Rare UK tree species receives new lifeline in Denbighshire

A rare UK tree has received a new lifeline in Denbighshire following the results of a four year long project to help protect the species.

The Councils Biodiversity Team have confirmed through genetic testing that they have managed to grow native Black Poplar trees from seed.

Work took place at the Council’s Tree Nursery based near St Asaph which has been funded by the Welsh Government, through the Local Nature Partnerships Cymru ENRaW project and Local Places for Nature grant.

A local provenance approach is used to source seeds for growing at St Asaph until the trees are ready to be planted on local land. Work carried out includes a mix of preserving and boosting core tree species such as oaks and whilst also lending a supporting hand for conserving rarer trees such as the wild service tree and now, with exciting results - the black poplar.

Black Poplars, although very rare in Denbighshire are native to the ecology of the county’s riverbanks and floodplains. They can be found scattered along the Vale of Clwyd, and can be recognised from their dark fissured bark, leaning trunks, and downward curved branches.

Mature trees grow to 30 metres and can live for 200 years. They are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees.

Black Poplars are thought to have decreased in numbers due to habitat loss from drainage and canalisation of riverbanks, the removal of female trees and their “unsightly” fluffy seeds, and a decrease in demand for their timber as faster growing hybrid poplars were introduced. Centuries ago, Black Poplar wood was used in buildings and various products (poplar wood is heat resistant and used for wagon brake blocks) until the construction industry turned to non-native trees and interest in native black poplar dwindled.

The Biodiversity Team worked to pollinate from surviving males at one Denbighshire location with a female in another part of the county and another male also cross the border in Conwy.

Senior Biodiversity Officer Liam Blazey explained: “The project has been over four years in the making from researching the location of suitable Black Poplar trees to the process the team put in place at the tree nursery to grow more of the rare trees.”

“We are really excited to have grown true native black poplar trees from seed and most importantly the methodology we used to do this has worked as hoped

“The methodology worked by carrying out controlled pollination between selected males and selected females. This has produced viable native Black Poplars and that’s really good news for us and for the species.”

Liam explained the results were sent to Forest Research, Forest Genetics Lab who carried out a DNA fingerprinting test to determine if the work was a success. The results came back positive for all of the randomly selected trees, with the results showing the respective genetic contribution from the expected mother and father. 

He said: “The majority of black poplar propagation in recent history has been via taking vegetative cuttings, meaning the same individual and hence genetics is copied many times.

“The fact is we have grown Black Poplars from seed is really nice because it introduces new genetic combinations and hence more resilience to the next generation of black poplars.”

The Council’s Biodiversity Team’s next step in the ongoing work to protect the black poplar will be to collaborate with other groups interested in this rare and iconic tree.

Liam added: “We can’t keep going back to the same female as we may end up with genetic issues down the line, as all the seedlings will be brothers or sisters with the same mother. Going forward we hope to start conversations with other local groups that know of other female Black Poplars, share our methodology and go forward from there and spread out the genes we have here in the natives we have grown. “

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “We are very proud of our Biodiversity team for breathing life into this project to boost Black Poplar species in the county. It is scarce right across the UK and the team’s fantastic efforts will give the tree a chance to thrive once more in Denbighshire.”

Council’s Street Lighting team recognised nationally for frontline work

Denbighshire County Council’s Street Lighting team has been highlighted for its provision of frontline work through an annual national awards event.

The Service has been shortlisted in two categories for the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) Performance Networks 2025 Awards within the Best and Most Improved Performer categories.

Across the county, the team maintains 11,763 streetlights and 1,547 illuminated signs and bollards to provide safety and support the wellbeing of residents.

APSE is one of the UK’s top benchmarking agencies which works with over 200 councils across the UK.

The Street Lighting service provides service data annually which is then measured against other similar data entries from across the UK which includes staff training, development and attendance, service performance, financial standing and service value for money and general service delivery and management of the service.

APSE is committed to highlighting excellence in the delivery of frontline services to local communities and have shortlisted the Street Lighting service in the APSE Performance Networks Awards for Best Performer in Street Lighting and Most Improved Performer in Street Lighting.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead member for Environment and Transport, said: “We are proud that our fantastic Street Lighting staff have been recognised for their hard work and commitment for keeping our street lighting on to protect and help residents across Denbighshire.

“I know they go the extra mile to make sure that the lights stay on every day through their dedication, and they should all be proud themselves of this recognition.”

This year’s Performance Networks Seminar and Awards Ceremony will take place on Thursday 4 and Friday 5 December 2025 at the Village Hotel, Blackpool.

Council’s Adult Social Services praised in CIW report

In a recent Performance Evaluation Inspection Report released by the Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW), Denbighshire County Council’s Adult Social Services was praised for its “positive culture within the service” with an “excellent focus on staff wellbeing”, recognising that “practitioners are skilled, innovative, and committed to people they support.”

The CIW undertook the inspection between the 8^th-12^th of September 2025, to review the local authority’s performance in exercising its social services duties and functions in line with legislation.

The summary of inspection findings praised the Council’s Adult Social Services’ leadership approach, stating that “leaders are experienced, provide stability of leadership and know their service very well” and that “practitioners describe them as visible, approachable, and supportive.”

The inspection focused on four main points, People - voice and control, Prevention, Well-being and Partnerships.

The summary of inspection findings also found that “there is a strong learning culture with opportunities to attend training, and to benefit from reflective practice.”

The services’ focus on staff wellbeing was described as “excellent” with the report stating that “practitioners and leaders are supported through regular formal and informal supervision” and that “necessary adaptations are undertaken to promote personal and professional needs.”

Preventative and safeguarding practices were also highlighted within the report, which said that “the local authority offers a strong range of preventative services” and that “safeguarding practices are robust and follow Wales Safeguarding Procedures.”

The safeguarding team was described as “approachable” and “well-supported” and this included the “dedicated expertise at SPoA (Single Point of Access) to aid front-door decision-making.” The safeguarding team was described to have “clear and robust procedures for considering and responding to safeguarding concerns, working in collaboration with different teams in the service as well as with partner agencies and providers.”

The Services’ collaboration with other key services was also highlighted within the report, which stated that “there is strong operational and strategic collaboration across health, social care, and partner agencies, supported by co-located teams such as Community Resource Teams (CRTs) and the complex disabilities team.”

It also said that the “positive joint working with police and homelessness services contributes to improved outcomes” and that “the local authority plays an active role in regional safeguarding and strategic planning”. Further to this, the report said that “there is good partnership working across teams to promote people’s social care and housing needs.”

The local authority was praised for its exploration of “innovative, cost-effective approaches that improve outcomes for people” and the report highlighted the implementation of the 'Turn Only Once' model as an example of this.

Councillor Elen Heaton, Lead Member for Health and Social Care said:

“It is really positive to see CIW recognise what so many of us already know: our ASCH teams lead with compassion, commitment and a genuine people-first approach. Over the past few years our teams have faced huge pressures, yet they continue to show extraordinary dedication to the people they support.

We know there will always be areas where we want to learn, improve and adapt, which is why it means a great deal to see the hard work to transform these services noticed in this report. I would like to thank our staff and our partners for everything they do each day to support people across Denbighshire.”

