Road improvement schemes set for March

Denbighshire County Council Highways is set to carry out a number of road resurfacing schemes during March to continue improving routes across the county.

Works carried out will include several schemes funded from a Welsh Government Local Government Borrowing Initiative (LGBI).

The Council earmarked 57 locations in Denbighshire to benefit from the two-year programme. The aim of the funding (£4.780m over 2025/26 and 2026/27) is to improve the carriageway surface condition on sections of the county’s road network.

Other schemes during March are capital funded by the council to improve the driving experience for residents and visitors across the county road network.

The Welsh Government funded schemes taking place in March are:

• Wigfair Rd,Asaph: 02/03 – 13/03
• H bridge, Rhyl: 02/03 – 25/03         
• Llys y Delyn to Bryn Mawr junction Rhuallt: 21/03 – 25/03
• Fforddlas, Rhyl: 30/03 – 19/04           

Denbighshire County Council capital funded road maintenance work during March includes:

• Maes y Coed, Denbigh: 02/03 – 06/03
• B5501 Clawddnewydd: 16/03 – 30/03
• Fforddisa, Prestatyn: 19/03 – 20/03
• Denbigh Green to A541: 23/03 – 19/04       
• A542 Horseshoe Pass: 24/03 – 02/04
• School Lane, Eryrys: 25/03 – 02/04
• A5104 Bryneglwys: 16/03 – 02/04   

Further information regarding some of these schemes will be posted on Denbighshire County Council social media.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “We are fully aware of ongoing discussions regarding the condition of our roads in Denbighshire. A lot of hard work will be going on across March to address a sizable part of our road network for the benefit of those who use the routes.

“I would like to thank all our residents living in the areas where this work will take place and also the drivers who use this route for their patience while we carry out this important work during March.”

Further information regarding Highways work is available on our website: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/roads

Community comes together at ‘Meet Your Neighbours’ event in Denbigh

Llwyn Eirin residents gathered at HWB Dinbych recently for a successful ‘Meet Your Neighbours’ community event.

Organised by the Council’s Housing & Communities Service, the event brought together the residents of Llwyn Eirin, who have recently moved into their new homes and partner organisations to strengthen community connections and meet their neighbours and to also highlight the wide range of support available for them in Denbigh.

Llwyn Eirin residents had the opportunity to meet representatives from Flying Start / Families First, Denbighshire Housing, and Working Denbighshire at HWB Dinbych. They also were able to take part in crafting with local artist Jude Wood (via DLL Ltd) and light refreshments helped create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere to help support the new residents, with the families attending throughout the afternoon.

Lead Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Rhys Thomas, said:

“It was fantastic to see so many residents come along to the event and take the opportunity to connect with one another and with the services available locally.

“Bringing partners together under one roof makes it easier for people to access advice and support, while also helping to build stronger relationships within the community.

“Events like this show the strength of community spirit we have here in Denbigh, and we’re grateful to everyone who attended and contributed to such a positive afternoon.”

The Council would like to thank all partners and residents who supported the event and helped make it a success, and we hope that the residents of Llwyn Eirin will be very happy in their new homes.

The development has been supported by Welsh Government funding through its Innovative Housing Programme, enabling Denbighshire County Council to work with the Rhyl-based Creating Enterprise Community Interest Company assembling components off-site for this modern approach to housebuilding.

The Llwyn Eirin development forms part of Denbighshire County Council’s Affordable Housing Programme, which is delivering new council homes across the county to meet local need.

NOTE

The Llwyn Eirin homes have been built to the Passivhaus standard, offering excellent insulation and reduced energy use. The properties are fitted with ground-source heat pumps, avoiding the need for a gas supply and have solar panels. This will help to reduce carbon emissions and support the Council’s commitment to tackling climate change.

Group tackles marine litter on Barkby beach

A group has come together to tackle the impact of marine litter on Barkby beach sands and surrounding area.

Organised by Denbighshire County Council’s Flood Risk Team, 14 volunteers managed to collect 14 bags of litter from the beach and surrounding area on the day. Keep Wales Tidy also provided some of the litter picking equipment used at the event held this week.

Items taken off the beach included a camping stove, a Thermos flask and a fishing rod.

The event on February 16 was organised to tackle the impact of marine litter in the area which can block up waterways and drainage, stopping the flow of water, leading to higher risks of localised flooding further upstream.

Removing the litter off the beach can also provide stronger support for natural defences such as shorelines, dunes and seagrass beds as they are able to better maintain their natural function as defences against the sea.

Thanks to the support of volunteers who stepped forward last month, 22 bags of marine litter were also removed from the sands and areas around the Nova in January.

Claudia Smith, Coastal Erosion and Flood Risk Officer, said: “We have had such an amazing response again from volunteers who really have made a fantastic difference to this local environment. Through everyone’s efforts there will be less risk of local flooding and damage to the environment and wildlife as well following the litter pick.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Cabinet Lead Member for Highways and the Environment, said: “We need to continually manage the risk of localised flooding from marine litter washing up on our beaches and reducing the defence against floods.”

Living outdoor dome drives school nature support

A new living outdoor area has sprung to life at a primary school to help local nature.

In a first for Denbighshire County Council’s Biodiversity and Countryside Service teams, supported by Ysgol y Faenol pupils, they have built a living willow dome at the school to help nature habitats at the site.

Pupils recently joined with representatives from both teams to plant over 1,000 trees on the school grounds to provide support for local nature and providing learning opportunities for themselves and future classes at Ysgol y Faenol.

This work is funded by the UK Government through the 2025/26 UK Shared Prosperity Fund which has granted Denbighshire County Council £278,600 for nature recovery works across the county.

Pupils joined council staff to build the willow dome as the final part of the new habitat creation on site.

The living dome will provide a sustainable structure which will be a useful resource for further green woodworking activities with the students and habitat for insects and birds and a natural area to promote learning about nature for the school.

Play time is also important for engaging children with nature this dome and willow tunnels will provide a resource to support this as well.

It will also provide a food source for the caterpillars of a number of moth species, which would be a food source for birds as well.

Willow roots will also help with soil stabilization and waterlogged ground, while fallen leaves can enrich the ground improving damp or boggy areas It will also provide an early important source of nectar for bees and other insects as spring arrives.

 Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport and Biodiversity Champion, said: “This is a fantastic new addition to the school to help local nature and support learning about our natural habitats for the pupils at Ysgol y Faenol.”

Flying Start care in Denbighshire to celebrate 20-year milestone with drop-in session in Rhyl

Held as part of the celebration of 20 years of Flying Start Service in Denbighshire, a free drop-in session is to take place at the 1891 restaurant in Rhyl, hosted by the council’s Flying Start team. The event will be held on Wednesday 4^th of March, 10:00am – 2:00pm.

The event will offer local families with a chance to meet the local services that support families with babies and young children.

As well as meeting with services providers, families can also get advice and information from the council’s Flying Start team and other services. There will be opportunities to find out what support is available and the child-friendly activities that are being held locally.

Denbighshire Flying Start is a Welsh Government funded programme for children aged from 0 years up until their 4th birthday and their parents/carers, who live in eligible post coded areas.

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 is great opportunity for local families to come along and find what support is available to them. Families with children under four should check their eligibility to see if additional support is available to them.

As well as providing support, our team will be signposting to local child-friendly activities.”

Denbighshire County Council site to provide new affordable homes in Rhyl

Denbighshire County Council has been successful in securing a development partner for the construction of brand-new affordable homes on the site of the former older persons’ flats at Maes Emlyn in Rhyl.

The sale of the site to Wales & West Housing will pave the way for the construction of energy-efficient homes for social rent.

The Maes Emlyn site was formerly the location for Council-owned accommodation for older people.

It would have become increasingly challenging to maintain the flats to an acceptable standard and as a consequence the previous residents were relocated to more suitable homes elsewhere in the Rhyl area.

This development marks an important step in bringing the site back into use for the benefit of the community.

A Pre-Application Consultation is currently taking place, giving residents the opportunity to view and comment on Wales & West Housing’s proposals before the final planning application is submitted in Spring 2026. The consultation will close on Thursday, 12 March 2026 and it can be found on Wales & West's website. 

Councillor Rhys Thomas, Denbighshire County Council’s Cabinet Lead Member for Housing & Communities, said:

“This is a site we have wanted to see brought back into use for some time, so I’m delighted that by working with Wales & West Housing, there is the prospect of high-quality new homes being delivered here.”

Emma Hancock, Land and Partnerships Manager in North Wales for Wales & West Housing, said: “We are pleased to be working in partnership with Denbighshire County Council to redevelop the Maes Emlyn site. A planning application for construction of a new development of affordable homes will be submitted this Spring.”

Upcoming planned maintenance work at Marine Lake

Denbighshire County Council is informing residents that upcoming planned maintenance work will be undertaken at Marine Lake in Rhyl.

To perform the work the lake will be partially drained, beginning on Friday 27^th of February for approximately 2 weeks whilst annual revetment inspections and general site maintenance take place.

This partial drain will allow access to the revetments and the clearance of larger items from around the edges, whilst ensuring that there is sufficient water retained for the swans to safely remain on the lake. The lake will be topped up once the works are complete.

The Harbour Office, who manage Marine Lake, have been working with officers from Countryside Services to ensure minimal disruption to the swans and other wildlife at the site. These works have been planned to take place both outside the wildlife nesting season, and the users summer season.

The biodiversity of the lake, as well as the activities on the lake, are equally important to the future of the site and that any works and decisions made take full account of the lake as a whole.

More than just music

This year to celebrate Dydd Miwsig Cymru (Welsh Language Music Day), Denbighshire’s Welsh Language Officer put together a playlist of traditional Welsh songs along with the lyrics to be used in the county's care homes.

Gerallt Lyall said, "Usually, Dydd Miwsig Cymru is a hook to raise awareness of the contemporary, vibrant music scene in Wales, which is great! But we wanted to create something a little different.

"Traditional songs are a core part of our history and culture. They tell stories about our communities, our history and our way of life. Often, these songs are familiar even to those who do’nt speak Welsh and we’ve deliberately included some songs that have developed English words to the same original tunes such as Cwm Rhondda (Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer) and Gwŷr Harlech (Men of Harlech).

"We have also included Anfonaf Angel written by Robat Arwyn and sung by Rhys Meirion - two of Denbighshire's most accomplished musicians, who bring local content to the playlist."

