Essential road maintenance planned across Denbighshire

Denbighshire County Council is planning essential road maintenance at locations across the county, with the first works scheduled to begin on 2 November 2026.

The work will include gully emptying, sweeping and sign maintenance. Traffic will be managed using stop/go boards, and some delays and disruption may occur.

All works are subject to prevailing weather conditions and may be postponed at short notice in the event of adverse weather.

Planned works schedule is as follows

• A525 Upper Denbigh Road, St Asaph: From the junction of Bryn Polyn to the Tweedmill access. Work is scheduled to begin on 2 November 2026 and last for two days.
• A543 Groes Road, Denbigh: To the county boundary. Work is scheduled to begin on 2 November 2026 and last for up to five days.
• A542 Horseshoe Pass: From Dafarn Dywyrch roundabout to the Eisteddfod entrance. Work is scheduled to begin on 16 November 2026 and last for up to five days.

Councillor James Elson, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “These essential works will help improve these routes for residents and local businesses. We would like to thank everyone who uses these roads for their support patience while we carry out this important work.”

“We will make every effort to complete this work as quickly and efficiently as possible to minimise disruption to our residents.”

New ‘Active Lives’ project helps residents connect, get active and belong

New community-led project combines outdoor activities, local support and meaningful connections to help residents get involved in ways that work for them.

Residents across Denbighshire are being invited to get involved in everything from conservation projects and outdoor activities to informal community drop-ins, thanks to a new initiative designed to help people become more active, connected and involved in local life.

Launched in August 2026, the Active Lives Trailblazer project brings together two successful programmes, Actif Communities and Nature for Health, to create a county-wide offer shaped by local people and their communities.

Rather than delivering a one-size-fits-all programme, Active Lives takes a place-based approach, working with residents to understand what matters to them and developing opportunities that reflect local interests, strengths and aspirations.

The project is delivered by Denbighshire County Council's Countryside Services and Grŵp Cynefin’s community hub, HWB Dinbych, with coordination support from Denbighshire County Council's Community Resilience Team.

At Grŵp Cynefin's HWB Dinbych in Denbigh, Active Officer Meg Moores works directly with local people to understand their circumstances, identify barriers to participation and connect them with opportunities that help them become more involved in community life.

Weekly Tea and Coffee Drop-In sessions, held every Thursday, provide a welcoming space where people can meet others, access support and discover activities in a relaxed, informal environment.

The project is already responding to community feedback, with activities such as armchair exercise sessions being introduced based on what participants have said they would like to see.

This flexible approach ensures local people are shaping the project from the ground up, helping create activities that genuinely reflect the needs of the community.

Elain Lloyd, Co-ordinator at HWB Dinbych says:

“At HWB Dinbych, we see every day how important it is for people to know that support is there when they need it. Active Lives is about creating welcoming opportunities for people to get involved in ways that suit them. By listening and responding to local people and responding to what matters to them, we're helping build confidence, strengthen community connections and support wellbeing across Denbighshire.”

Active Lives also offers opportunities for people to engage with their communities through the natural environment. Delivered by Denbighshire's Countryside Services team, regular ranger-led sessions provide a welcoming way to learn new skills, improve wellbeing and spend time outdoors.

From woodland management and habitat improvement to path maintenance and practical conservation work, participants can play an active role in caring for local green spaces while building confidence, making connections and experiencing the benefits of nature.

Importantly, Active Lives recognises that traditional support services aren't for everyone. Residents can drop into HWB Dinbych for a chat over a cuppa or joining a practical outdoor session with a Countryside Ranger, ensuring the project offers a low-pressure way for people to explore new interests, meet others and become more involved in their community.

The focus is on meaningful conversations, building relationships and helping people feel connected, valued and involved within their local communities.

Tina Foulkes, Economic Inactivity Trailblazer Programme Manager at Working Denbighshire, said:

"The Active Lives Trailblazer project is all about creating opportunities that genuinely reflect the needs of local people. Through our partnership with HWB Dinbych and Countryside Services, we're helping residents improve their wellbeing, build confidence, develop new connections and become more involved in their communities. What makes this project special is that it starts with listening. Activities are shaped by the people taking part, helping ensure support is accessible, welcoming and meaningful for everyone."

Councillor Will Price, Lead Member for Planning, Countryside and Safer Communities, said:

“The Active Lives project offers residents the chance to access the support they need away from the more traditional surroundings, whilst also learning practical skills and making a visible difference to their local communities.

“Through this partnership, it’s hoped that residents can get the support that they are looking for, whilst exploring new interests, meeting new people and playing a role in caring for Denbighshire’s green spaces”.

Join the Active Lives Movement

Residents can drop into HWB Dinbych's weekly Thursday Tea and Coffee sessions or join one of the outdoor activities taking place across the county.

Upcoming sessions include woodland management, habitat improvement, path maintenance and environmental projects in locations including Rhyl, Denbigh, Corwen and Llangollen.

Countryside Services
Alice.Cousens@denbighshire.gov.uk / 07385 491616

HWB Dinbych
hwb@hwbdinbych.org / 01745 818485

Whether you're looking to meet new people, spend more time outdoors, learn new skills or simply try something different, Active Lives offers a welcoming way to get involved in your community.