Curlew Conservation Sees Signs of Progress in Denbighshire

A collaborative conservation project aimed at protecting one of Wales’ most threatened bird species has brought small but significant signs of progress this season.

For the past two years, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscapes has been part of “Curlew Connections Wales,” a Curlew Recovery Wales partnership project working alongside Bannau Brycheiniog and the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT). This initiative forms part of the wider Gylfinir Cymru programme, an all-Wales partnership dedicated to supporting breeding Curlew populations across the country, including in Denbighshire.

Curlews are currently ‘Red Listed’ on both the Welsh and UK Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC), reflecting their severe decline. Since the 1990s, Wales has seen an estimated 80% drop in its breeding Curlew population, largely due to habitat loss, disturbance during nesting, and predation.

In response, targeted conservation efforts have been underway across Important Curlew Area 5 (ICA5), which spans large parts of Denbighshire, Flintshire, and Wrexham. This work is supported by Welsh Government funding through the Heritage Lottery Fund.

This season, the project team welcomed a modest but meaningful success: six Curlew chicks successfully fledged in the Denbighshire area, a significant improvement on the previous year.

Local Curlew and People Officer Sam Kenyon, who has led the project for the past two seasons, recognised the practical support that made the season’s success possible

“We recorded approximately 38 breeding pairs this year and were able to install electric fencing around more than 10 nests to reduce the risk of predation, with further protection measures in place around a total of 21 pairs. Thanks to the combined efforts of farmers, volunteers, and a professional protective team, six chicks made it to fledging, a real boost for our local Curlew population.”

Sam highlighted the vital role of landowners: “It’s been genuinely inspiring to see farmers actively support nesting Curlews on their land. Some went above and beyond to help us locate and protect nests. Their knowledge and willingness to adapt their management temporarily around the birds made a huge difference.”

While the season wasn’t without setbacks, including some eggs which failed to hatched, the project remains focused on learning and improving. A small core of dedicated volunteers were instrumental in monitoring bird behaviour, and their contributions were deeply valued.

To support participating farmers who were able to join the curlew recovery efforts, the project also provided a modest stewardship fund for any delays in nutrient access and harvest due to nest protection measures, funded by the Welsh Government.

Sam added:“This season’s outcome shows what’s possible when we work together. It’s not a dramatic turnaround, but it’s a step in the right direction and a sign that with continued support, we can give this iconic species a fighting chance.”

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport and Denbighshire’s Biodiversity Champion, echoed this sentiment: “The Curlew was once a familiar sight across North Wales and the UK. Seeing six fledglings this year is a testament to the commitment and hard work of everyone involved. We’re proud to support this vital project and hopeful for what future seasons may bring.”

Work Works: Supporting Denbighshire residents into supported employment

Working Denbighshire, a service run by the Council, has launched a new campaign - Work Works, to help local residents take their first steps into work or return after time away, with free, tailored support.

Working Denbighshire aims to show how work can transform lives, especially for those who are economically inactive due to long-term health conditions, disabilities or caring responsibilities, by offering personal, social, and emotional benefits.

At the heart of the message is the understanding that employment is a way to boost your health, confidence and wellbeing, and thanks to local employers working with Denbighshire County Council, more supportive and inclusive workplaces are being created to help local residents thrive. The campaign is part of a wider effort to make employment more inclusive and accessible across Denbighshire.

Whether it’s a first job, a temporary role, or a voluntary position, every opportunity contributes to greater stability, wellbeing and personal growth. Employment also sets a positive example within families and communities, reinforcing the wider benefits of being in work.

The Working Denbighshire team signing the word 'connect' [British Sign Language]

Dru, a successful participant from Working Denbighshire says:

“My advisor helped me grow my confidence, and it’s been more helpful now I can put myself out there … In the beginning, I was a nervous wreck and eventually I came out my shell. With Working Denbighshire by my side, I’m ready to go … [work] is just part of my routine now and I can’t wait for it to happen every day.”

Working Denbighshire offers one-to-one support to overcome challenges people may face when entering work. and provides support throughout the entire journey, from job searches and CV writing to interview preparation and in-employment guidance. The focus is on building a future that works for everyone.

Ready to take the next step? We’re here to help you make it happen.

Call us on 01745 331438 / 07342 070635 or visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/working-denbighshire to get started.

Note:

Denbighshire, utilising creative and accessible formats to reach those who may be offline, disengaged, or facing barriers to work. It’s supported by the UK Government’s Trailblazer pilot and brings together council teams and local partners to offer personalised help, from building confidence and skills to finding the right job and staying in it.

About Working Denbighshire:

Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.

Working Denbighshire is part funded by UK Government.

Council’s ‘free after three’ returns for the festive period

Denbighshire County Council’s ‘free after three’ initiative will be returning once again this year.

Between 24 November and 31 December, council-run town centre car parks will be free to use across Denbighshire every day from 3pm to encourage more people to use their local high street for shopping in the run up to Christmas and New Year.

The ‘free after three’ scheme will be available in the following car parks:

Corwen: Green Lane.

Denbigh: Barkers Well Lane, Crown Lane, Factory Ward, Post Office Lane, Vale Street.

Llangollen:  East Street, Hall Street, Market Street, Mill Street.

Prestatyn: Fern Avenue, Kings Avenue, Lower High Street, Nant Hall Road, Railway Station.

Rhuddlan: Parliament Street.

Rhyl: Library (disabled bays only), Morley Road, Queen Street, Railway Station, Town Hall, Sky Tower, West Kinmel Street.

Ruthin: Crispin Yard, Dog Lane, Market Street, Park Road, Rhos Street, St Peter’s Square, Troed Y Rhiw.

St Asaph: Bowling Green.

Denbighshire County Council have also allocated five free parking days a year to town and city councils. Details of the remaining dates for each town and city councils are below:

Corwen: 03/11, 12/12, 13/12, 20/12.

Denbigh: 30/11.

Llangollen: 29/11, 20/12, 21/12.

Prestatyn: 21/11, 22/11, 24/12.

Rhuddlan: 08/11, 09/11, 07/12, 13/12.

Rhyl: 20/12, 21/12, 22/12, 23/12, 24/12.

St Asaph: 09/11, 28/11, 25/12, 26/12, 31/12.

Ruthin: Dates to be confirmed.

The car parks listed under the ‘free after three’ initiative will also be included within the free parking days.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport said:

“The ‘free after three’ initiative has proved popular in previous years because it is a great scheme that enables residents to support their local communities.

“We hope that everyone supports our local high streets and back our businesses, especially in the run-up to Christmas and take full advantage of the benefits of the scheme by using the county’s town centre car parks free of charge.”

Catering Services shortlisted for national award

Denbighshire County Council’s Catering Services has been nationally recognised for its delivery of frontline services.

The Catering Services team has been shortlisted in the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) Performance Networks 2025 Awards.

Across Denbighshire, the Catering Service runs 54 school kitchens daily to produce 13,500 freshly prepared meals for pupils. That’s 67,500 meals served during the school week to help children learn, grow, and thrive.