Much research has been done linking the positive effects of singing and music in on the mind and on well-being. In addition, music is recognized as a highly effective therapy for people with dementia helping with memory, reducing distress and anxiety and also stimulating communication and engagement with others.

The hope is that hearing these traditional songs will take the listener back in time, creating a mixture of nostalgia, pride for Wales and enjoyment.

The Welsh Government’s strategy, 'More than Words', aims to ensure that the Welsh language belongs and is rooted in health and social care services throughout Wales, so that individuals receive care that meets their linguistic needs without having to ask for it. This playlist is a different way of ensuring that some of our residents have access to the Welsh language in a fun way.

Although this pack has been created for Dydd Miwsig Cymru, the list can be played at any time, for example to celebrate St David's Day or in a regular slot in care homes such as for half an hour on Sunday afternoons to enjoy a session of listening and singing in a group.

Gerallt added, "Our vision is for the resource to be used to give the listener the feeling that they are in a concert and that they can sing along with the music."

The playlist on YouTube is open to everyone and if you’d like a copy of the lyrics package to go with the songs, please email cymraeg@denbighshire.gov.uk.

Llangollen car park to undergo improvement works

Llangollen’s Mill Street carpark is set to undergo a period of infrastructure improvements.

Denbighshire County Council has secured funding to undertake the work, scheduled from March 2, at the car park which will address existing defects at the site.

Work will include the replacements of missing and broken block paving, repair of the existing fencing between the top section of the car park and the A539 and relining of the parking bays.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport and Biodiversity Champion, said: “Improvement works to this car park are important to address infrastructure defects, ensuring the area is fit for purpose, safe and a welcoming facility which will provide a boost for the local economy.”

The improvement works is scheduled to commence during week commencing March 2 subject to weather conditions and contractor availability.

Rhyl School sees improvements in audit actions and assurance level

The latest audit report produced on Christ the Word school in Rhyl has seen improvements in both audit actions and assurance levels over the past three years, with the school moving up from a ‘Low’ to ‘Medium’ level.

Christ the Word Catholic School in Rhyl was placed in special measures by Estyn in 2022, with key issues highlighted and improvements suggested by the education and training inspectorate for Wales.

Since then, the Council’s Department of Education has worked collaboratively with the Audit Department to deep dive into core issues at the school, which has helped inform the improvement plans.

Three audit reports have been produced since 2022.

In comparison to the first audit report from 2022, the most recent report, which was completed in October of 2025, saw the assurance level improve from a ‘Low’ to ‘Medium’, which is one below the highest assurance level.

The first audit commenced in December 2022, roughly five months after the school was placed in special measures by Estyn. This report identified five issues, four categorised as ‘Major’ and one as ‘Moderate’.

Back in 2022, the school received a ‘Low’ assurance level, which is one above the lowest assurance level with the audit highlighting four ‘Major’ risks:

• Weak governance arrangements.
• Financial arrangements need strengthening.
• Conflicts of Interest not managed.
• No school fund account in place.

The audit also highlighted issues with staff training, which it placed as a ‘Moderate’ risk, the lowest risk category, while there were no risks at the highest ‘critical’ level.

A clear action plan was set during the 2022 audit, and steady improvement can be seen across the two subsequent audits.

The second audit, completed in January 2024, showed progress in several areas, with the auditor noting “clear improvements in governance arrangements.” They also highlighted “significant improvements since the last review,” particularly in financial management and the handling of conflicts of interest, which were no longer areas of concern.

The auditor further confirmed that safeguarding and first aid officers were properly trained and clearly identified throughout the school.

These improvements increased the school’s overall assurance rating from ‘Low’ to ‘Medium’, meaning only minor weaknesses remained in management of risks, but there was no risk to the achievement of objectives.

The number of ‘Major’ issues halved from four to two, with only one ‘Moderate’ issue recorded. Governance concerns and issues linked to legacy school accounts (from the merger of Ysgol Mair and Blessed Edward Jones into Christ the Word) remained categorised as ‘Major’. Mandatory training was identified as a ‘moderate risk’ as of January 2024.

In the most recent audit, completed in October 2025, the school maintained its ‘Medium’ assurance level. It did not identify any risks as ‘Critical’ or ‘Major’. 

It placed four risks in the ‘Moderate’ category, the lowest risk category, which included vacancies within the governing body, governor training, financial commitments (which mostly pertained to old purchase orders not being closed down) and mandatory training issues not being completed.

However, it’s important to note that issues around governing body vacancies, governing body training and staff training are common themes in other secondary schools in the county which were reviewed during the same time period, and not things which are exclusively an issue at Christ the Word.

The auditor stated the “review identified there were good governance arrangements” in place and that “examples include regular governing body meetings with supporting documents such as agendas and detailed minutes to support appropriate challenge.”

It also stated that “all statutory policies are reviewed regularly, which are accessible to staff and governors.”

There were no issues surrounding safeguarding, with the audit stating, “the safeguarding policy is available on the website and all staff have received additional in-house training” and that “safeguarding and first aid officers are suitably trained and clearly identified in posters around the school.”

It further added that “health and safety arrangements are effective, with regular fire alarm drills and security checks performed, and up-to-date fire risk assessments. There are Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras on site, with an up-to-date CCTV policy. All staff have completed the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.”

Geraint Davies, Head of Education at Denbighshire County Council said:

“We would like to thank the audit department for their hard work on all three audit reports to date.

The reports have helped the school to address a number of shortcomings and work on key areas, leading to a much-improved learning environment for pupils, and work environment for staff.

We acknowledge there are still improvements to be made, as highlighted in the most recent audit report but the tireless work of the school, diocese, education department and key partners is clear to see through this vastly improved audit report. We will continue to work on the Estyn recommendations over the coming year.”

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

“There are clear improvements that can be seen when comparing all three audit reports. The school has now moved from a ‘Low’ assurance to a ‘Medium’ and as of the most recent audit, no longer has any issues labelled as ‘Major’ by the auditor.

It is obvious that a lot of hard work has been undertaken by the staff, and I’d like to thank them for their participation in the continuous improvement at this school.

There is still work to be done, and issues to address, but I am encouraged by the improvements made so far, which are highlighted in the most recent audit report.”

A spokesperson for the Diocese said:

“The Diocese is working with the Council to further the improvements recommended by both Estyn, and the audits.

We are encouraged by the improvements noted, but realise that there is further work to be done.”

Denbighshire County Council approves budget for 2026–2027

Denbighshire County Council has today (Thursday, 12 February) approved its budget and set the Council Tax level for 2026–27.

Like councils across the UK, Denbighshire continues to face significant financial pressures. Demand for services is rising, and needs are becoming more complex, particularly in our schools and from those needing social care.  Next year, costs that are outside of the council’s control are forecast to exceed £20 million for the fourth consecutive year.

Most of the council’s day-to-day costs in providing services is funded by Welsh Government with the remaining 25% funding generated from Council Tax.  The recent increase in funding from Welsh Government – although welcome – does not fully cover our financial pressures, making a Council Tax rise unavoidable.

Councillor Delyth Jones, Lead Member for Finance, said: “With 64% of our budget spent on schools, social care and homelessness, and a further 14% committed to things like the Wales wide national scheme for Council Tax benefit and the levy we have to pay to the North Wales Fire and Rescue Authority, that only leaves 22% left for all other Council services.

“We know these services matter greatly to residents, but the growing demand for statutory services means budgets are continually squeezed. Protecting our most vulnerable residents must remain our priority.

“In setting this year’s budget, we have worked hard to keep Council Tax increases as low as possible, avoiding cuts to services, while still providing the vital services people rely on.”

The approved Council Tax for 2026–27 is 4.76% for Council services, along with the additional 0.46% which has to be paid to the North Wales Fire and Rescue Authority levy, giving a total of 5.22%.

Essential services such as education, adult care, support for children and homelessness prevention account for 64% of the Council’s total budget. The remainder covers a wide range of everyday services including:

• Inspecting around 720 food businesses each year
• Collecting approximately 73,000 bins and recycling containers weekly from nearly 49,000 households
• Maintaining countryside sites such as Loggerheads, Moel Famau and Bodelwyddan Park
• Protecting heritage attractions including Ruthin Gaol, Nantclwyd y Dre and Plas Newydd
• Providing an average of 12,000 school meals every day
• Transporting around 2,870 learners safely to school
• Maintaining 11,763 streetlights and 1,419 km of county roads

Councillor Jones added: “I’m pleased that this budget does not require reductions to service delivery. Instead, we have focused on efficiencies, income generation and transforming how services operate.”

For those residents worried about paying their Council Tax, those on low incomes may be eligible for support through the Council Tax Reduction Scheme. More information is available on Denbighshire County Council’s website.

Cabinet endorses the progression of projects to improve Denbighshire

Denbighshire County Council’s cabinet has approved the progression of five projects that will bring a range of benefits across Denbighshire.

In September 2025, the UK Government announced £1.5M of capital funding for every Welsh local authority through the Pride in Place Impact Fund (PiPIF).

This fund aims to deliver visible improvements to high streets and enhance places and community assets, particularly in areas not benefiting from the separate £20M Pride in Place (PiP) Fund.

Following cabinets decision to endorse the selection process, the projects will now be submitted for PiPIF funding to the UK Government and delivered by March 2027. 

The approach focused on aligning funding with projects that already had corporate support but no identified funding, met PiPIF criteria, were affordable, and deliverable by March 2027.

Scheme of refurbishment for priority Public Toilets in Key Towns –

The project will look to refurbish the public conveniences across the county as identified within the public convenience’s strategy. This will include the installation of contactless payment and refurbishment to reflect individual condition reviews. These refurbishments will include the public conveniences in Rhyl, Prestatyn, St Asaph, Rhuddlan, Llangollen, Ruthin.

Town Centre Property Development Grant Scheme –

This grant scheme will look to address eyesore high street properties and has been successfully delivered previously through the Shared Prosperity Fund which is due to end in March. The project will take effect county wide.

Accessible Play Scheme: Additional accessible play equipment and access to rural communities –

This is a project that will seek to enhance the accessible play offer in various rural locations within the County using accessible equipment and entry/exit ways. The accessible play offer will expand to Y Wern, Llandrillo, School Field, Corwen, Nant-y-Pandy, Glyndyfrdwy, Coed Afon, Llangollen and Maes-Y-Dre, Ruthin.

