertook the improvement works.
The AONB managed to secure funding for the work through Natural Resources Wales who oversee the management of the Welsh National Trails.
Small sections of the Trail have been upgraded each year since 2016, but with this additional funding over 850 metres of path has been resurfaced to complete the 1.4km of path across the moor.
Rhun Jones, a Countryside Ranger based in the Dee Valley, said: "In the early 1990’s, reclaimed railway sleepers were installed here to provide users with safe passage over this sensitive habitat. Being a remote Welsh moorland at around 1500 feet, the area gets plenty of rain. This, coupled with the peaty, boggy ground, made navigating the Trail quite a task.
“The sleepers which currently make up the majority of this section of the National Trail, have started to rot and have passed their sell-by date. By replacing them with stone flags, we will lay down a more sustainable and natural walking surface, which will benefit users of the Offa’s Dyke National Path for years to come."
Councillor Tony Thomas, Lead Member for Housing and Communities and the Chair of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB Joint Committee, added: "This is a fantastic project that will significantly benefit users of the Offa’s Dyke Path National Trail as it crosses this important moorland which is internationally renowned for its wildlife. It is home to over 70 percent of the Welsh Black grouse population and species such as curlew and red grouse thrive here too.
“By providing a flagged stone path, befitting of a National Trail, the area's many visitors will be able to enjoy this dramatic landscape safe in the knowledge that they will not be damaging the precious moorland. Not only that, its fragile soils will be better placed to play a key role to help us through absorbing and storing more carbon."
Countryside Services
Great Crested Newts
Great Crested Newts - our largest of the UK’s native newts, so named for the impressive crest of the male during breeding season. What is not so impressive is the sharp decline that is being seen in numbers of this European Protected Species. Sadly, this has been reflected within the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty by the staff who conduct annual surveys under license, using the recorded data to monitor population trends.
It is estimated that in Britain we lost over 50% of the breeding population of Great Crested Newts in the 1960s and that we continue to lose 2% of the remaining population every five years. Fortunately for us in North East Wales, we are a potential stronghold with the privilege and the opportunity to do what we can for the species. How? You may ask.
The Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB is home to a great diversity safe havens for nature. All of these habitat types are vitally important in supporting our native flora and fauna but one particularly wonderful habitat that the AONB plays host to is that of ponds.
Tucked away in forests, on the top of hills or even those found in your gardens, the freshwater habitat of a pond supports a wealth of species, including our native newts. Like many of our habitats though, the number of ponds, especially those in a good condition, is in decline. As part of the winter works programme, the AONB team has been working with landowners and contractors to tackle the issue.
In pond habitats, in as little as 2 years, vegetation can grow and shade out other plant species that we want to encourage for their diversity. The opportunistic plants also drop their dead organic matter into the pond, resulting in a build-up of ‘silt’ in the pond area and ultimately reducing the suitability of the pond for many species of wildlife.
This is not to say that all ponds should be deep non-vegetated water. Great Crested Newts lay their eggs in aquatic vegetation so require there to be vegetated margins. A mosaic of habitat types is instead promoted by including vegetation and deep and shallow water areas to cater for as many species as possible.
To achieve this mosaic, when the silt material is removed from the bottom of the pond, some deep water areas are de-silted extensively and in others only the very top of the soil is removed in a shallow scrape. This sort of scrape can create a useful seasonal pond that may dry up, or an area of water perfect as a nursery for some species to lay their eggs. Once it is removed the silt is first placed on the banks of the pond and left, allowing anything that is hiding in it or the surrounding vegetation to escape back into the pond. The silt can then be used to landscape the area, creating additional small bodies of water and hibernacula for Great Crested Newts to hibernate in through the winter months.
Key to the success of these pond works for the benefit of our Great Crested Newts and other pond dwelling species though, is connectivity. That network of ponds and small water bodies that allow the free movement of these species between populations. Isolation is detrimental to most populations so this ongoing project has been about restoring and creating ponds in a mosaic pattern – some old, some new and all variations in between but, ultimately, all as connected as possible.
When it comes to pond works the work truly is never done, but the ongoing reward of seeing a pond restored to a blank canvas for nature to take over is wonderful. The next chapter will be waiting with baited breath to see which species decide to call these ponds home!
Corporate Plan
Empty homes matching service for Denbighshire
Empty home owners can take advantage of a free matching service with potential developers.
The Council is running a matching service to put empty property owners in touch with potential investors to increase the chances of the property being transformed into a home. There are potential investors ready to take forward opportunities.