APSE is one of the UK’s top benchmarking agencies who work with over 200 councils across the UK. The catering service submits service data annually which is then measured against other entries from across the UK which includes paid and free meal uptakes, staff training, development and attendance, service performance, financial standing and service value for money and general service delivery and Management of the service.

They are committed to promoting excellence in the delivery of frontline services to local communities around the UK. They have shortlisted the Council’s Catering Services in the APSE Performance Networks Awards for Best Performer and Most Improved Education Catering service.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead member for Environment and Transport, said: “We are really pleased that our fantastic Catering Service has been recognised for their work to provide healthy, balanced meals that give our children the best start to their school day.

“Catering staff continue to go the extra mile every day to provide thousands of meals made with care, local produce, and nutritional balance every single day and they should all be proud of what they achieve.”

New childcare facility opens at Ysgol Twm o’r Nant

Ysgol Twm o’r Nant’s new childcare facility building was officially opened by the Chair of the Council, Councillor Arwel Roberts last week, on Thursday, 13^th of November.

Councillor Arwel Roberts (Chairman of the Council) with Councillor Diane King (Lead Member for Education, Children and Families), Dafydd Davies (Headteacher at Ysgol Twm o'r Nant) and Nicola Stubbins (Corporate Director, Social Services & Education).

Ribbon cutting

The project, which began in March of 2024, and was completed in the Summer of 2025, was funded through the Welsh Government’s Prosperity for All commitment to introduce Community Learning Centres which provide extended services with childcare, parenting support, family learning and community access to facilities built around the school day.

The new facility, which sits next to the school building, provides improved facilities for Welsh Medium childcare provision for local families in the Denbigh area, adding to the council’s overall offer within Denbighshire.

Main entrance of the new building

The new building has been designed to fit in with the colour scheme and architecture of the main school building and is approximately 230 square metres and features two classrooms and an outdoor learning area. This project has been designed by the council’s in-house architecture team.

New building with school to the right hand side

Dafydd Davies, Headteacher at Ysgol Twm o’r Nant said:

“Our fantastic new nursery building is more than a space - it’s a place where young learners will grow, play, and thrive in the Welsh language.

This development reflects the growing demand for Welsh-medium education and the need for high-quality Welsh provisions in our area, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn and flourish in Welsh”

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“This new facility means that families in the Denbigh area have access to brilliant, high quality childcare provision.

This facility affirms our commitment as a council to expand our high-quality childcare provision within our County, with this new facility a fantastic addition within the Denbigh Area.

It is great to see that this building is now officially open, which will be a benefit to the community for generations to come.”

Cabinet agrees proposals for future public toilets provision

Denbighshire County Council’s Cabinet has agreed proposals that will keep most public toilets in the county open, with the support of city, town and community councils.

At today’s Cabinet meeting, lead members acknowledged the operational costs of each public convenience in the county and considered the proposal for each facility in line with the confirmed position of each city, town and community council.

Since May this year the Council has undertaken further work with city, town and community councils to try and keep as many public toilets open as possible beyond 31st March 2026.

Although the Council recognises their importance, public toilets are a non-statutory service, and local authorities have no legal obligation to provide them. 

The money received by the council has not kept up with financial pressures and the increasing cost of delivering services, especially statutory services like social care and education.  There is therefore less money to spend on “Place-Making” services, like public toilets.

The Council has worked with city, town and community councils to find a sustainable model to fund and protect as many facilities as possible and cabinet members today acknowledged proposals for keeping most public toilets open thanks to this collaborative approach.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport said, “We know and recognise that public toilets are a valued facility by our residents in Denbighshire. Since May we have gone back out to talk to all relevant city, town and community councils in an open and transparent way to find a collaborative way to keep these facilities open.

“I want to thank the town and community councils for their positive energy and collaboration that has helped us reach the position where we can now keep most of our public toilets open”.

Full details of the proposals put before Cabinet are available here 

Christmas Waste Collection Dates

Denbighshire County Council are advising residents to be aware of temporary collection days changes to Waste and recycling over the festive holidays.

Over the Christmas and New Year period, the following changes will be made to household waste collections, some collection days have changed, these are:

• Monday 22 December 2025 will be collected on Saturday 20 December 2025.
• Tuesday 23 December 2025 will be collected on Monday 22 December 2025.
• Wednesday 24 December 2025 will be collected on Tuesday 23 December 2025.
• Thursday 25 December 2025 will be collected on Wednesday 24 December 2025.
• Friday 26 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Monday 29 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Tuesday 30 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Wednesday 31 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Thursday 1 January 2026 will be collected on Saturday 3 January 2026.
• Friday 2 January 2026 no change (normal collection day).

Commercial waste and recycling collections

The following changes will be made to commercial waste collections over the Christmas and New Year period:

• Monday 22 December 2025 will be collected on Saturday 20 December 2025.
• Tuesday 23 December 2025 will be collected on Monday 22 December 2025.
• Wednesday 24 December 2025 will be collected on Tuesday 23 December 2025.
• Thursday 25 December 2025 will be collected on Wednesday 24 December 2025.
• Friday 26 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Monday 29 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Tuesday 30 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Wednesday 31 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Thursday 1 January 2026 will be collected on Saturday 3 January 2026.
• Friday 2 January 2026 no change (normal collection day).

Garden Waste Collection

Over the Christmas and New Year period, the following changes will be made to garden waste collections:

• Monday 22 December 2025 will be collected on Saturday 20 December 2025.
• Tuesday 23 December 2025 will be collected on Monday 22 December 2025.
• Wednesday 24 December 2025 will be collected on Tuesday 23 December 2025.
• Thursday 25 December 2025 will be collected on Wednesday 24 December 2025.
• Friday 26 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Monday 29 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Tuesday 30 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Wednesday 31 December 2025 no change (normal collection day).
• Thursday 1 January 2026 will be collected on Saturday 3 January 2026.
• Friday 2 January 2026 no change (normal collection day).

During this time, residents can book to visit our waste and recycling parks. Details of what is accepted in our waste and recycling parks are available on the website. 

Normal collections will resume from Monday, 5 January, 2026.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport said: “The Christmas and New Year period can produce a lot of recycling and waste as it is a celebratory time for all. From wrapping paper to bottles, there are lots of extra items that our brilliant waste teams work to collect over the holiday period. We want to thank all our residents for understanding these changes and also thank them for their cooperation during the festive period.”

Full details about Christmas and New Year information is on the Council’s website.

Residents can check how to recycle items on the Council’s A-Z recycling guide online.

Free digital connectivity drop-in sessions

Denbighshire residents and businesses are being invited to attend free digital connectivity drop-in sessions this November and December at Llangollen and Corwen Libraries.

The sessions, run by the Council’s Digital Officer Philip Burrows, will offer tailored advice and support for anyone struggling with their internet connection. Philip can help investigate issues, contact Openreach on your behalf, and provide a detailed report on your connection and available solutions.

As part of the sessions, residents and businesses can also learn more about the new LoRaWan network being installed across Denbighshire with funding from Ambition North Wales. This long-range network will provide open access to businesses and residents, allowing them to connect smart sensors to the internet.

LoRaWan sensors can save time and money by monitoring situations remotely - for example, farmers can track livestock health, monitor gate access, or check water and fuel tank levels, all from a distance.