Bodelwyddan Toilet Facilities –

Following the significant improvements carried out to Bodelwyddan Country Park funded by the Shared Prosperity Fund providing over 19000m2 of accessible green space and 2km of footpaths, this project is intending to provide customer toilets for the reopened country park to maximise to ensure accessibility for all.

Motorhome ‘Aire’ provision –

This pilot project will aim to upgrade one of the car parks at Barkby beach as Motorhome provision (Aire) to provide an alternative for Motorhome visitors to the area by delivering more suitable infrastructure. Similar schemes are currently being rolled out across North Wales and the UK.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“The decision that cabinet has made highlights the commitment that Denbighshire County Council has in securing external funding to deliver projects that will bring a range of benefits across Denbighshire.

“These five projects will bring benefits to the local community and were specifically chosen as they already met the PiPIF criteria, were within budget and can be delivered by the deadline.”

Council’s Domiciliary Support Service praised in CIW inspection report

Denbighshire County Council’s Domiciliary Support Service was praised in its most recent Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW) inspection, which took place in late August of last year.

The previous inspection took place in 2023.

The report summary findings praised the council’s personalised approach, stating that “people experience excellent wellbeing outcomes” and that “support staff deliver very good care and support which promotes rehabilitation, independence, social connections, and community engagement.”

When inspecting, CIW considered three themes, Well-being, Care and Support and Leadership and Management, which saw a score of ‘excellent’, ‘good’ and ‘good’, respectively.

The report summary recognised that “people access services to support all areas of their health and wellbeing” as well as highlighting the service’s management and leadership approach, stating that “the leadership and management of the service is good”. It went on to say that “all team members work collaboratively internally and with external stakeholders to enhance the wellbeing of the people they support.”

In relation to Well-being, the service was rated as ‘excellent’. The report stated that “people receive highly individualised support” and they “have an extremely strong voice and lead on what support they want and how this needs to be delivered on a day-to-day basis to meet their personal outcomes and goals.”

The report commended the service’s individualised support, noting that the Inspectorate staff “saw care staff go above and beyond to enhance the lives of the people they support” which “contributes to people consistently experiencing positive wellbeing outcomes.”

It further highlighted that “people speak positively about the service and very highly of the care staff who support them.”

In relation to Care and Support, when considering the service’s approach to personal care plans it stated that the records of care were “professionally written, and reflective of the support specified within personal plans.”

The report praised the service’s safeguarding knowledge and collaboration with other services, stating “the provider works collaboratively with health professionals, social care professionals and housing providers to support people with all aspects of their daily lives. Professionals we spoke with were positive about working relationships with the provider.”

It also said that “care staff speak positively about the work they do, taking genuine satisfaction in helping people achieve their goals.”

The final theme was Leadership and Management. The report praised the work of the management staff, and stated that “senior staff and deputy managers oversee each of the support teams, making sure there are sufficient care staff, support is appropriately scheduled and there are points of contact for guidance.”

The inspectorate reported that “care staff told us staffing is sufficient, so they do not have to rush when supporting people.”

The service’s development approach was also highlighted, stating “the provider is committed to developing the service by exploring areas such as equality and diversity, assistive technology, and emerging best practice.”

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

“It’s fantastic to see our domiciliary care team recognised by CIW for going above and beyond to make a real difference to the everyday lives of Denbighshire residents.

This service is all about supporting people to live well, stay independent and remain connected to their communities. This inspection report is really positive, and a credit to the skill and dedication of our staff who deliver person-centred care with dignity and respect every single day.”

The report can be viewed here: https://digital.careinspectorate.wales/directory/service/SIN-00009249-RFGK

Working Denbighshire and RCS unite to support local jobseekers

Working Denbighshire is delighted to partner with RCS (formerly Rhyl City Strategy) through the ‘Beyond Barriers’ initiative to provide quick access to therapeutic support for residents across Denbighshire who face health-related challenges preventing them from entering work.

This collaboration, launched as part of the Denbighshire Trailblazer project, brings together local expertise to tackle barriers such as mental health conditions, chronic pain, and low confidence, helping people build resilience and move closer to sustainable employment.

The Trailblazer programme - funded by the UK Government and delivered by the Welsh Government - targets economically inactive people of working age who are disabled and/or have health conditions, or caring responsibilities by providing tailored interventions including one-to-one mentoring, counselling services, wellbeing provision, and specialist support for those with health conditions.

This service offers up to eight sessions of therapy, including counselling, CBT, physiotherapy, and specialist support for issues such as stress, anxiety, bereavement, and chronic health conditions. This partnership provides flexible, bilingual support that empowers individuals to overcome barriers and create positive futures.

This collaboration reflects Working Denbighshire’s shared commitment to responding to local needs, connecting people to the right support, and creating positive futures for individuals and communities. Job searching and starting work can be stressful, especially for those managing health conditions. By offering tailored therapeutic support, the initiative helps individuals build emotional resilience, improve confidence, and develop coping strategies that make the transition into work more stable.

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

“This partnership is a vital step in tackling economic inactivity in Denbighshire. By working with RCS, we can ensure that people who face health challenges receive the support they need to move closer to employment. This partnership creates opportunities and improves wellbeing for our communities.”

Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant, said:

“Tackling economic inactivity means understanding the real barriers people face. This partnership recognises that for many, health challenges can make the journey into work more difficult. By providing flexible and bilingual therapeutic support, Beyond Barriers - with Welsh Government support - is helping Denbighshire residents build the confidence and resilience they need to succeed.”

Alison Thomas, Chief Executive at RCS added:

“We are extremely pleased to be part of the Beyond Barriers project and to be working in partnership with Working Denbighshire. As a workplace wellbeing company established in Rhyl, it is particularly meaningful for us to be delivering this support across Denbighshire and giving back to the communities we were founded in.

By coordinating therapeutic and physiotherapy services, we are proud to share our expertise, support people to improve their health and wellbeing, and help make a positive difference as they move closer to employment.”

For more information about inclusive services or employment opportunities, residents can call 01745 331438 / 07342 070635 or visit the Working Denbighshire website: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/working-denbighshire.

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.

Barkby beach area to undergo litter pick

A litter pick is set to tackle marine littering on a popular section of Prestatyn shoreline this month.

Fresh from tackling beach areas near the East Nova carpark last month, Denbighshire County Council’s Flood Risk Team is organising a second event to cover areas from Barkby Beach car park.

The beach clean will take place on February 16 from 3pm until 4pm. Those who want to support the marine litter pick are welcome to join at the upper Barkby car park by 3pm.

Thanks to the support of volunteers who stepped forward last month, 22 bags of marine litter were removed from the sands and areas around the Nova in January. The event was also supported by Keep Wales Tidy also provided some of the litter picking equipment.

Marine litter can block up waterways and drainage, stopping the flow of water, leading to higher risks of localised flooding further upstream.

Getting marine litter off the beaches can provide stronger help also to natural defences as shorelines, dunes and seagrass beds are more able to maintain their natural function as defences against the sea.

Claudia Smith, Coastal Erosion and Flood Risk Officer, said: “The volunteers who joined us last month did an amazing job removing the marine litter from areas near the Nova. We want to this time concentrate on the stretch from Barkby Beach car park as we know more marine litter tends to wash up this side which can contribute to local flooding and damage the environment and wildlife as well.”

Councillor Barry Mellor, Cabinet Lead Member for Highways and the Environment, said: “Managing the risk of localised flooding from the impact of marine litter washing up on our beaches is vitally important to protect properties from floods. It’s also better for the wellbeing of our residents and those who visit these areas and the wildlife found on these beaches, I would encourage people who feel like they can make a difference to join in.”

For further details contact claudia.smith@denbighshire.gov.uk/ 07785517398

Official opening of Bwthyn y Ddôl Children’s Assessment Centre by Dawn Bowden MS

Minister for Children and Social Care, Dawn Bowden MS has unveiled a plaque to mark the official opening of Bwthyn y Ddôl Children’s Assessment Centre.

Bwthyn y Ddôl is a partnership project between Conwy County Borough Council, Denbighshire County Council and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) that provides support for children with complex needs and their families.  The facility includes a dedicated assessment unit to provide space for intervention and therapy, alongside accommodation for planned stays.

The Minister was welcomed by representatives from the partner organisations and joined the wider project team at Coed Pella to learn more about the development.

Minister for Children and Social Care, Dawn Bowden, said: "I was delighted to officially open Bwthyn y Ddôl today. It’s a fantastic example of how we want transform children's services in Wales, keeping children within their communities and close to their networks of support.

“It's inspiring to see how partners from Conwy, Denbighshire and the Health Board worked together, alongside local services, to create something that will make a real difference to the lives of children and their families."

Cllr Kay Redhead, Conwy’s Cabinet Member for Children and Safeguarding, said: “I was delighted to welcome the Minister today. We’re very proud of the work that’s taking place at Bwthyn y Ddôl to support children, young people and their families. The benefit of having a bespoke facility for these services cannot be underestimated, and I’m pleased that such an innovative model, working with partners from Denbighshire and Health, is going from strength to strength.”

Councillor Diane King, Lead Member for Education, Children and Families at Denbighshire County Council said, “I’m so pleased that this valuable facility at Bwthyn y Ddôl has opened. It’s going to have such a positive impact in the area and make such a difference to those children and families who need complex support. This model of care has been developed to focus on the specific needs of children and young people using the expertise of a multi-disciplinary team and is an excellent example of what we can achieve when we work in partnership.”

Tehmeena Ajmal, BCUHB’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “I am delighted the Minister has officially opened this much-needed resource for children and families in Conwy and Denbighshire. It is another example of our commitment to collaborating with our local authority partners and others, for the benefit of our communities.

“We really hope the work we are a part of at Bwthyn y Ddôl gives families the best chances of staying together and makes sure vulnerable children are fully supported, closer to home and their support networks.”

The project was funded through the Welsh Government’s Integrated Care Fund (ICF) and Housing Care Fund (HCF).

The contractor was Bodelwyddan-based Wynne Construction Limited.

Bwthyn y Ddôl opened its doors to service users in December 2024 and is the first of its kind in Conwy and Denbighshire.

Denbighshire’s proposed budget for 2026-2027

Denbighshire County Council’s Cabinet has put forward its proposals for setting its budget for 2026-27.