It is part of the Council’s work under its Corporate Plan to reduce the number of empty properties in the county and to create more housing for residents.
Councillor Tony Thomas, the Council’s Lead Member for Housing and Communities, said: “The Council has been working hard to ensure that empty properties are brought back into the market and can be used as homes for residents.
“Selling a property through this scheme can save empty home owners money on estate agency fees and Council Tax, if the property has been empty for more than six months, as well as ongoing maintenance costs of the property.
“There are a number of property developers who are signed up to the scheme and who are looking for opportunities throughout Denbighshire.”
If you are an empty home owner looking to sell your property or a potential investor please get in touch at strategichousing@denbighshire.gov.uk and we will provide you with further information
Innovation grows support to improve county environment
New life has been breathed into Denbighshire’s natural surroundings thanks to an innovative and forward thinking approach.
The Council has helped deliver the planting of over 18,000 trees, the reduction of coastal flooding for 1,650 properties and the enhancement of biodiversity in the County, with 60 sites being managed to create wildflower meadows.
The Council’s Corporate Plan 2017-22 included a focus on the preservation of the natural environment and also paid particular attention to maintaining and enhancing biodiversity within the county.
The Council also declared a Climate Change and Ecological Emergency in July 2019 and committed to seeking to become a Net Carbon Zero and Ecologically Positive Council by 2030.
Managed wildflower meadows include highway verges, footpath edges, cycleways and amenity grasslands, and along with 11 roadside nature reserves, equate to about 30 football pitches worth of grassland.
As well as protecting wildflowers, the meadows are also boosting habitat available for our declining native insects. The project has also been funded by Welsh Government, through the Local Nature Partnerships Cymru ENRaW project.
In 2018 the Council also gained Bee Friendly status from the Welsh Government, a scheme which aims to make Wales a pollinator-friendly country.
A local provenance tree nursery has recently been set up at Green Gates farm on the edge of St Asaph, aiming to produce 5,000 trees and 5,000 native wildflower plants a year, with the hope to expand in the future.
The site features a newly planted species rich hedge, a large native wildflower meadow, and a great crested newt hibernaculum designed to support local wildlife. It also contains a rain garden and large wildlife pond, installed as part of a sustainable drainage system designed to boost biodiversity and reduce flooding.
Councillor Tony Thomas, the Council’s lead member for Housing and Communities, said: “The Wildflower Meadows project plays an important part in our commitment to biodiversity and supporting the preservation of native flowers and insect population across the county.
“We are really grateful to the support given by all volunteers towards the project and the work of staff in helping it grow strong.
“We are also proud to have established such an important facility at St Asaph which will assist us in maintain the improvement of our local environment.”
The Green Infrastructure project, funded through the Welsh Government Project Transforming Towns funding, has developed and improved green spaces in and around Rhyl town centre, to create new habitats, and provide ‘green corridors’ linking the town centre to biodiversity rich areas such as Brickfields Ponds, Rhyl Cut and Glan Morfa.
The Council has worked with Balfour Beatty to develop land at the Morfa, a 35-acre wetland in Prestatyn. Three ponds were created at the site opposite the Morfa Woods with the aim to protect and support local biodiversity, invertebrates, mammals, birds and plant life. And the new-look site has already been visited by Egrets and Mallards.
The East Rhyl Coastal Defence Scheme, a £27million project funded by the Welsh Government and Denbighshire County Council, also commenced in April 2020 to protect 1,650 properties in East Rhyl from coastal flooding.
The Council has also secured £1million of Welsh Government grant to carry out natural flood management work in the county. In addition, we’ve received around £4million of Welsh Government grant to develop a business case for potential coastal defence schemes at Central Rhyl and Central Prestatyn, which if constructed would protect a further 2,800 properties.
To tackle the county’s carbon footprint, an Electric Vehicle Public Charging Pilot has been developed. This will provide fast charging points in eight public car parks across Denbighshire for use by the public and support the transition for people to an electric car.
Denbighshire is also hosting the only North Wales pilot of a Welsh Government funded zero emission green taxi scheme. The project has four Nissan e-NV200 Dynamo pure electric Hackney licensed carriages available to all Denbighshire dual licensed taxi drivers (subject to meeting criteria).
We currently have 13 all electric vehicles in the fleet with seven twin port chargers to support re-fuelling. These are a mix of small to medium vans and support service delivery from Highways and Environment to ICT and Housing services.
There are plans to substantially increase the percentage of zero emission vehicles within our fleet with 8 vehicles already ordered from manufacturers and several more planned. These include two electric refuse collection vehicles to support our recycling team, a five seater electric car to support the homelessness team and an all-electric all-terrain vehicle for use in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) at Loggerheads.