Session details:

Llangollen Library

• Thursday 20 November (9am – 12pm)
• Friday, 5 December (9am – 12pm)

Corwen Library

• Monday, 24 November (9am – 12pm)
• Tuesday, 9 December (9am – 12pm)

Councillor Emrys Wynne, Lead Member for the Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage, said:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for residents and businesses to get expert help with improving their digital connections.

“Reliable internet access is vital for our communities, and the new LoRaWan network will open up exciting possibilities for innovation - from farming and tourism to small business operations.

“I would encourage anyone who has experienced connectivity issues or wants to learn about the benefits of sensor technology to come along to these free sessions.”

The service is fully funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and is available free of charge to all businesses and residents in Denbighshire.

To find out more or to access support, contact Philip Burrows at philip.burrows@denbighshire.gov.uk

Information on Llangollen and Corwen libraries can be found on our website.

Advice for residents – what to do before, during and after flooding

Denbighshire County Council is reminding residents to stay alert and take practical steps to protect themselves, their homes, and their communities in the event of flooding during the winter season.

County Voice has prepared a rundown of advice to help residents be on the front foot against the impact of any flooding across Denbighshire.

As we see more storms hit the county, flooding can happen quickly and with little warning. Being prepared before, during and after a flood can make a significant difference to safety and recovery after the event.

To prepare for potential flooding you can:

• Check your flood risk: Visit the Natural Resources Wales long-term flood risk maps to see if your property is in a flood risk area.
• Sign up for warnings: If you are at risk, sign up for automated flood warnings to get alerts as soon as possible.
• Review your insurance: Ensure your home and contents insurance includes flood cover. The Government and insurers’ initiative Flood Re can help make flood insurance more affordable.
• Make a personal flood plan: Include key contact details, insurance information, and a checklist of emergency actions. Store it safely in a waterproof folder.
• Prepare a flood kit: Include warm, waterproof clothing, medication, a torch, important documents, and essential supplies in case you need to evacuate.
• Consider protection products: Purchase sandbags or flood boards to block doorways and airbricks.

If flooding does happen following adverse weather and there is a flooded road or a blocked ditch in your area, let the Council know and we will take action to bring the problem under control.

Natural Resources Wales are responsible for issues involving coasts and major rivers. Welsh Water are responsible for sewers. Denbighshire County Council are responsible for surface water and small water courses.
For issues involving major rivers, please contact Natural Resources Wales on 0300 065 3000.
Please see this link below for details of major rivers
For flooding affecting sewers, including combined foul and surface water sewers , please contact Welsh Water on 0800 085 3968 or
For flooding to property or highways, contact Denbighshire County Council on 01824 706000.

Concerns over flooding in your area can also be made to Floodline on 0345 988 1188

If you live in a flood risk area and feel you would like to have a few sandbags at home to keep as a precaution to use in the event of a flood, you can buy sandbags from hardware or DIY stores. There are also other bespoke systems available to protect doorways and air bricks.

The Council does not provide sandbags to individual properties when there is a flood. Instead, we use sandbags mainly to protect groups of residents, for example by diverting the path of flowing water, and directing it towards gullies and manholes. This enables us to protect whole streets, whereas giving out sandbags to individual householders in a street would be a far less effective use of resources.

Communities can also work together to help local residents become more resilient to flooding.

Dyserth Flood Support Community Group was set up after historic flooding on Waterfall Road. The Council provided flood barriers through help from a Welsh Government grant, the funding criteria of which being they could only provide to a community group. Denbighshire County Council provided additional barriers in 2025.

Advice in setting up a local community flood action group is available from The National Flood Forum or contact Paul Owen on 01824 706872 / paul.owen@denbighshire.gov.uk

When a flood happens don't try to walk or drive through flood water. Six inches of fast flowing water can knock you off your feet, and two feet of water will float your car. There are a number of practical things you can do to help prevent damage to your home, including:

• Turn off your gas, electricity and water supplies
• Put plugs in sinks and weigh them down with heavy objects; plug water inlet pipes with towels or cloths, and disconnect any equipment that uses water, such as your washing machine. These steps will help to stop water from coming into the property
• Try to avoid contact with flood water if possible, because it may be contaminated
• Do not leave your home or enter flood water unless you are directly instructed to do so by the emergency services

Councillor Barry Mellor, Cabinet Lead Member for Highways and the Environment, said: “We will always work very closely with our partner agencies to do all we can to minimise the impact of any flooding events that occur across the county. We want our residents to stay safe and I would ask them to follow this important advice to prepare for potential flooding and if it does flood in your area please follow any information issued by us, Natural Resources Wales or the emergency services and also ask people to keep an eye on the weather forecasts, the media and social media for the latest advice and information”.

You can follow us on Facebook  to get updates during a flood event

For further information visit our flood advice web page.

Career changing accident energises career pathway

Matt Jones 

A life changing accident has mapped out a journey for one Ruthin man for helping to learn how to improve energy consumption, lower costs and give back to support to the environment.

Carbon Reduction Project Officer Matt Jones’ career pathway was destined to develop in the world of joinery until one fateful day pushed him onto a different road which is ultimately benefiting Denbighshire residents.

County Voice sat down with Matt to find out how he reached the step to his current role

Matt, a keen mountain biker, went from Ysgol Brynyhyfryd to Coleg Llandrillo in Rhyl and then onto Rhos-on-Sea to do a Building Craft Foundation course, incorporating several hands-on skills.

He explained: “So we did a little bit of plumbing, electrical, joinery, plastering. Then I went on to do joinery, started doing wood occupations…then I broke my ankle. That’s when everything started changing.

I was out biking, I was going over a jump and my foot came off the pedal, I landed foot first before the bike and thanks when my ankle broke…

“I went back and finished the course, got an apprenticeship, and got a job with the same company. But because of the troubles I got with my ankle, I got osteoarthritis, I had a few operations and had to leave joinery and site work in 2015. I suppose it was life-changing,”

“Because I broke my ankle halfway through the year, I went back and finished the year and received an outstanding achievement award from the college.”

Matt had worked on heritage joinery projects including at Conwy Castle, Beaumaris Castle and Denbigh Castle.

“I did quite a lot of interesting stuff, I enjoyed it. But because of the roofing work involving scaffolding and ladders with my ankle I couldn’t keep doing it.”

Following this I then received further operations with ankle arthrodesis (ankle fusion) being the last one almost 10 years ago.

After this a part time job at Cysgod y Gaer residential home run by Denbighshire County Council came up and Matt decided to apply.

“It was a handyman/gardener’ job, that was part time which was perfect for getting back into work as I didn’t know how my ankle would perform. After a few years there I took on a second cleaning role at County Hall.” 

From there another Matt took on another post with the Facilities team at County Hall and then a job came up for an Energy Officer and he embarked on a HNC supported by the Council at Coleg Cambria in Wrexham.

Denbighshire’s Energy Team has managed projects across all Council buildings, to improve building energy efficiency and reduce emissions and usage costs over the longer term.

This ongoing work is part of the Council’s drive to address the climate and nature emergency declared in 2019 and reduce its own carbon footprint.