Every Council is legally required to set a balanced and deliverable budget and to set the level of Council Tax each year.

Councils across the UK are facing significant pressures. Demand for services in our communities continue to rise, and the complexity of needs has increased, particularly in Education, Social Care and Homelessness. The cost of delivering these statutory services has increased well above inflation, driving up the overall requirement for day‑to‑day spending.

For 2026/27, Denbighshire County Council’s cost pressures are forecast to exceed £20m for the fourth consecutive year. While the council receives most of its funding from Welsh Government, supplemented by Council Tax, recent increases in Welsh Government funding—although welcome—do not fully cover these pressures, making a rise in Council Tax unavoidable.

This year, the proposal put forward is a Council Tax increase of 4.76% for council services plus an additional 0.46% to meet the higher levy from the North Wales Fire and Rescue Authority, resulting in a total propsed increase of 5.22%.

Lead Member for Finance, Councillor Delyth Jones said, “In setting this year’s budget we have tried to keep Council Tax increases as low as possible while still being able to provide the vital services that our residents rely on.

“Most of our budget goes toward schools, education, and supporting adults who need care. We also invest significantly in services for children and people experiencing homelessness. These services protect the most vulnerable people in our communities. Together, these essential services account for 65% of the Council’s total budget.

“That leaves 35% for everything else we do — from inspecting around 720 food businesses each year, to collecting about 73,000 bins and recycling containers from nearly 49,000 households every week.

“We also maintain countryside sites like Loggerheads, Moel Famau and Bodelwyddan Park; protect heritage sites such as Ruthin Gaol, Nantclwyd y Dre and Plas Newydd; provide over 12 million school meals annually; safely transport around 2,870 learners to school; and maintain 11,763 streetlights and 1,419 km of roads across the county.”

Some people will be shielded from the increase through the Council Tax reduction scheme which helps those on low income or those claiming benefits. Residents can find out more about this on Denbighshire’s website on the Council tax reduction scheme page.

The Cabinet meets at 10am on Tuesday, 10 February and the meeting will be broadcast  via the webcast on our website.

Share your voice to shape county future

Residents are encouraged to have their say in the “Let’s Talk: Living in Denbighshire” survey.

Denbighshire County Council has launched the survey which is designed to capture people’s views and voices on life in their local communities and the services they use.

The survey gives residents the opportunity to share what matters most to them around their local area in the county

Councillor Julie Matthews, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Corporate Strategy, Policy, Equalities and Strategic Assets, said: “This survey is a real opportunity for residents to make a difference to their local area. Your voice will help us understand what’s working well and where we need to improve going forward.

“The more people who take part, the better picture we will have of what matters to our county communities and how we can shape services for the future in Denbighshire.”

Residents are encouraged to complete the survey and to share it with family, friends, and neighbours to ensure as many voices as possible are heard.

The survey is open to all Denbighshire residents and can be completed online here

Paper copies of the survey are also available at libraries across the county.

Did you know that our Corporate Plan sets out what we want to achieve for the people and communities of Denbighshire and highlights of what we’ve achieved can be viewed here.

Foster Wales Denbighshire carers set to receive council tax reductions as part of fostering package

Foster carers who decide to foster through the local authority will be offered up to 100% discount on their council tax as standard as part of Denbighshire’s fostering package.

Full-time foster carers who are accepted through the Foster Wales scheme will start to receive this discount from April of this year as a part of the council’s transformation initiative, which has the ambition to increase the number of Foster Wales Denbighshire carers, allowing children to be cared for closer to their communities and achieve better outcomes.

Along with this, foster carers who foster with the local authority are being offered further assistive policies, which will be rolled out from April.

Denbighshire County Council has also approved a foster friendly policy for staff who foster with the local authority, who are eligible for five additional days of special leave.

Rhiain Morrlle, Head of Children’s Services said:

“Our foster carers make such a massive impact to the lives of children and young people in Denbighshire. We are currently looking for more foster carers to come and make a difference to a child or young person’s life, who can provide a safe and happy home for them.

We hope that the policies implemented emphasises our commitment to those who make the rewarding decision to Foster for Denbighshire.

This is just one of the assistive policies that we will be rolling out for those who decide to foster through the local authority, with some announced already, and more to be announced within the coming months.”

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

“Fostering can make a real difference in a child’s life, and fostering locally in Denbighshire can change the lives of children and young people in our local communities here in Denbighshire.

We hope this new policy can help potential foster carers to take the next rewarding step, and become full-time, local foster carers with the local authority.”

For more information about fostering, please go to: https://denbighshire.fosterwales.gov.wales

Redeveloped Prestatyn playground opens with seaside theme

Central Beach play area has reopened this week following a period of redevelopment by Denbighshire County Council.

The Council’s Streetscene department managed the project after securing grant funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Work has seen a new seaside theme roll into the site that is near Prestatyn beach, alongside the installation of accessible and sensory play equipment that is designed to allow children of all abilities play together.

The new look play area is designed to provide a modern update with dynamic, exciting and varied play. It provides physical and cognitive play types and a lot of variety to ensure children learn and grow as well as explore different types of physical activity.

KOMPAN carried out the redevelopment of the play area after being briefed by Council officers who were keen to acknowledge the seaside surroundings at the site.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport said: “It’s fantastic to see this play area back open for children to enjoy and I would encourage local and visiting families to stop by and take in the new amazing seaside themed site that sits next to Prestatyn’s beach.”

Working Denbighshire’s Jobs Fair comes to Rhyl in February

Jobseekers across Denbighshire are invited to join the Working Denbighshire Jobs Fair on Wednesday, 25 February, from 10am to 2pm at the 1891 Bar & Restaurant, Rhyl Pavilion.

Held in partnership with Job Centre Plus, this free event will bring together a diverse mix of local and national employers who are actively recruiting for a wide range of roles across multiple sectors.

Building on the success of previous fairs — which have welcomed over 40–50 employers and attracted hundreds of attendees — this February’s accessible event continues Working Denbighshire’s commitment to breaking down barriers to employment and connecting people with real opportunities close to home.

Attendees can expect to meet employers representing sectors such as hospitality and leisure, health and social care, armed forces, manufacturing and more, reflecting the varied workforce needs across the region. Organisations such as the Royal Navy, North Wales Police, Haven, and a wide mix of local employers offering both entry‑level and experienced career pathways will be in attendance.

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

“Our Jobs Fair is all about creating access to opportunities for local people.

“We’re delighted to welcome a range of employers who are actively looking for candidates, and we encourage residents to come along, explore what’s available, and chat directly with organisations ready to hire.”

Melanie Evans, Principal Manager, Strategic Employment, said:

“Our job fair is a fantastic chance for residents to meet employers face-to-face and discover what’s happening across key sectors in Denbighshire. It gives them the opportunity to spark future-changing conversations, build their confidence, and show people the variety of careers available right here in our county.”

The event is free and open to everyone, including jobseekers, career changers, young people exploring options, and anyone interested in training or employment support available through Working Denbighshire.

For more information and updates, visit working.denbighshire.gov.uk or follow Working Denbighshire on social media.

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.

‘Treeific’ pupils plant hope for local nature

Pupils at Ysgol y Faenol in Bodelwyddan have put in a ‘treeific’ effort to provide new habitats for local nature at their school ground.

Pupils have joined together with Denbighshire County Council’s Biodiversity and Countryside Service team members to plant over 1,000 trees of varied species at the school.

This work is funded by the UK Government through the 2025/26 UK Shared Prosperity Fund which has granted Denbighshire County Council £278,600 for nature recovery works across the county.

Rolling up their sleeves, pupils have been busy planting hedgerows and standard trees at Ysgol y Faenol.

Standard size trees planted include alder, sessile oak, rowan, hazel, silver birch, bird cherry, guelder rose and elder.

The children also planted wayfaring trees, which have an interesting history for the pupils to learn along with facts about the other species. Wayfaring trees were named in the 1500s after been noticed on the routes between Wiltshire and London. If you see a wayfaring tree, you are said to be on or near a path.

Over 1,100 smaller trees of different varieties planted at the school will also create hedgerows and woodland that will help pupils learn more about the habitat benefits to local nature as they develop and mature.

The trees planted to create these areas included wild pear that will provide a food source for birds and mammals and its flowers a haven for local pollinators. Also planted by the pupils is dogwood, the leaves of which are eaten by the caterpillars of some moths, including the case-bearer moth.

The habitat creation at Ysgol y Faenol will not only give the pupils an area to learn about local nature but will also contribute locally to the absorption of carbon emissions thanks to extra trees in the ground.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport and Biodiversity Champion, said: “We are really grateful to all the Ysgol y Faenol pupils for their brilliant help towards shaping this great new area to support local nature to and to also benefit the wellbeing and learning of all pupils current and future.”

Company and conversation sessions to be held in collaboration with talking points

Three of Denbighshire’s Libraries are set to host a set of 'Company and Conversation' sessions in conjunction with the Talking Points service.

The free sessions will be held at Corwen, Rhyl and Ruthin libraries throughout February and March, alongside the regular talking points sessions, which are held in a different Denbighshire library each day of the week.

The sessions are facilitated by Making Sense.

As well as offering the regular advice and guidance information, these special talking points sessions will offer the chance for citizens to take a stroll down memory lane and allow interaction with ‘reminiscence boxes’.

The boxes feature a collection of memory boxes and bags, which hold nostalgic items that residents can interact with. Most of the items are from the 1950’s era.

Reminiscence box contents (Image credit, Making Sense)

Alongside the boxes, tea and cake will be supplied, as well as the opportunity to create through a number of arts and craft mediums.

Arts and crafts (Image credit, Making Sense)

The sessions will be held in:

• Rhyl library - February 10^th, 17^th and March 10^th, 24^th.
• Corwen library – February 18^th, 25^th and March 4^th, 11^th,18^th
• Ruthin library – February 10^th, 17^th and March 3^rd, 10^th, 17^th

All sessions will run from 10am – 12pm.

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

“These sessions are a brilliant opportunity for residents to pop down to the library, have a chat, enjoy a cup of tea and possibly take a trip down memory lane.

They’re creative and fun, and I’m sure they will bring real value to everyone who takes part. I’d like to thank all of the partners involved, including our Library Service, for hosting these sessions and creating welcoming, enjoyable opportunities that bring people in our communities together.”