A green project delivered at Ysgol Dinas Bran and Llangollen Leisure Centre has seen a 150Kw array of solar panels installed on the school roof which will generate electricity for the school onsite using the sun’s energy.
Other work includes heating control upgrades and LED lighting. The project is expected to reduce the school’s carbon emissions by 73 tonnes per year.
Councillor Brian Jones the Council’s Lead Member for Waste, Transport and the Environment, said: “We are proud to see the commitment and dedication to delivering our aim to become a Net Carbon Zero and Ecologically Positive Council by 2030 through fantastic projects already completed and ongoing.
“Going forward as climate change becomes even more important, we will continue to work hard to ensure the Council is maintaining the reduction of its carbon footprint and increasing biodiversity in the county.”
You can find out more about the Corporate Plan 2012-2022 here www.denbighshire.gov.uk/corporate-plan-ambition-achievements
Have your say in developing our new Corporate Plan 2022 to 2027
Partners across Conwy and Denbighshire have worked together to produce a draft Well-being Assessment which is now live, please visit the Conwy and Denbighshire PSB Website to have a look and to find out more.
The draft Well-being Assessment has been informed by engagement with our residents and stakeholders and also uses other information such as data, evidence and research. It captures the strengths and assets of the people and their communities, outlining what is important to people and communities in Conwy and Denbighshire in terms of well-being, now and in the future.
Every five years, the Council has to produce something called a 'Corporate Plan'. This plan gives the Council focus and helps all of the Council's services to work together, to plan and achieve specific goals.
The Council have considered what the Well-being Assessment data told us and listened to the feedback from our residents to determine the focus for our Corporate Plan 2022 to 2027.
The themes identified were:
- Housing
- Economy
- Young People
- Connected Communities
- Environment and Climate
- Addressing Deprivation
- A well-run, high performing Council
We would now like to know what you think by completing the online survey to let us know if you think our new themes will help to make Denbighshire a better place to live, work in and visit >>> https://countyconversation.denbighshire.gov.uk/project/662
If you cannot complete the survey electronically, paper copies of the survey are available on request in all Denbighshire Libraries and can be returned to the Libraries or posted to the Strategic Planning and Performance Team, Denbighshire County Council, PO Box 62, Ruthin, LL15 9AZ or you can e-mail them at strategicplanningteam@denbighshire.gov.uk. You can also give them a ring on 01824 706291.
The closing date for all responses is 11th March 2022.
Innovation brings us closer together
Connections between communities are stronger thanks to the roll out of innovative work on creating a new, accessible website.
Ninety-one percent of all our roads are now covered by a provider with a 4G mobile network and we have upgraded and improved public access technology facilities in all of our eight libraries.
The Council’s Corporate Plan 2017-22 included a strong focus on making sure that communities are connected and have access to goods and services locally, online and through good transport links.
Councillor Hugh Evans OBE, leader of Denbighshire County Council and Lead Member for the Economy said: “As a council, we recognised the importance of staying connected. This meant investing in the technologies that will keep our communities connected in the long-term, which is why we work with partners such as the Welsh Government's Superfast Cymru project.
Councillor Richard Mainon, Lead Member for Corporate Services and Transition, added: “The development of our website ensured that Council information and services will be accessible online where possible. We introduced new accessible website document templates in October 2019 to ensure that online documents are accessible and can be used by as many people as possible.”
From 2019 to 2020 the Council saw an increase from 38 percent to 46 percent of transactions undertaken via the web compared to the total number of transactions undertaken using all access channels.
During the first lockdown in 2020, between April and June online transactions increased to 52 percent, following work to increase available transactional services on our website to ensure that residents continued to benefit from the access that was no longer physically available.
All Denbighshire libraries now have dedicated solo digital spaces which provide connectivity and privacy for users to participate in online meetings, training or job interviews and staff support if needed.
A programme of upgrading and improving the public access technology facilities in all Denbighshire libraries started in 2021.
The project will see new public access computers installed, a new PC management system, self-service printing, an online booking system and printing via Wi-Fi.
The Council has also worked to improve digital communications with friends and family for care home residents.
The infrastructure at Cysgod y Gaer was updated to superfast broadband with download speeds of 65mb, allowing for greater use of smart devices for the residents at the home to stay in touch with loved ones and friends. Other Care homes in Denbighshire with limited connectivity had Wi-Fi boosters installed to help residents access a device throughout the home to attend online groups, see family and allow private G.P appointments to continue during isolation.