Matt added: “Then my current role came up, Carbon Reduction Project Officer and the low carbon energy degree apprenticeship and that’s where I am now. So, there’s been quite a lot of steps in my career. People have always supported me here in Denbighshire with career progression, they funded the HNC to help me progress and the degree apprenticeship in Wrexham university is funded by the Welsh Government.

His role is termed as a career grade role, enabling people to jump on to a career that was otherwise exclusively for those already qualified. Career wise, Matt’s role is designed to break the barriers to entry and enable career progression. In the Energy team the Energy Officer role is now also career grade.

“The degree I am doing now, which I have just started my second year, is a Low Carbon Energy Efficiency and Sustainability degree, so it wraps around perfectly what I’m doing here in this role with the projects we are working on.”

Working on projects including installing solar panels to improve energy efficiency at Rhyl High School, Dolwen care home and even working at Cysgod Y Gaer where it all started, sustainability had always been in the back of his mind.

“I’ve always loved been outside and loving nature and having been cycling and mountain biking around Ruthin and the Vale of Clwyd. I suppose I’ve always had that awareness of sustainability.”

“When you start to see the data coming through and monitoring that… its good. I think that’s why am so passionate about it now because I enjoy it. This is now the career I am focused on improving in, whilst one I enjoy at the same time. Every job I’ve had, especially for the Council, I’ve always enjoyed doing it. I’ve only taken that step as a career progression.”

And Matt’s advice to anyone facing a life changing career moment as he did?

“Don’t give up I suppose, just keep going and keep working hard, I think that’s the one thing I’ve always done. I knew I couldn’t be running around sites, I couldn’t be labouring and really enjoying it. I had to work out where I was going to go academically, and I’ve found that place.”

County EV charging network sparks millions of greener miles

Millions of greener miles of support have been provided by Denbighshire County Council’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Network since the first chargers came online.

This Wales Climate Week we take a look back at the impact the growth of the council’s charging network has had on providing a greener public mode of transport for residents and visitors.

The county network sparked into life in June 2021 with rapid chargers at Prestatyn and has since grown with more charging facilities provided at Rhyl, St Asaph, Denbigh, Ruthin, Corwen and Llangollen.

Bringing the network online is part of the council’s continuing work to reduce the county’s carbon footprint and support those drivers who want to transition to electric vehicles but may not have the facilities to charge at home.

Other electric fleet vehicle initiatives are also involved in the council’s goal to reduce carbon emissions, such as the electric powered Ruthin and Denbigh Flecsi bus services.

Since coming online in 2021, the chargers have supported EV drivers by providing 46,200 individual charging sessions to support lower emission public traveling.

That’s the equivalent of 1,100,000 kilowatt hours consumed which would keep 367 Tesla Model 3 cars doing an average of 12,000 miles a year, charged up for the full 12 months. The amount of delivered kilowatt hours would also keep your local supermarket powered up for a full year.

Converting the charging into miles, the EV charging network across Denbighshire has delivered over three million miles for electric powered driving. That’s over 130 trips right around the earth and 950 times hopping on a flight from London to New York. And for a single EV owner, that number of miles generated by the network would keep you driving for well over 250 years.

The UK Government’s 99 percent uptime mandate for public EV charging ports was also introduced last year to make sure EV chargers are constantly working well for drivers who use them. The council’s network is currently running above this target at 99.95 percent.

Work on the additional charging network for a few sites has been supported by grant funding via the UK Government’s Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). Chargers at Corwen’s Green Lane were funded by the UK Government's Levelling Up Fund.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “The creation of this charging network was an important step in our commitment to help our residents who want to move over to electric vehicles but don’t have the facility or off-road parking to do so. The provision of this network will help more to do so.

“We know also that it is helping local businesses as well who have electric vehicles in their fleet and also those with town premises as more EV users are discovering these locations and visiting local establishments and attractions while charging their vehicles along our network locations.

“With a continuing increase in electric vehicle use it has been important to get this infrastructure in place, not only for the users but also to support tackling climate change impact on our county by helping to reduce carbon emissions on the regions roads.”

Lost habitats are back to breathe life into nature

Nature’s been given a helping hand in Denbighshire for the last six years thanks to a project working to restore lost habitats.

Our Wildflower Meadows Project which started in 2019, aims to restore and increase this habitat in the county as since the 1930s. The UK has lost 97% of its meadow land, with Wales in particular having less than 1% left. This loss has impacted heavily on nature and communities.

The project is also part of our wider Bee Friendly campaign aimed at supporting the recovery of bees and other pollinators across the county

Our meadows are usually left uncut between March and August, except a small border mown around each site, allowing the flowers to set seed, and ensures that the meadow provides the greatest benefit to wildlife.

Cut and collect is carried out at the sites to help to lower the richness of the soil, and create the low-nutrient ground that our native wildflowers and grasses need to thrive.

Grass and wildflower seeds collected from areas around the county have been used to enhance our meadows. Some of the seeds have also been grown on at our tree nursery to produce plug plants. Only using local seeds ensure the plants which then grow are genetically suited to Denbighshire and will be the most beneficial to biodiversity in the area.

Here County Voice takes a look back at some of the project highlights that have benefitted both plant and wildlife across Denbighshire.

During 2021 the Biodiversity team recorded a nationally declining species on the Prestatyn Beach Road West site.

Hound’s tongue (Cynoglossum officinale) and was previously only recorded in Denbighshire 18 times within the last 116 years.

Seeds were taken from the site to the Council’s tree nursery and thanks to the effort of the staff, new plants germinated for planting on other coastal meadow sites to help expand its range in Denbighshire.

In 2021 Bithynian Vetch, a species of flowering plant in the bean family Fabaceae grew on a single project site managed by the Biodiversity team. Since 2019, this was the only place in Wales it was recorded growing in the wild.

During June staff collected a small number of seeds from the Bithynian Vetch. These were taken back to the Council’s tree nursery at St Asaph to be grown on site to help boost the plants dwindling numbers.

An innovative organic method was carried out as well in 2021 to help control the length of grass in a Denbigh meadow.

The site was treated with locally sourced Yellow Rattle seeds. Yellow rattle is a parasitic plant, tapping in to the roots of grasses and other neighbouring plants and stealing their nutrients. This reduces the dominance of grasses within a meadow, allowing more native wildflowers to take hold.

During the 2022 season the Biodiversity team inspected the site and found a reduction in grass length and an increase in wildflowers.  The successful trial meant more food for pollinating insects and their predators

‘Bee Friendly’ really came into its own in 2023 after the Biodiversity team found a new resident at a Ruthin meadow.

A female Tawny mining bee was found resting in a nest on the site. The spring flying bee with dense orange and red hair feed from a variety of flowers which make wildflower meadows the perfect area to locate to.

Tawny mining bees are usually seen from March to June and are common throughout south and central Britain. This showed how designated sites are providing support for local nature to flourish as well by providing plants for pollinators and grass for insect food.

The team also discovered during this season pyramidal orchids at two coastal sites at Prestatyn which was recorded as a first.

And last year a pyramidal orchid was discovered inland at a meadow in Ruthin indicating the network of meadows were really starting to help nature fightback.