Tenants move into new energy-efficient homes in Denbigh

Tenants have now moved into their new homes at the Llwyn Eirin development in Denbigh, following the completion of 22 high-quality, energy-efficient council houses.

All 22 homes have been successfully allocated, with a strong emphasis on supporting local people, helping to ensure affordable housing is provided for local communities.

New tenants have praised both the homes and the support they received during the allocation process.

One resident said: “The housing officer has been very supportive in helping us. These properties are amazing and are beautiful inside.”

Another added: “Thank you for our beautiful new home. We are going to benefit so much. The long wait was worth it and being kept informed along the way as well.”

A community event is currently being planned to give new residents the opportunity to meet one another and begin building connections.

The Llwyn Eirin homes have been built to the highly energy-efficient Passivhaus standard, offering excellent insulation and significantly reduced energy use. The properties are fitted with solar panels and ground-source heat pumps, meaning they do not require a gas supply. This will help lower household energy bills, reduce carbon emissions and support the Council’s commitment to tackling climate change.

The development has been supported by Welsh Government funding through its Innovative Housing Programme, enabling Denbighshire County Council to work with Creating Enterprise on this modern and sustainable approach to housebuilding.

Councillor Rhys Thomas, Lead Member for Housing and Communities, said:

“It’s fantastic to see tenants moving into these new homes at Llwyn Eirin. This development shows our commitment to providing high-quality, affordable housing for local people while also delivering homes that are fit for the future. These energy-efficient properties will help residents keep energy costs down while supporting our wider environmental ambitions.”

The Llwyn Eirin development forms part of Denbighshire County Council’s Affordable Housing Programme, which is delivering new council homes across the county to meet local need.

Contractors appointed for Ruthin projects

The council have successfully appointed a contractor for the impending public realm improvement works to Ruthin town.

In 2023, the UK Government confirmed their intention to provide £10.95 million of grant funding for 10 capital projects aimed at protecting Ruthin’s unique heritage, wellbeing, and rural communities.

This funding has been awarded exclusively for successful projects included in Clwyd West and cannot be directed to other projects.

Undertaken by OBR Construction, the proposed works to St Peter’s Square and Cae Ddol will look to widen the scope for hosting events, revitalise historical buildings and landmarks to support local identity, and promote pride of place by boosting the image of the town.

The St. Peter’s Square public realm improvement works are scheduled to start on site from mid-March 2026, and will be carried out through a phased approach, with the project temporarily paused in July to allow Gwŷl Rhuthun to take place safely and without disruption.

All construction activity will stop for the duration of the festival, and the site will be secured throughout this period. Once the festival concludes, construction works will resume as planned.

Work at Cae Ddol to introduce an active travel route and pump track will begin at a later date once the rugby season finishes in April, minimising disruption to regular users of the grounds.

As a part of the agreement, OBR Construction will provide a business liaison officer to support businesses with any porterage services required during the project.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“Whilst this project is an exciting development to Ruthin that will look to revitalise the square and Cae Ddol, we are aware that residents and business owners will be affected whilst the work is carried out.

“Throughout both projects, OBR Construction and the council will work closely with the community, providing regular updates on progress and notify of any temporary impacts. Advance notices will be issued to ensure residents, businesses, and visitors are aware of temporary changes to access and traffic management during the construction phase.

"As we prepare for upcoming works in the area, we are asking all businesses and residents that have not completed an Access Needs Survey, to do so. Responses are essential in helping us understand what access businesses and residents will need once the works begin.

“By completing the survey, you will help us to ensure maintained access to properties and premises, allow us to plan and support appropriate routes and minimise disruption during construction”.

If you have not completed the survey yet or if you require further information about the schemes, please contact the project team: corporateprogramme@denbighshire.gov.uk.

Turf-cutting ceremony marks start of works on new community hub

A turf-cutting ceremony was recently held to mark the start of works to construct a new community hub and extension at Ysgol Bro Elwern.

The £2.7 million project is partly funded by the Welsh Government through its Welsh ;Language Capital and Universal Primary Free School Meals grant to provide a new classroom and state of the art kitchen for the primary school, whilst the community hub is funded by the UK Government as part of grant funding for 10 capital projects aimed at protecting Ruthin’s unique heritage, wellbeing and rural communities.

Attending the ceremony were representatives from Denbighshire County Council, pupils and staff from Ysgol Bro Elwern, local members and representatives of the Community Council alongside staff from SWG Construction who are undertaking the works.

The project is set to benefit the pupils at Ysgol Bro Elwern as it will deliver a new classroom, kitchen and ancillary spaces and access to an onsite hall space.

The Community hub itself will include a large hall and meeting space to provide improved facilities for social engagements for the local community and will be managed by the Community Council.  Cylch Meithrin will be relocated into the Community Hub.  The facility will also be used by the school, local community groups and the Post Office.

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

“The turf-cutting ceremony is a significant milestone to an important project that will make a real difference to the pupils of Ysgol Bro Elwern as well as the community in Gwyddelwern. The project will not only provide new state of the art facilities for one of our schools, but it will also provide a vital community hub for the community.

“I would like to thank the local member, Councillor Hugh Evans, and the Community Council for their commitment throughout this process and Denbighshire County Council are excited to support the project as it progresses”.

Riverside Park development begins

Work is set to commence to help improve and develop health and wellbeing along Llangollen’s Riverside Park.

Funded by Shared Prosperity Transitional Year Funding the work starting Monday February 2, will be coordinated by Denbighshire County Council’s Streetscene department.

The development of the area follows previous improvement work at the park during the last few years which has seen initiatives including a 9-hole bespoke mini golf and play equipment added to the site.

Streetscene is working to further enhance the park for local residents and visitors to enjoy.

The project will see the replacement of an existing ramp from Aldi Car Park to the Skatepark/MUGA area to improve the accessibility of this area to wheelchair users and others with greater accessibility needs, and the installation of two further ramped paths to improve accessibility around the park.

Fencing will be added next to the old children’s play area to make this section more secure, and an additional access gate will be installed on the river side of the park.

An outdoor gym will also be installed which will include seven items of equipment to enable users to exercise with a view over the river. In addition to this, two accessible picnic benches will be installed in this area with concrete bases to enable easy access by wheelchair.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Denbighshire County Council’s Lead Member for Environment and Transport said: “We are pleased to be able to continue making improvements along this great area at Llangollen through this funding Streetscene has been able to access. This work will enhance other areas that have already been improved at Riverside Park to further raise the profile of this important part of the town for both the enjoyment of residents and those visiting Llangollen."

Denbighshire’s Council agrees extension to Corporate Plan

Denbighshire's full Council today (Tuesday, 27 January) agreed the proposal for its current Corporate Plan, The Denbighshire We Want, to be extended by one year to 2028.

This change will allow the next elected Cabinet and Council, following the May 2027 local government elections, the opportunity to develop their own five-year Corporate Plan for the period 2028–2033.

This has been done by the Council to strengthen the ability for the new Council to shape a plan that reflects its priorities and vision, strengthening councillor ownership of the Corporate Plan and its delivery.

The Corporate Plan is a key strategic document that enables the Council to meet its statutory duties under the Local Government and Elections (Wales) Act 2021, the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, and the Equalities Act 2010.

The change agreed today is supported by the ongoing delivery of detailed strategies such as the Climate and Nature Strategy, Digital Strategy, Economic Strategy, and Workforce Strategy.

Cllr Julie Matthews, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Corporate Strategy, Policy, Equalities and Strategic Assets said, “This proposal gives the next Cabinet and Council the time and space to develop a Corporate Plan that truly reflects their priorities, while ensuring continuity and stability for our residents.”

Garden subscription renewal goes live

Denbighshire gardeners who use the garden waste subscription service can renew their collection from today (January 12)

Renewal for 2026 to 2027 is now open to make sure there is time for everyone to sign up before the new service period starts from April 1.

The Council is encouraging residents who are subscribing for the first time also take advantage of this sign-up period from today (April 1) to take full advantage of the 12-month service.

Residents are encouraged to renew their collection service online using the link below:

https://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/bins-and-recycling/garden-waste.aspx

The two weekly garden waste service offers residents a convenient, cost-effective means of dealing with their garden waste and makes a significant contribution towards meeting statutory recycling targets.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport said: “Today’s the day to renew or sign up for the 12 months garden waste collection service. I would urge residents to do this at their earliest convenience to account for the delivery time of any new containers and to and to take advantage of the full 12-month service.

Residents can check whether they have a live subscription on the bin collection dates page of the website or find out further information on the service here

Applications for commuted sums are now open!

Applications are now open for funding to help improve open spaces and play areas across Denbighshire.

Funding totalling £101,064.42 is available to support local projects.

The funding comes from commuted sums, which are payments made by developers when it is not possible to provide outdoor open space as part of a new development. These funds are set aside to enhance parks, play areas and other open spaces, usually within the same town or community where the development took place. In some cases, the money can also be used to benefit nearby communities within Denbighshire.

A range of organisations can apply for funding, including:

• City, town and community councils
• Community and voluntary groups
• Charities
• Public sector organisations
• Amateur sports clubs
• Denbighshire County Council

Councillor Rhys Thomas, Lead Member for Housing and Communities said:

“Commuted sums funding plays an important role in helping us protect and enhance open spaces and play areas across Denbighshire. This investment helps ensure that local communities continue to benefit from safe, welcoming and well-maintained spaces that support wellbeing, play and community life. I would encourage eligible organisations to consider applying and to take advantage of this opportunity to make a positive difference in their local area.”

The funding closes for applications on 20 April 2026. Further information and application forms is available online here: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/commutedsums.

The amount of funding available, and in which areas is listed below:

Garden waste subscription renewal now live

Denbighshire gardeners who use the garden waste service can now renew their subscription.

Renewal for 2026 to 2027 is now open to make sure there is time for everyone to sign up before the new service period starts from April 1.

The Council is encouraging residents who are subscribing for the first time also take advantage of this sign-up period to take full advantage of the 12-month service.

Residents are encouraged to renew their collection service online using the link below:

https://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/bins-and-recycling/garden-waste.aspx

The two weekly garden waste service offers residents a convenient, cost-effective means of dealing with their garden waste and makes a significant contribution towards meeting statutory recycling targets.

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport said: “Today’s the day to renew or sign up for the 12 months garden waste collection service. I would urge residents to do this at their earliest convenience to account for the delivery time of any new containers and to and to take advantage of the full 12-month service.