IPads, Alexas and Portal devices are now being widely used by residents, and staff have been trained to offer support with the new technology.
The Council teamed up with Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council and Digital Communities Wales and Denbighshire County Council to launch a new digital volunteering scheme in Denbighshire to help those that need assistance with digital technology. Denbighshire Digital Buddies aimed to support people who are not as confident in using tablets and smartphones and help them acquire those invaluable digital skills.
To connect residents closer to job opportunities, Working Denbighshire are also developing a Virtual Reality tool to create interactive interview scenarios designed to help improve the confidence and knowledge of those applying for jobs.
A one-purchase ticket valid on buses across North Wales was officially launched at Rhyl Events Arena in 2021. The launch of the 1Bws ticket was attended by bus operators from across North Wales as well as invited guests from Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey and Wrexham councils, Senedd members and officers from Transport for Wales.
One ticket is valid all day on buses in Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey and Wrexham and on buses from North Wales to Chester, Whitchurch and Machynlleth.
Councillor Brian Jones, the Council’s Lead Member for Waste, Transport and the Environment, said: “We were proud to support this initiative, which helped encourage local people and visitors alike to use our extensive bus network.
“This was a great opportunity to get people back on buses and open up North Wales in a way that protects the environment as well.
“We have a strong partnership that exists between bus operators and local authorities which allows us to keep on working together on initiatives like this to better connect our communities.
You can find out more about the Corporate Plan 2012-2022 on our website.
Urdd Eisteddfod
Denbighshire Urdd National Eisteddfod
30 May – 4 June 2022
The Urdd Eisteddfod is coming to Denbighshire! Did you know that entry to the festival will be free, in celebration of the Urdd’s centenary year?
The Urdd Eisteddfod takes place during May half term, between 30 May – 4 June, on the fields of Kilford Farm on the outskirts of Denbigh. It will be the largest national youth arts festival held in Wales since the beginning of the pandemic.
To celebrate the special occasion, a brand-new festival will also be held on the Eisteddfod site – Triban Festival – to celebrate the best of Welsh music and culture. This is your invitation to join us for the Urdd’s big centenary reunion on the weekend of 2-4 June!
Important Eisteddfod dates for the diary:
10 March: Release date of entry tickets to the Urdd National Eisteddfod.
5 April: Closing date for Arts and Craft Competitions.
30 May – 4 June: Denbighshire Urdd National Eisteddfod, with Triban Festival on weekend of 2-4 June.
Due to the current guidelines regarding Covid-19, local and regional Eisteddfodau will be held in the spring but without audiences. It has also been decided that all those competing in stage competitions in the 19- and 25-year-old category will go straight through to the Eisteddfod in Denbigh. Further information regarding the local and regional competition rounds is available on the Urdd Eisteddfod website (urdd.cymru/eisteddfod).
To become an Urdd member and to register to compete at the Eisteddfod, go to urdd.cymru/porth
Urdd Officers in your area:
Ioan Rees, Denbighshire Eisteddfod Project Officer (ioanrees@urdd.org)
Swyn Williams, Denbighshire Youth Officer (swyn@urdd.org)
Rhodd-Alaw Parry, Senior Sports Development Officer (chwaraeondinbych@urdd.org)
Flag to celebrate Urdd’s 100th birthday
A flag celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Urdd has been flown by the Council.
The flag was flown at County Hall, Ruthin, on January 25, to mark 100 years since the formation of the Urdd, the Welsh language organisation founded by Sir Ifan ab Owen Edwards, which provides unique and exciting experiences for young people aged 8 to 25 years to learn and socialise.
Denbighshire is hosting the Urdd National Eisteddfod this year in Kilford Farm, Denbigh, between May 30 and June 4 and entry to the Maes will be free of charge for those wishing to attend.
Councillor Alan James, Chair of the Council, said: “On behalf of the Council I would like to wish Penblwydd Hapus to the Urdd on its 100th anniversary.
“The Urdd has provided countless opportunities through the medium of Welsh for generations of people in Wales and we are proud to be able to join in the celebrations by raising this flag and showing our support.
“As a Council we are looking forward to welcoming the Urdd National Eisteddfod this year for what will be a very special event.”
Councillor Hugh Evans OBE, Leader of the Council, said: “This is a special moment in the history of the Urdd and we are delighted to be hosting the Urdd National Eisteddfod in Denbighshire in its 100th year.
“It will be a chance to join together and celebrate the organisation’s centenary after what has been a difficult period during the pandemic.