This year extra bee orchids were discovered at a meadow in Denbigh which shows the meadows  are working as a combined highway for plants, insects and animals to move across the county, increasing biodiversity as they go.

Orchid produce seeds which are incredibly small (also known as dust seeds). These seeds must come in contact with a special type of mycorrhizal fungi that will help the orchid seed germinate and aid it in its early growth. Each orchid tends to have a particular mycorrhizal fungi that it partners with, so unless the soil conditions are right for the fungi, orchids won’t grow. The resurgence of orchid shows the project in 2025 is heading in the right direction, and the meadows are continuing their journey to recovery.

Working Denbighshire helps residents overcome barriers to employment

Working Denbighshire provides tailored support to residents across the county who are facing barriers to employment, including low confidence, anxiety, and limited work experience. Through mentoring, volunteering opportunities, and skills development, the service helps individuals build confidence and move closer to their goals.

One example of this support is Derek, who was referred to Working Denbighshire through the Job Centre a few years ago. At the time, Derek was experiencing low confidence, anxiety, and lacked the skills and experience needed to enter the workforce.

With guidance from the Working Denbighshire team and through a volunteering placement at St Kentigern’s Warehouse, Derek has made significant progress. He’s now actively working towards a career in IT support or administration.

Derek, Working Denbighshire participant said:

“At one point I was extremely shy, with bad anxiety and no confidence.

“I never thought I’d get to where I am now, but with support from Working Denbighshire and through volunteering, I’ve overcome so many barriers.

“I know the younger me would be proud of how far I’ve come.”

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of Denbighshire County Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth and Tackling Deprivation, said:

“Derek’s journey is a brilliant example of the positive impact Working Denbighshire can have on people’s lives.

“It’s about more than just finding a job, it’s about helping people unlock their potential, overcome personal barriers, and feel confident in their future.

“We’re proud to support residents like Derek on their journey towards employment.”

Derek continues to build his skills and experience through volunteering and is determined to secure a full-time role in the near future.

His journey forms part of the Working Denbighshire Complex Disabilities and Mental Health Team’s wider “Work Works” campaign, which highlights the positive impact that working, or taking steps towards work can have on people’s lives. Whether it’s improving wellbeing, gaining confidence, meeting new people, or learning new skills, the campaign shares real stories from across Denbighshire to inspire others.

Working Denbighshire is a free service that helps residents access training, find employment, and build confidence in their job search. Anyone looking for support can get in touch by visiting our website.

Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.

Working Denbighshire is part funded by UK Government.

Ever wondered where your Council tax goes?

Many people think that Council tax pays for everything that a local authority delivers, however, the money collected from residents annually only accounts for 26% of total Council spending.

The majority of funding (62%) comes in the form of a ‘Revenue Support Grant’ from Welsh Government, while the remaining 12% comes from business rates which is a property tax that businesses pay to help fund local services. You can find out more about how the Council is funded on our website.

So where does your Council tax actually go? We’ve produced an infographic based on a Band D property council tax bill to help give a clear explanation of how council tax payments are used to fund the range of services for residents in the county. While this infographic gives a picture of how the money is shared between different services, understanding what residents gets for that money is really important.

As you can see, the majority of council tax spending goes towards protecting the most vulnerable in our society, with 66% spent on schools and education and adult and children’s social care.

With Education accounting for 36.7%, it means that Denbighshire can educate approximately 16,500 pupils in 44 primary schools, 2 all-through schools, 2 special schools, 6 secondary schools and 1 pupil referral unit across the county, with approximately 780 teachers delivering this education

Still in the field of education, school transport accounts for 2.9% for which the Council transports approximately 2,871 learners safely to schools throughout the county. In total, there are 650 school bus and taxi trips every school day.

Meanwhile, adult and children’s social care accounts for 29.8% of Council tax spending. For this, in 2024-2025, an average of 668 members of staff had over 25,000 contacts with the most vulnerable children and adults and provided a package of care and support where necessary giving these residents the opportunity to exercise choice, voice and control over their lives.

In other service areas, 1.9% goes towards public protection and environmental health and the Council’s teams inspects approximately 720 restaurants, cafes and take aways every year to ensure they’re operating safely for the residents of Denbighshire.

Emptying bins and recycling accounts for 1.8% of your council tax bill, which equates to £32.89 per year (based on a Band D property). That involves collecting around 73,000 containers from over 47,000 households every week across the county.

For 1.8% of council tax, we maintain 1,419km of carriageways (excluding trunk roads), 601 highway bridges and culverts, 302 retaining walls and 26,000 gullies. And for 0.8%, we maintain 11,763 street lights and 1,547 illuminated signs and bollards throughout the county.

Other services residents may not be aware that are delivered by the Council are the Countryside and Heritage Services. With 1.1% of council tax going to the countryside service, the teams manage over 80 sites and more than 1,200 hectares of public green for both recreation and conservation. These range from the Country Parks of Loggerheads and Moel Famau, the county tree nursery at St. Asaph, Brickfield Pond in Rhyl, Prestatyn Dyserth Way, Llantysilio Green in the Dee Valley and numerous smaller amenity community spaces across the county.

While the heritage service accounts for 0.9% of Council tax spending and for this, the service preserves and promotes the county’s unique history, caring for important historic sites including Ruthin Gaol, Plas Newydd, Nantclwyd Y Dre, Rhyl Museum (based in the library) and a large collection store. This work ensures Denbighshire’s rich history remains accessible for education, wellbeing, and enjoyment.

Planning and economic development accounts for 0.7% of Council tax spending and for that the Local Planning Authority processes around 1,000 planning applications each year alongside 10-20 appeals and 50-100 pre-application enquiries. We also respond to over 500 planning compliance cases.

Libraries account for 0.5% of Council tax spending and in 24-25, Libraries delivered 514 Bookstart sessions to nearly 6,500 children for this money. It also lent  2,869 audiobooks to 1,028 library members on Borrowbox (part of the Digital Offer) and printed over 56,000 pages on public access printers.

Not all Council tax collected pays for council services, 2.5% goes towards the Fire service to contribute to the funding of fire protection and prevention across the county.

Councillor Delyth Jones, Lead Member for Finance at Denbighshire County Council said, “I am pleased to see the production and release of this infographic information. It will, I hope, provide residents with the context they need in order to understand how their council tax payments are used to support the breadth of services delivered by the Council.

“In what is a continuing financially challenging climate, I think it’s important to be open and clear about the costs and the pressures. It’s also important to emphasise that many of the aspects of expenditure are, quite rightly, aimed towards the legal requirement to provide Adult Social Care, Children’s Services, and Education etc. These are the areas that support the most vulnerable in our society.”

Corporate Plan Highlights April 2024 to March 2025: A well-run, high performing Council

Every year, the Council reviews its performance in delivering the Corporate Plan 2022 to 2027: The Denbighshire We Want. Our Corporate Plan sets out what we want to achieve for the people and communities of Denbighshire over the next 5 years. The Plan consists of six themes. 

Corporate Plan Highlights April 2024 to March 2025: A greener Denbighshire

Every year, the Council reviews its performance in delivering the Corporate Plan 2022 to 2027: The Denbighshire We Want. Our Corporate Plan sets out what we want to achieve for the people and communities of Denbighshire over the next 5 years. The Plan consists of six themes.