Residents can check whether they have a live subscription on the bin collection dates page of the website or find out further information on the service here

Rhyl award winner grows hope for nature

An award winning young passionate supporter of nature is giving a helping hand to growing a stronger future for Denbighshire’s plants and trees.

Ellie Hughes, of Rhyl, is one of a growing band of people joining a community of volunteers at the Council’s local provenance tree nursery at St Asaph.

Driven by a passion for all things nature, Ellie can be easily spotted at nature reserves across the north of the county, rolling up her sleeves to help countryside rangers with seasonal nature tasks.

And with her love of the outdoors taking her to the tree nursery community, Ellie was also recently honoured by receiving the Bionet, the Nature Partnership for North East Wales Young Person award for 2025 for her dedication to helping her local nature.

County Voice caught up with Ellie whilst she was volunteering at the tree nursery to find out a little bit about her award-winning drive to support nature on her doorstep.

Ellie who studied at Coleg Cambria Northop and Coleg Llysfasi, joined the tree nursery community of volunteers in March last year and has become a regular each week, fitting it in alongside volunteering through Nature for Health to also help out on Denbighshire Countryside Service sites.

Remembering how she first came to find the nursery, Ellie said: “It was close by, and I was in college at the time and Wednesdays were my day off, my dad said why don’t you go there to volunteer.”

The tree nursery which grows local provenance trees and wildflowers from seed collected across the county provides a chance to develop new skills and learn more about nature due to it being situated on the Green Gates nature reserve which covers 70 acres of land.

Ellie explained: “I enjoy being outside helping nature and the healthy side of being outside.  I like meeting the other volunteers and helping out here as it is a nature reserve and working in the poly tunnels and been with the trees all the time. “I’ve seen a robin come into the tunnels; I saw a grey squirrel the other day as well outside.”

Thanks to the support of staff on site and volunteer community, Ellie admits that coming to the tree nursery has also helped her learn and develop new skills.

She said: “I’ve learned many, I learnt how to sow seeds, to make things to help with the growing…. the tree planting out in the fields, I think I helped plant about a thousand. I get to know people, know what they do, what they do as a job, it’s quite cool. I get to learn from their own skills as well when they help me.

And what’s her words to anyone who maybe be interested in having a go at learning down at the tree nursery?

She added: “I’d say go for it; it’s a great opportunity learn great skills to maybe get a future job in work like this. The staff are both very nice, they are great to talk to, show me new skills and they help me understand more about what they do here.”

Sam Brown Tree Nursery Assistant said: “Ellie is such a joy to have down here and she amazes us each week with her commitment to helping out, learning new skills and developing her knowledge on our local nature in Denbighshire.

“She’s a big part of the fantastic community of volunteers we have at the tree nursery, and we are so proud of her for winning the Bionet Young Persons award as her passion for helping the project and what we have outdoors is just inspirational.”

If you would like to volunteer at the tree nursery please email with your details biodiversity@denbighshire.gov.uk

Josh’s Journey

Due to a relationship break down, Josh, who is 34, found himself seeking the Council’s homelessness team’s help at the start of last year. In February of 2025 Josh was placed in temporary accommodation and was assigned a homeless support practitioner.

Josh

“I was homeless at the start of last year. I had been in homeless before and was placed in temporary accommodation previously, but I wasn’t in the right mindset previously to try and sort out my wider situation.

I was only in there briefly this time. I was asking everyone, trying to find a flat of my own. I eventually found one and moved out of temporary accommodation quite quickly.”

A month later, Josh had found himself privately rented accommodation to live in and was looking to write the chapter in his story.

“Whilst I was in temporary accommodation, my homeless support practitioner mentioned the intuitive thinking skills courses to me.

I was a little sceptical about doing the courses at first, but I didn’t realise until I sat them, that really, I had nothing to lose, and everything to gain from giving them a go.

I started the courses in April and March. I did the skills to life course first, which I really enjoyed and learned a lot from.

It teaches you how to deal with your own mindset, and how you think about problems. I used to really struggle with my confidence and doubt myself all the time.

They asked me at the start of the course what I would like to improve on, and so I put down work on my confidence.”

Josh then went on to take the Information, advice and guidance course, and dove deeper into his learning.

“I went on to do the Information, advice and guidance course, which taught me some more technical aspects. I would be put in other people's shoes, and I learned how to help those who may be more vulnerable.

I learned how to help others who may be in circumstances such as homelessness or maybe struggle with substance misuse.”

In early summer, Josh was offered an ambassador placement with the Intuitive Thinking team, with the hopes of that scheme then leading to a permanent job within the team itself.

“I was really buzzing as that was the placement I wanted the most out of the ones that were offered to me. I learned to give speeches and administer training by shadowing members of the team. That helped my confidence so much, standing up and speaking in front of people. I was terrified at first, but it got easier and easier over time.

I was about two months into my placement with the team when I got offered a job in the energy sector which I felt I just couldn't turn down.

The skills I learned during the courses I took, and my placement have given me so much confidence in my new role. This job is so different from what I’ve done previously, and these new skills have given me the confidence to go and try something new. That’s the main take away for me.

I was very much set in my ways of staying in my comfort zone before I did these courses. I would just do what I’d always done, but ultimately, I kept getting the same results. I feel like I spent years at a standstill really.

Since I’ve sat these courses, I’ve never felt better in my life. It sounds crazy to say that a course can change that, but I learned why I am thinking things and how to deal with those thoughts.”

Josh has chosen more positive ways to ways to pass the time.

“I have chosen more healthy options in life now, I struggled with boredom when I got sober about four years ago, I needed different outlets.

I started playing golf and going to the gym. I am now a member at Rhyl Golf Club.”

Josh has now graduated from the Intuitive thinking courses, with a number of certificates under his belt, and is enjoying his new role in the energy sector.

“I think these courses would benefit everyone; you don’t have to be in a bad position to take it. You can’t lose anything from learning from this course, as long as you are invested in it, you’re going to benefit from it.

People have said that they can see a change in my confidence. From where I was in February,  to where I am now, it feels like two different people. I felt lost and had no hope really. It taught me to think differently and rationally think about situations. It has helped me to gain the focus and drive to get what I want.

It was like a snowball effect, as soon as I decided to start helping myself, things got gradually better.”

Nursery nurtures new knowledge for Prestatyn volunteer

A growing band of community volunteers are finding their nature knowledge is blooming thanks to supporting a project designed to help local biodiversity.

The Council’s local provenance tree nursery at St Asaph is not just growing trees and plants found across Denbighshire, but also a strong community of volunteers who are nurturing new skills and knowledge thanks to visiting the site.

Janet Davidson, of Prestatyn, joined the community in June last year due to the strong social wellbeing aspect and flexibility that volunteering provides at the tree nursery.

She said: “I was new in the area, and I was looking for a volunteer activity that suited my personality as I’m not terribly a people person. I’ve always had an interest in horticulture and so this was ideal really. The times that are available for volunteers suited my needs so it all just seemed like a win-win really.

“It’s also really flexible so if you can’t make it one week, it’s very very easy going. “You get to do a variety of things which really does suit me. “

Becoming a member of the nursery’s community of volunteers has opened the door to new skills and knowledge for Janet who comes from a food manufacturing background.

“It’s like the use that trees are put to, the types, the varieties. For instance, I hadn’t appreciated the different terrains the two native oaks required. We have opportunities to learn each week here. There’s always something like learning about the black poplars, the challenges the team has tracking and making sure everything is traceable… that’s particularly interesting.”

The community of volunteers at the nursery are also bringing their own career skills to the site which is giving staff the chance to work with them to really shape the future of the nursery, explained Janet.

“Some elements are transposable from different industries, so traceability between food and trees, there are large chunks of it that are applicable. It all provides the team here another resource to bounce ideas around.

Turning to the new friends made at the tree nursery since last June, Janet added: “They are a very friendly bunch of people here and you feel it has a really good purpose to it and feels like it’s worthwhile.

“There’s usually a different crowd as not everyone can make it every week, you don’t know who is going to be here, but you know everybody that might be. That’s really good from a social point of view.  There’s a real good diverse group of people that come and I think it’s better for that.”

Since blooming into life, the community of volunteers has become a staple fixture at the nursery grounds and they all enjoy rolling up their sleeves with the staff to make a difference for local biodiversity, Janet explained.

“Anything here is really a team effort. It’s not about individuals; it is about just chipping away, getting the stuff either in the pots or out of the pots or there’s quite a bit of maintenance stuff that you need to be prepared to do if you are here.

“You can’t expect to be planting oak trees every week, but when you do it’s a privilege, it is quite satisfying, I think it’s rewarding just turning up here. The team will direct us to what the week's activities are, and you just crack on then, and it is also nice and informal, and I really like that.”

Janet added: “Coming here you just feel better for it, I recommend it really, it’s no strings attached as well so you can come and do your thing and have a really nice time and then go and come next week and not have any stress associated with it.”

If you would like to volunteer at the tree nursery, please email with your details biodiversity@denbighshire.gov.uk

Restoring the Past, Building the Future: Nantclwyd y Dre

Ruthin is a town is steeped in history. Razed to the ground by Owain Glyndwr in the year 1400, the historic feel of the town as we know it today comes in large part from the timber-framed vernacular style of architecture which was used during the town’s reconstruction.

Among the charming streets and historic frontages sits an important piece of Ruthin’s built heritage. Originally built in 1435 as a weaver’s hall house, Nantclwyd y Dre boasts nearly 600 years of local history and is one of the oldest timber-framed townhouses in Wales open to the public.

Now managed by the Denbighshire Heritage Service, visitors to Nantclwyd y Dre historic house and gardens can relive the house’s fascinating past through immersive soundscapes, interiors and exhibits that give a captivating insight into what life was like for the families that lived there.

In 2023, funding was granted to restore parts of the site as the UK Government confirmed their intention to provide £10.95 million of grant funding for 10 capital projects aimed at protecting Ruthin’s unique heritage, wellbeing, and rural communities.

This funding, known as the Local Regeneration Fund (LRF), was awarded exclusively for successful projects included in Clwyd West and cannot be directed to other projects.

As one of the successful projects, £667,000 was allocated to redevelop some currently unused parts of the house in need of some repair to preserve this important piece of local heritage for generations to come, create new opportunities for the attraction to improve its future sustainability and make some exciting additions to the visitor experience.