“Free entry will give as many people as possible the chance to come and see our talented youngsters perform at the very highest level and I would encourage everyone to take up this offer and experience Welsh culture at its best.”
For more information visit www.urdd.cymru/en/eisteddfod/
From left, Graham Boase, Chief Executive; Cllr Alan James, Chair; Cllr Hugh Evans OBE, Leader of the Council
Denbighshire Housing
Llwyn Eirin, Denbigh
We're almost 8 months into our first new housing development, Llwyn Eirin in Denbigh!
Here is a short video of how things are coming along!
For more information visit www.denbighshirehousing.co.uk/LlwynEirin
Council helps create more homes in Denbighshire
More than 1,000 additional homes have been created or brought back into use in the past five years in Denbighshire.
The Council has helped deliver 394 affordable homes, worked in partnership to develop two extra care facilities providing more than 100 homes, delivered 34 additional council homes while 695 empty homes in the private sector have been brought back into use.
Additional properties have been provided in communities right across Denbighshire - including Rhyl, Prestatyn, Dyserth, Rhuddlan, Cefn Meiriadog, Trefnant, Meliden, Denbigh, Ruthin, Gellifor, Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd, Llangollen, Corwen and Llandrillo – including the first brand new council homes to be designed and built for the Denbighshire area in 30 years.
The Council’s work was carried out under the Housing priority as part of its Corporate Plan 2017-2022, which set the direction and ambitions for the authority for the past five years.
Councillor Tony Thomas, the Council’s Lead Member for Housing and Communities, said: “The Council has carried out a wide range of work on improving and creating housing for the needs of our residents.
“We set ourselves ambitious targets under our Housing priority and we have exceeded many of these, helping to ensure there are more homes across the county for our residents.
“As a Council we recognise the need to ensure housing is available to meet the needs of Denbighshire residents, and affordable housing is an essential part of this, so we can retain and attract young people to live in the area.
“The affordable housing created is a mix of social housing, intermediate rental, and home ownership through shared equity, rent to own options and private developments.”
Two extra care facilities have been developed in partnership with Grwp Cynefin at Awel y Dyffryn, Denbigh, opening in February this year, and Llys Awelon, Ruthin, due to open next year.
These developments will see 70 extra self-contained homes in Denbigh and 35 in Ruthin which give residents a balance between living at home and having on-site, dedicated care available if needed.
A total of 34 additional council homes have been delivered since 2017 and this includes new builds, conversions and the purchase of properties.
Further developments of new energy-efficient council homes are underway in Denbigh, Dyserth and Prestatyn with 45 new properties due to be completed this year, with work starting on a further 59 new council homes during 2022.
The Council has made a number of improvements to the homes of council tenants which includes installing 1,100 new heating systems, 465 new roofs, 325 new windows, 125 air source heat pumps, 775 kitchens and bathrooms while 2,550 properties have also been externally painted.
Nearly £2million has been invested on neighbourhood improvements for council tenants, including 17 new play areas.
Other work as part of the Housing priority included the successful resettlement of 20 Syrian families under the UK Resettlement Scheme.
The Council has contacted owners of empty homes and helped encourage renovation or matched them with developers, with a view to bringing them back into use on the housing market.
A total of 695 empty homes have been brought back into use to date, exceeding the Council’s target of 500 between 2017 and 2022.
The Council has launched its Housing & Homelessness Strategy to co-ordinate its work to ensure everyone is supported with pride to live in homes that meet their needs and to end homelessness in Denbighshire.
The aims of the strategy include providing more housing, ensuring housing is of good quality, supporting people with their housing issues, addressing homelessness and supporting communities.
This includes developing our approach to homelessness by providing even more of our own emergency and temporary accommodation with onsite support and renewing the focus on early intervention to prevent homelessness, with a model of rapid rehousing at its heart.
Councillor Julian Thompson-Hill, Lead Member for Finance, Performance and Strategic Assets, said: “Supporting the creation of so many new homes has taken a considerable amount of work to achieve and has involved sound financial planning. We have taken advantage of a wide range of funding grants and affordable homes have been built by private developers and in partnership with Welsh Government and registered social landlords, with the Council managing the Social Housing Grant programme, which has enabled the building of the majority of affordable homes in the county.
“We will be continuing to build on this success and provide more affordable homes in our communities which is part of our ongoing work to retain more young people in Denbighshire as well as ensuring there is adequate housing for the needs of all our residents.”
You can find out more about the Corporate Plan 2017-2022 here www.denbighshire.gov.uk/corporate-plan-ambition-achievements