Corporate Plan Highlights April 2024 to March 2025: A learning and growing Denbighshire

Every year, the Council reviews its performance in delivering the Corporate Plan 2022 to 2027: The Denbighshire We Want. Our Corporate Plan sets out what we want to achieve for the people and communities of Denbighshire over the next 5 years. The Plan consists of six themes.

Corporate Plan Highlights April 2024 to March 2025: A healthier and happier, caring Denbighshire

Every year, the Council reviews its performance in delivering the Corporate Plan 2022 to 2027: The Denbighshire We Want. Our Corporate Plan sets out what we want to achieve for the people and communities of Denbighshire over the next 5 years. The Plan consists of six themes.

Corporate Plan Highlights April 2024 to March 2025: A prosperous Denbighshire

Every year, the Council reviews its performance in delivering the Corporate Plan 2022 to 2027: The Denbighshire We Want. Our Corporate Plan sets out what we want to achieve for the people and communities of Denbighshire over the next 5 years. The Plan consists of six themes.

Corporate Plan Highlights April 2024 to March 2025: A Denbighshire of quality housing that meets people's needs

Every year, the Council reviews its performance in delivering the Corporate Plan 2022 to 2027: The Denbighshire We Want. Our Corporate Plan sets out what we want to achieve for the people and communities of Denbighshire over the next 5 years. The Plan consists of six themes:

Christmas Waste and Recycling Collection Week Commencing Dec 22

Denbighshire County Council are advising residents to be aware of temporary collection days changes to Waste and recycling over the festive holidays.

Over the Christmas and New Year period, the following changes will be made to household waste collections, some collection days have changed, these are:

Normal collections will resume from Monday, 5 January, 2026.

Full details about Christmas and New Year information is on the Council’s website.

Residents can check how to recycle items on the Council’s A-Z recycling guide online.

Avian Influenza update from Denbighshire County Council

Denbighshire County Council is advising poultry and game birds owners to be aware of the potential risk of avian influenza (bird flu).

The risk of the avian influenza virus increases during the winter due to migration of waterfowl and gulls and is a highly contagious viral transmitted from bird to bird or through the environment.

The disease can affect the respiratory, digestive or nervous system of many species of birds, and common signs include a loss of appetite, swollen heads and respiratory problems which can lead to death.

Following an increased number of reported cases in Wales, from today (Thursday November 13), it will be a legal requirement for all keepers of 50 or more birds of any species to house them to reduce the spread and stop the virus.

Mandatory housing will also apply to flocks of less than 50 birds of any species if eggs or poultry products are sold or given away, due to the increased risk of disease transmission associated with trading or giving away poultry products.

The new compulsory housing measures will be incorporated into the existing Wales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) introduced in January. 

Denbighshire County Council would like to remind anyone who keeps poultry or game birds, including those with fewer than 50 birds, that it is a requirement to provide details of their flocks to the Poultry Register.

This will ensure that they can be contacted immediately in an avian disease outbreak so that they can take action to protect their birds at the earliest opportunity.

Poultry keepers should inspect their birds regularly for signs of the disease and separate birds that are showing signs of being affected. Any suspected cases of avian influenza should be reported immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

To report and dispose of dead birds, please call DEFRA on 03459 335577 or to register your poultry  click here  or call the GB Poultry Register Helpline, on 0800 634 1112.

For more information, please visit the link below:

https://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/licences-permits-and-trading-standards/trading-standards/bird-flu-hpai-virus.aspx

Young people urged to claim their savings

Many young adults in Denbighshire could have an average of £2,200 waiting for them in their unclaimed Child Trust Fund account.

Child Trust Funds were introduced by the UK Government in 2005. Accounts were opened for almost 6 million children born in the UK between 1st September 2002 and 2nd January 2011.

Nearly half of Child Trust Funds in Wales remain unclaimed. According to the Share Foundation, around 1240 accounts are still unclaimed in Denbighshire.

Young people aged 16 or over can take control of their own Child Trust Fund, although the funds can only be withdrawn once they turn 18. Families can continue to pay up to £9,000 a year tax-free into a Child Trust Fund until the account matures. The money stays in the account until the child withdraws or reinvests it into another account. If a parent or guardian could not set up an account for their child, the government opened a savings account on the child’s behalf.

Every 16-year-old is sent information about finding their Child Trust Fund from HMRC with their National Insurance letter. Anyone unsure about their situation should check with their bank or building society. Alternatively, young adults and parents can also search on www.gov.uk/child-trust-funds to find out where their Child Trust Fund account is held.

Councillor Delyth Jones, Lead Member for Finance, Performance and Strategic Assets said:

“I strongly encourage all eligible young people to check their accounts and claim what is rightfully theirs. The investment could be placed into an adult ISA or put towards their education, housing or driving lessons.

I would urge young people to use the online tool to track it down or, for parents of teenagers, to speak to them to ensure they’re aware of their Child Trust Fund. It could make a real difference to their future particularly at a time when finances are tight.”

The Child Trust Fund scheme closed in January 2011 and was replaced with Junior Individual Savings Accounts (ISA).

For more information on Child Trust Funds, visit www.gov.uk/child-trust-funds. Alternatively, visit https://www.meiccymru.org/do-you-have-money-hiding-in-a-child-trust-fund/, text 07943 114449 or call 080880 23456.

Discovering Denbighshire

Looking to discover more of Denbighshire?

Why not take inspiration from our walking and cycling maps for new ideas of places to visit.

For more inspiration on activities in and around Denbighshire visit - https://www.northeastwales.wales/  

Fancy learning something new?

The Denbighshire Tourism Ambassador scheme is a free, online training course to enhance your knowledge and deepen your understanding of the Denbighshire tourism offer.

There are 14 modules to choose from on a variety of themes including walking, cycling, food, arts, coast, history and sustainable tourism.

Watch our short film highlighting the course.

Visit www.ambassador.wales and get started today!

More areas to receive Flying Start assistance in Denbighshire

Further areas within Denbighshire are now set to receive assistance through the Flying Start childcare scheme.

The expanded areas now cover Rhyl, Prestatyn, Meliden, Rhuddlan, Dyserth, Denbigh, Corwen, Llangollen, Llandrillo, Llanfair DC and are applicable to families who have a child who turned 2 years old between 1^st September 2024 and 31st August 2025.

This expansion means that families in the new areas will be eligible for up to 12 ½ hours of funded childcare per week during term time. With more settings offering funded Flying Start Childcare, and new postcodes being added regularly, families are encouraged to check their postcode using the postcode checker on the website.

Denbighshire Flying Start is a Welsh Government funded programme. The aim of the programme is to help children to have the best possible start in life for their future growth and development.

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families said:

“This latest expansion of the Flying Start scheme will mean that more Denbighshire families can now get access to the free childcare provision. This assistance is a massive help for parents and families.

Residents in the newly expanded areas can check if their postcode is eligible through the postcode checker.”

For more information please visit our website. 

Highlighting Denbighshire's main towns

Our Tourism Team have been highlighting each of our main towns in their North-East Wales blog.