Construction works began in October, focussing on bringing the largely unused west wing of the property back to life. This section of the house will become a small holiday let, designed and furnished in keeping with the historic nature of the building, and see improved facilities on the first floor with a dedicated space for the weekly volunteers who are a critical and valued part of the day-to-day workings at Nantclwyd.

However, before the works could begin, one set of longstanding residents needed to be taking into consideration. Denbighshire County Council consulted with ecologists to ensure that the planned developments would not disturb the resident protected bat maternity roost, which houses a significant number of the Pipistrelle and Lesser-Horseshoe population in Wales. Contractors were given specialist training, and a large bat shelter was installed in the garden, giving the winged residents an additional space to thrive.

The planned improvements will also make the kitchen area more suitable for event catering, and the summerhouse will be restored to its former glory for visitors to enjoy during the summer months, also serving as an additional space for the ceremonies taking place at the historic house such as weddings and civil partnership ceremonies.

Undertaken by B&W builders & decorators alongside TACP Architects, the project is expected to be completed by April 2026. A more sustainable approach to the improvement works has also been implemented through using wool to insulate the building rather than the more widely used oil-based insulation which emits higher carbon emissions and isn’t renewable.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“The beginning of these improvement works to Nantclwyd y Dre serves as a major milestone in securing the future of such a prominent historical site that sits at the heart of Ruthin. 

“Nantclwyd is as a great visitor attraction and community hub for our dedicated volunteers, and we are looking forward to seeing the newly developed spaces being enjoyed and used by visitors.

“The wellbeing of the bat population will remain as a priority whilst the works are being carried out, and we will be in continuous communications with the ecologists throughout the completion of the works”.

Career change for St Asaph man helps build continued support for frontline service

A career change with help from a council scheme has inspired a St Asaph man into stepping forward to help make a difference for local Denbighshire communities and the county environment.

County Voice sat down recently with Waste and Recycling Relief Team Leader Owen Lokier to find out how a decision to jump career tracks has helped gather knowledge and experience in the service on a professional and personal level.

Owen said: “Originally I was an engineer; I worked in the steel industry as a fabricator and welder and just basically fancied a change in career

“In January 2022 I saw an advert for the Working Denbighshire scheme for refuse collectors, so I decided I’d go and give that a shot. I started that in the January, it was a three-month scheme based in Ruthin, and off the back of that I ended up landing a full-time contract with the council as a refuse loader. The Working Denbighshire scheme was definitely a positive for this.”

Operating as a loader for 12 months, an opportunity came for Owen to expand his skills in the service.

“My line manager gave me the opportunity to drive our smaller cage vehicles a couple of days a week. This was mainly driving up to the farms, rural areas. It was based in the south, from Trefnant all the way down to Llangollen, it gave me an insight into the driving side of the service. “

The wheels of progression in the service did not stop there for Owen as spurred on by operating the smaller class of vehicle, he decided to go and do the class two LGV licence through a Welsh Government backed scheme.

“This gave me the opportunity to progress into the role of a full time driver that came available. So, I had worked my way with Working Denbighshire’s help to a grade two loader, to a grade four driving a smaller cage vehicle and then with my LGV licence I became a grade five.

“That was where I was up to until we came to Denbigh in June 2024, I was what you would call a floater at the site, I’d cover lads on sickness and one of the benefits to that was I was able to learn a lot of different rounds across the county which gave me s lot of knowledge.

“It came with its challenges as one day you could be doing something and the next day something completely different, but I liked the variety of it and also working with different teams.”

Getting to meet a lot of the service workforce helped Owen into a position to use his experience to support the service even stronger as in November 2024 he alongside another colleague was successful in applying for two relief team leader posts that help cover sickness and annual leave management from the office.

Waste and Recycling staff can also access training opportunities and whilst carrying out his current role, Owen is also working towards more qualifications with the support of Cambrian Training.

He explained: “I enrolled on a Level 3 Diploma for Sustainable Recycling Activities (Supervisory) course which I’m currently studying for. I’m hoping to progress as well from this to a level 4 NVQ to keep working my way up.

“Bev from Cambrian is very helpful, she understands that learners have different ways of learning, I like to have a bit freer rein doing the coursework, we meet once a month and I will go away and try to do a lot of it in my own time.”

Changing careers to make a difference to the local environment by helping residents with their recycling and waste, also means a lot more time engaging with county communities according to Owen.

He said: “I enjoy working outdoors and I enjoy engaging with the public which is quite a big one because you do have some positive and also some negative engagement, but I always try to turn the negatives into a positive.

“One thing I’ve always said is refuse collectors they are a part of the council that everyone in the public sees every week of their lives.

“If someone’s’ got a problem with the pavements, with the roads, we do hear that and we always try to turn it into a positive and a lot of positives do come out of it, especially around this time of year at Christmas and New Year when you look at the lads and how grateful the public are for them being out there in all weathers 52 weeks of the year.

“Also, for the elder community the refuse collectors might be the only person bar the postman that they may see in the week, so when I was on the rounds I’d try to take a couple of minutes just to say hello, how are you. That goes a long way for them as well.

He added: “Overall, as a career it’s great, it’s working outdoors, good for the environment as well.”

And what is Owen’s advice to someone who is considering a track change into the service?

He said: “I think the council is a great authority to work for. You get out of it what you put in. So, if you show you’re enthusiastic, flexible and willing to help others out that’s a great help. Teamwork, that’s a massive factor in this line of work…just don’t stop, show the willingness to learn and keep having your goals.”

Brickfield’s best for birds

A Rhyl nature reserve is providing a haven for all varieties of birds according to an experienced local birdwatcher.

For well over a decade, Alex Humphreys Jones, originally from St Asaph, has been tracking the comings and goings of bird species at Brickfield Pond Nature Reserve. Managed by Denbighshire’s Countryside Service, Alex has found the site to be a haven for over 100 different species during his visits the reserve.

County Voice sat down with Alex to find out his visits to Brickfield and how work by countryside rangers and volunteers has helped create a great environment for some notable feathered guests.

Is birdwatching one of your hobbies, if so what do you enjoy about it?

Birdwatching is a huge passion of mine and it plays a part in my life every day. I enjoy birdwatching on a local, national and worldwide scale. This is a hobby that has taken me across the country and around the world. Birdwatching comes with its various levels of difficulty from identifying a species to finding your own rarity and I enjoy all aspects.  

How many years and how often do you come down to Brickfield Pond?

I have been coming down to the Brickfield Pond since 2013 after identifying the site as a thriving area for birds and wildlife. It's also an easy site to access and fits around my work commitments where I can incidentally come down and walk around all within 30 minutes. I aim to get down at least a couple of times a week but this can vary on season. 

Have you noticed an increase in species numbers, if so from when?

I use an online bird recording app called BirdTrack which is a free platform for birdwatchers in Britain to log their sightings. BirdTrack helps form a list and produces tables and graphs with my bird data. Since visiting the Brickfield ponds, I have recorded 112 different bird species with 4 new species seen in 2025 (the first new species for me since 2022).

How many have you recorded for 2025 and what's the most notable ones you have seen at the site?

This year (2025), I have recorded 78 species at the Brickfield Pond with Goshawk, Woodcock, Spotted Flycatcher and Red Kite being notable for the site. Back in June, the Brickfield Pond hosted a Black-crowned Night Heron which proved to be the first record of this species in North Wales since 1993. 

The Brickfield Pond is essential for many waterbird species such as Great Crested Grebe, Kingfisher, Goosander and Tufted Duck, however it is just as important for migrant birds on passage. It has been known to be one of the first sites to record Sand Martin in North Wales in Spring and remarkably record 4 Yellow-browed Warblers (a scarce North Wales vagrant) from Siberia over the last 10 years in autumn. Cetti's Warbler use to be absent from North Wales, however the Brickfield Pond was one of the first sites to record one in Denbighshire and in recent years, it is believed that they have colonised and bred. 

Over the years, I have found some notable records locally such as Firecrest (Dec 2015), Waxwings (Dec 2016), Slavonian Grebe (Nov 2018), 3 Yellow-browed Warblers (2016, 2018, 2019) and a long-staying Iceland Gull (Jan-Apr 2021). 

Lastly – what’s your favourite bird species?

This is a really difficult question as there are so many species to choose from however, I particularly like a group of birds otherwise known as hirundines/swifts. In Britain, we know them as Swallows, House Martins and Swifts - all known for their vast migrations and their powerful, acrobatic flight. 

Countryside ranger Vitor Evora, who helps manage Brickfield Pond, said: “It’s great to know that people like Alex are getting so much enjoyment out of the reserve and even better to see that the site is really giving a helping hand to all kinds of bird species through the seasons.

“We’ve worked hard to develop the site both for visitors and wildlife, and we hope that bird numbers will continue to be strong, providing a great place for birdwatchers young and old to visit.”

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.

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.”

Trading Standards Team to host free electric blanket testing session

Denbighshire County Council’s Trading Standards team are set to host a free electric blanket testing session at Llangollen Library on the 26 February.

The Trading Standards Team will be screen testing the blankets and will test any double or single electric blanket as long as all leads, controls and plugs associated with the electric blankets are brought along for testing.

No appointments are necessary, and the drop-in session will run from 10.00 until 13:00. If electric blankets are found to have failed the safety test, a new one will be provided free of charge (subject to availability). Any blankets over 10 years old will automatically fail.

Councillor Alan James, Lead Member for Local Development and Planning said:

“Electric blankets have become more and more popular as the colder weather has increased. Whilst they are great for keeping warm, it is important that they are maintained properly to ensure that they are safe.

“I would encourage Denbighshire residents to pop into one of the drop-in sessions to learn more about these blankets.”

For more information about Denbighshire County Council’s Trading Standards Team, click here. 

For more information about this event please contact 01824 706057.

Streetscene work

This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

UK Shared Prosperity Fund Transitional Year Funding helped provide a boost for tourism during the 2025 summer season.

Denbighshire County Council’s Streetscene service successfuly secured this UK funding during the summer season to enable the team to deliver enhanced street cleansing services throughout the peak tourism months.

The funding enabled the Service to deliver clean and welcoming public realm areas in our main tourism towns throughout the summer season.

Have a look at some examples of before and after work from the team during the 2025 summer season below.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.

For more information, visit UK Shared Prosperity Fund: prospectus - GOV.UK 

Ruthin St Peter’s Square Public Realm Improvements

In 2023, the UK Government confirmed their intention to provide £10.95 million of grant funding for ten capital projects aimed at protecting Ruthin’s unique heritage, wellbeing, and rural communities. This funding has been awarded exclusively for successful projects included in Clwyd West and cannot be directed to other projects.

Undertaken by OBR Construction, the proposed works to St Peter’s Square will look to widen the scope for hosting events, revitalise historical buildings and landmarks to support local identity, and promote pride of place by boosting the image of the town.

The Contractor will begin by setting up their site compound from 9^th February 2026. The works will then commence with minor works and surveys from 23^rd February, and preparations will be made for the works area ahead of the material deliveries in March. To help the Contractor set up smoothly and avoid any delays or potential damage to vehicles, we kindly ask that the area of the public car park at Park Road (highlighted on the image below as the Contractor's Compound) is kept clear of vehicles before 9^th February 2026. 

Pedestrian access across all public rights of way will be maintained at all times, and half of the car park closest to Texaco petrol station will remain open for residents and public parking.

We understand that works in the town centre can be inconvenient, and the Contractor will ensure disruption is kept to a minimum at all times. The works will be carried out in phases so that only small areas are affected at any one time. Details of each phase will be confirmed as soon as possible, and notice will be provided to all residents and businesses in the affected areas a week prior to the works commencing. Works will be carried out between 8:00am and 6:00pm Monday to Friday. If work is needed outside of these hours, we will again provide advance notice.

Throughout the project, pedestrian access will be managed, temporary ramps will be provided for accessibility, clear signage and secure barriers will be in place. Access to properties and businesses will be managed, with assistance available if required.

A dedicated Business/Public Liaison Officer will be available throughout the works to help with queries and access arrangements, and they can be contacted via e-mail: RuthinEnquiries@OBRConstruction.com.

Thank you very much in advance for your patience and understanding while these improvements are carried out. We look forward to delivering a completed scheme that will benefit residents, businesses and visitors to Ruthin. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us: RuthinEnquiries@OBRConstruction.com or corporateprogrammeoffice@denbighshire.gov.uk

Financial help towards school uniform and free school meals

There is financial help available towards the cost of a school uniform and free school meals.

Further information on whether you are eligible can be found on the poster below.

To apply visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/benefits or scan the QR code.

Road maintenance update for February

Our Highways department undertake maintenance schemes across the county.

We are responsible for the maintenance and repair of 1,400 kilometres of Denbighshire roads. Our teams carry out a regular programme of works to maintain and improve our roads, which ranges from the repair of potholes right up to resurfacing schemes.

Roads may need to be closed for us to carry out the patching, drainage and other supporting works.

February's strategic Highways work is listed below:

Dates of work may be subject to change due to the weather or other external factors.

For all roadwork information across Denbighshire roads including other Council services and utility companies please visit this link for further information.

Update on Coronation Gardens Changing Room Facility

Denbighshire County Council is looking for a partner organisation to manage and operate the Changing Room building facility in Coronation Gardens Rhyl.

The facility will be necessarily made available to all sports organizations operating at the Gardens site.

The successful interested party will be wholly responsible for the upkeep of the building, opening and closing the facility as well as taking bookings in a suitable manner by phone or email.

It is envisaged that the successful interested party will enter into a lease arrangement with the Council as the landlord with defined responsibilities for repair together with management obligations.

Interested parties should send an email to:property.services@denbighshire.gov.uk which should be clearly titled “Coronation Gardens Changing facility“ by (December 24)

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:

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

The council's trading standards team warn residents of potential scams this Christmas

The festive period poses an increased risk of being caught out by scams. The council’s trading standards team share some useful tips to avoid getting scammed this Christmas. 

🎄Social media

Fake social media accounts can copy genuine retailer accounts, with posts from these accounts often including links to fake websites. If goods are ordered it is likely that you will not receive them.

When shopping online always search for a website directly through a browser and check that the website contains all the contact details of the seller and a contact address.

🎄Fake websites

Fraudsters can create websites that look identical to genuine reputable websites.

It can be hard to spot a fake website. Get Safe Online has a checker tool which allows you to check if a website is likely to be legitimate or a scam before you visit it. For more information visit - https://www.getsafeonline.org/checkawebsite/

🎄Delivery scams

Delivery scams are very common. Often you will receive a text, or email advising a parcel couldn’t be delivered for some reason and you are directed to use a link to pay a fee to reschedule delivery.

These scams give criminals access to personal and financial information.

Never click on links in delivery texts or emails, if you are expecting a parcel - track it and contact the delivery company through their genuine website.

If you get a scam email forward it to the National Security Cyber Centre report@phishing.gov.uk.

If you get a scam text message forward it to 7726, it will go to your phone provider, and they’ll investigate the matter further.  

🎄 Cheap prices

If prices seem too good to be true, they often are.

Goods that are advertised cheaper than those in reputable shops may be counterfeit that have not been through necessary safety checks.

🎄Holiday scams

During the Christmas/New Year period people often start looking to book holidays.

Fraudsters advertise fake holidays, accommodation and websites in an attempt to steal your money.

🎄Ticket fraud

Ticket fraud happens when you buy tickets from an official looking website however the tickets turn out to be fake or never arrive.

When purchasing tickets online, always try and use a credit card or PayPal - Do not buy tickets through direct money transfer.

Only make purchases from sites encrypted for payments - Look for the padlock in the address bar and make sure the website begins with ‘https’.

🎄Loan fee scams

Loan fee fraud occurs where consumers are conned into paying a fee for a loan. The Financial Conduct Authority state that this fee is usually between £25 and £450 but once the fee is paid consumers never receive the loan.

🎄Loan sharks

Christmas can be an expensive time but be aware of loan sharks. These are illegal money lenders who often charge very high rates of interest.

They operate within our communities often taking advantage of vulnerable people. Illegal money lending is a criminal offence. For more information - https://stoploansharkswales.co.uk/

Further useful information can be found below:

Get Safe Online resource hub - https://www.getsafeonline.org/

Scams can be reported to Citizens Advice Consumer Service - https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/reporting-a-scam/ or they can be contacted by telephone 0808 223 1133. Welsh language line: 0808 223 1144.

Enjoying Denbighshire’s Natural Landscape safely

Advice on how to enjoy the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape and Loggerheads Country Park Safely

The first week of January has been particularly busy on Moelfamau and in Loggerheads Country Park and in advance of the forthcoming weather warning and Storm Goretti, the council is asking anyone who is planning a visit to take extra care.

The Highways Team and Countryside Rangers are working incredibly hard to keep roads, car parks and paths safe and look after the wildlife and landscape we all enjoy. Please treat them with kindness and respect — they’re out in all conditions to keep things running smoothly for visitors to enjoy.

Here are a few reminders for a safe and considerate visit:

⚠️ Stick to open paths and follow all safety signage.

🚧 Pay close attention to road closure signs — they’re there to protect you.

❄️ Be mindful of snowy and icy conditions which can make surfaces and paths slippery.

🧥 Wear appropriate clothing and prepare for your visit, especially in severe weather.

🚗 Please park considerately if you’re visiting by car. Avoid blocking driveways or narrowing roads for local residents and emergency services.

🐾 Keep dogs under close control.

Advice about dealing with extreme weather conditions

There’s a range of information and advice on Denbighshire County Council’s website. You’ll find out which roads we grit, where you can find your nearest salt bin as well as general advice about driving in wintry conditions and how to make your home safe in cold weather conditions. And for information and updates about the weather warnings, take a look at the Met Office’s web pages.

We want everyone to enjoy the beauty of our natural spaces — safely, responsibly, and respectfully. 💚

Thank you for doing your part! 👋

Did you know that 64% of the Council's budget goes on education, schools and social care?

Did you know that 64% of the Council's budget goes on education, schools and social care? A further 14% is committed to things like the Wales wide national scheme for Council Tax benefit and the levy we have to pay to the North Wales Fire and Rescue Authority which then only leaves 22% left for all other Council services including emptying bins and recycling, planning and public protection, protecting heritage attractions, transporting pupils to school.

You can learn more about where the budget goes on the news pages.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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 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.

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 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 including the agendas and decisions made.

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.

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

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.

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

Llwyn Eirin residents gather to meet their neighbours

Llwyn Eirin residents gathered at HWB Dinbych recently for a successful ‘Meet Your Neighbours’ community event.

Organised by the Council’s Housing & Communities Service, the event brought together the residents of Llwyn Eirin, who have recently moved into their new homes and partner organisations to strengthen community connections and meet their neighbours and to also highlight the wide range of support available for them in Denbigh.

Working Denbighshire’s Jobs Fair comes to Rhyl in February

Jobseekers across Denbighshire are invited to join the Working Denbighshire Jobs Fair on Wednesday, 25 February, from 10am to 2pm at the 1891 Bar & Restaurant, Rhyl Pavilion.

Held in partnership with Job Centre Plus, this free event will bring together a diverse mix of local and national employers who are actively recruiting for a wide range of roles across multiple sectors.

Building on the success of previous fairs — which have welcomed over 40–50 employers and attracted hundreds of attendees — this February’s accessible event continues Working Denbighshire’s commitment to breaking down barriers to employment and connecting people with real opportunities close to home.

Attendees can expect to meet employers representing sectors such as hospitality and leisure, health and social care, armed forces, manufacturing and more, reflecting the varied workforce needs across the region. Organisations such as the Royal Navy, North Wales Police, Haven, and a wide mix of local employers offering both entry‑level and experienced career pathways will be in attendance.

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

“Our Jobs Fair is all about creating access to opportunities for local people.

“We’re delighted to welcome a range of employers who are actively looking for candidates, and we encourage residents to come along, explore what’s available, and chat directly with organisations ready to hire.”

Melanie Evans, Principal Manager, Strategic Employment, said:

“Our job fair is a fantastic chance for residents to meet employers face-to-face and discover what’s happening across key sectors in Denbighshire. It gives them the opportunity to spark future-changing conversations, build their confidence, and show people the variety of careers available right here in our county.”

The event is free and open to everyone, including jobseekers, career changers, young people exploring options, and anyone interested in training or employment support available through Working Denbighshire.

For more information and updates, visit working.denbighshire.gov.uk or follow Working Denbighshire on social media.

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.