You can find out more in their blog

Did you know the Council’s Licensing Team have launched their new service standards.

The Council’s Licensing Team have launched their new service standards. It explains what you can expect when applying for licences, during inspections and enforcement, and how to get in contact or provide feedback. For more information visit our website.

Did you know that 29.8% of Council Tax spending goes towards adult and children’s social care?

29.8% of Council Tax spending goes towards adult and children’s social care. And with 36.7% going to schools and education, this means that over 66% of your Council Tax goes towards protecting the most vulnerable in society.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that 1.9% of Council Tax spending goes towards public protection and environmental health?

1.9% of Council Tax spending goes towards public protection and environmental health and as part of this, the Council inspects approximately 720 restaurants, cafes and take aways every year to ensure that these premises are operating safely for the residents of Denbighshire.

In addition, the Council responds to over 1,200 requests a year relating for housing and pollution.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Working Denbighshire offers free, weekly wellbeing sessions

Working Denbighshire offers free, weekly wellbeing sessions across the county - from drop-ins and wellness walks to youth support and confidence-building activities. They're open to all Denbighshire residents aged 16+, and they’re completely free! Check out the latest timetable and events here. 

Did you know that school transport accounts for 2.9% of Council Tax spending?

School transport accounts for 2.9% of Council Tax spending and for that the Council transports approximately 2,871 learners safely to 75 schools throughout the county.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Downloading eBooks, audiobooks, newspapers etc

You can download eBooks, audiobooks, digital magazines and newspapers for free using the Borrowbox app? All you need is your library card and PIN. Not a library member? It’s free to join online www.denbighshire.gov.uk/libraries

Did you know that Denbighshire Heritage Service accounts for 0.9% of Council Tax spending?

Denbighshire Heritage Service accounts for 0.9% of Council Tax spending. For that it preserves and promotes the county’s unique history, caring for important historic sites, including Ruthin Gaol, Plas Newydd, Nantclwyd Y Dre, Rhyl Museum (based in the library) and a large collection store.

This ensures Denbighshire’s rich history remains accessible for education, wellbeing, and enjoyment.

Through our attractions, events, and learning programmes, we support local pride, cultural tourism, and the economy while protecting heritage for future generations.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that Planning and economic development accounts for 0.7% of Council Tax spending?

Planning and economic development accounts for 0.7% of Council Tax spending.

The Local Planning Authority processes around 1,000 planning applications per year alongside 10-20 appeals and 50-100 pre-application enquiries.

The Authority also respond to over 500 planning compliance cases.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that 1.1% of Council Tax spending goes towards Countryside Services?

1.1% of Council Tax spending goes towards Countryside Services and for that, the service manages over 80 countryside sites and over 1,200 hectares of public green, for both recreation and conservation.

These range from the Country Parks of Loggerheads and Moel Famau, the County Tree Nursery at St. Asaph, Brickfields Pond in Rhyl, Prestatyn Dyserth Way, Llantysilio Green in the Dee Valley and numerous smaller amenity community spaces across the County.

The Service has specialist team covering Ecology and Trees throughout the County, the National Landscape designation, recreation and rights of way, organises nature for health walks and events and manages the Countryside Centre at Loggerheads and catering at Plas Newydd.   

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that street lighting accounts for 0.8% of Council Tax spending?

Street lighting accounts for 0.8% of Council Tax spending.

For that, the Council maintains 11,763 street lights and 1,547 illuminated signs and bollards throughout the county.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Denbighshire Youth Service

That Denbighshire Youth Service is open to everyone aged 11 to 25 years. They offer social activities and opportunities to develop interests as well as help and support for anyone that needs it. To find a youth club near you or for help and support for children and young people, please visit our website.

Council Tax only accounts for 25% of total Council funding

Council Tax only accounts for 25% of total Council funding. When you pay your annual Council Tax bill, 1.8% of that pays for waste and recycling collections - the equivalent of £32.89 per year (based on a Band D property council tax of £1,799.48 per year). Most of Council Tax spending goes towards the most vulnerable in society - schools and education is the biggest expenditure accounting for 36.7% while adult and social care accounts for 29.8%. Find out more on our website

Did you know that all primary

All primary aged children are eligible for free school meals through the Universal Primary Free School Meals scheme? This is a Welsh Government initiative which has been set up to help with the rising costs-of-living. You can find out more information on the Council's website.

Did you know that single use vapes are being banned in Wales from 1 June?

Single use vapes have been banned in Wales since 1 June.

The ban includes vapes containing nicotine, non-nicotine, CBD and other health/vitamin devices, and the Council’s Trading Standards team is encouraging Denbighshire businesses to switch to reusable products before the ban comes into place.

You can find out more on our website.

Did you know?

Schools and education accounts for 36.7% of Council Tax spending, and social care accounts for 29.8% which means that over 66% of your Council Tax goes towards protecting the most vulnerable in society.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website.

Working Denbighshire has its own section on our website?

Working Denbighshire has a section on the Council's website. Working Denbighshire is here to help residents aged 16 and over who might be struggling or worrying about money. Whether you’re looking for work or need support to get back on your feet, we’re here to guide you towards a better future. Why not have a look on our website.

Part of Council Tax spending goes towards the Fire Service?

Part of Council Tax spending goes towards the Fire Service.

Not all Council Tax collected pays for council services, 2.5% goes towards the Fire service. To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website.

Did you know that roads and infrastructure accounts for 1.8% of Council Tax spending?

Roads and infrastructure accounts for 1.8% of Council Tax spending.

Within that, the service is responsible for 1,419km of carriageways (excluding trunk roads), 601 highway bridges and culverts, 302 retaining walls and 26,000 gullies.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know that 1.8% of Council Tax spending goes on emptying bins and recycling?

Emptying bins and recycling accounts for 1.8% of your Council Tax bill, which equates to £32.89 per year (based on a Band D property).

For that, the Council collects approximately 73,000 containers from over 47,000 households every week across the county.

To find out more about how your Council Tax is spent visit our website

Did you know you can watch live and recorded video webcasts of Council committee meetings?

You can watch live and recorded video webcasts of Council committee meetings at any time.

All the related papers are also available for you to see.

If you want to know more about what’s happening in the Council, look at the calendar of meetings to find out what’s going on.

A Christmas Celebration

The annual carol service ‘A Christmas Celebration’ hosted by Denbighshire County Council is being held in Rhyl this month.

The service will be taking place on Wednesday evening 3 December at 7pm at St Thomas’ Church, Rhyl.

During the service, a collection will be made towards St Kentigern Hospice, St Asaph and Urdd Gobaith Cymru, which are the Chairman’s chosen charities this year. 

Taking part, this year are:

• Ysgol Brynhyfryd
• Four Counties Fusion Band
• Côr NantClwyd

Councillor Arwel Roberts, Chairman of the Council, said: “I’m delighted to invite everyone to join us for this year’s Carol Concert.

It’s always a special occasion that brings our community together, and it’s wonderful to see local schoolchildren sharing their talents and festive spirit.

I hope as many people as possible will come along to enjoy an evening of music and celebration.”

We would like to thank Denbighshire Music Co-operative, who once again this year are overseeing the musical arrangements/direction for the evening.