Working Denbighshire is part‑funded by the UK Government and multiple programmes, including the Welsh Government’s Communities for Work Plus, the UK–Wales Trailblazer initiative targeting economic inactivity, the Local Growth Fund for Wales (LGF), and Connect to Work.

Upgrades planned for county play areas

Ten county play area are set to undergo a period of refurbishment.

Denbighshire County Council’s Streetscene Services have been successful in securing UK Government’s Pride in Place Impact Funding (PiPiF) to enable the refurbishment of the play areas located throughout the county.

These play areas have been selected due to the age profile of the equipment and health and safety concerns which have been highlighted in relation to the actual equipment or the safety play surfaces.

The ten sites selected for the upgrade works are as follows:

• Cae Canol, Trefnant
• Clos Deganwy, Bodelwyddan
• Maes-y-Dre, Ruthin
• Y-Wern, Llandrillo
• School Field, Carrog
• Nant-y-Pandy, Glyndyfrdwy
• Caed Afon, Llangollen
• Coronation Gardens, Prestatyn
• Meliden Memorial, Meliden
• Ffordd Penrhwylfa, Prestatyn

The contract to deliver this work is currently out to tender, with works expected to commence sometime in November weather and contractor availability permitting.

Each site will take varying times to complete as some play areas require more complex work than others.

Cllr James Elson, lead member for Environment and Transport said: “Our play areas are places where children can play, families can spend time together and neighbours can meet. These upgrades will give the communities much-needed safe, modern places to play, with more inclusive and accessible equipment for children with additional needs. We look forward to welcoming local families back once the work is complete so they can enjoy the improvements together.”

Changes to telephone services - Support available for Denbighshire residents

Denbighshire residents, particularly those living in rural areas, are being encouraged to seek advice if they are unsure about changes to their telephone services as the UK moves away from traditional landlines towards internet-based telephone systems.

The changes mean that traditional telephone services using copper cables are being switched off, with providers moving customers to digital telephone services that use an internet connection to make and receive calls.

For many households, particularly those with a fast fibre broadband connection, the change should be straightforward. However, residents with slower or unreliable internet connections may receive confusing or conflicting information from their telephone and internet service providers (ISPs) about what the changes mean for them.

Under Ofcom rules, providers must follow certain requirements when moving customers to digital telephone services. These include ensuring that customers are not left without a telephone service, providing additional protection for people who are classed as vulnerable, and continuing to make social tariffs available to eligible customers on low incomes or receiving certain benefits, such as Universal Credit.

Another important consideration is what happens during a power cut. Traditional landlines generally receive power through the telephone network, but digital telephone services rely on electricity to power the router and other equipment. This means that, without a suitable backup power supply, a digital phone may not work during a power cut.

Residents who are concerned about their telephone service, have received confusing information from their provider or are unsure whether their internet connection is suitable for the change are encouraged to seek advice before making decisions about their service.

Philip Burrows, Denbighshire County Council’s Digital and New Technologies Officer, is available to help residents understand the changes, explore their options and find out where to access further information.

Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Education & Children, Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage, said:

“We know that changes to telephone services can be confusing, particularly for people living in rural areas where internet connections may not always be reliable.

“It is important that residents understand what these changes mean for them and know where to turn if they have concerns. While the move to digital telephone services will be straightforward for many households, it is important that people who may be affected by poor connectivity, power cuts or other issues get the right advice and support.

“If you are unsure about any information you have received from your telephone or internet provider, or simply want to understand your options, please get in touch with our Digital and New Technologies Officer, Philip Burrows, who will be happy to help.”

Residents can contact Philip by emailing philip.burrows@denbighshire.gov.uk.

Childcare centre takes delivery of greener transport

A Rhyl childcare centre has welcomed a greener mode of transport to assist with the services provided from it.

Denbighshire County Council’s Fleet Services has handed over a new electric Toyota ProAce Verso 9 Seat Minibus to the Oak Tree Centre.

The new vehicle is part of the Council’s Fleet Service’s continuing work to transition to less reliance on fossil fuelled vehicles where appropriate to help cut down on running and maintenance costs and lower overall carbon emissions.

Following the declaration by the Council in 2019 of a climate and nature emergency, Fleet Services has been adopting zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) into its fleet. Currently, more than 20% of its vehicles are made up of ZEVs.

Staff also take part in a training package run by Fleet which includes how to utilise the EV charging infrastructure safely and efficiently, making use of regenerative braking systems, and when to select a 'driving mode' based on conditions or payloads.

The electric minibus, which provides over 200miles of driving range, will support the centre which provides the Little Acorns childcare service, Play Ranger service and also assist with the provision of family information support. The vehicle has received funding support from the Welsh Government Energy Service.

This new addition brings the number of EV’s in the Oak Tree Centre fleet to five.

Cllr James Elson, lead member for Environment and Transport said: “The minibus will help Oak Tree staff to maintain their provision of services to children and their families in Rhyl and the surrounding areas whilst providing greener mileage for the childcare centre, lowering  long-term costs for miles and regular maintenance.”

Seasonal enhancement work set for county meadows

A number of Denbighshire wildflower meadows are set to receive a local boost sourced from other county sites.

The Council’s Biodiversity and Streetscene teams have planned work to support the establishment and diversity of some of the county’s wildflower meadow sites this autumn.

Established in 2019, the Wildflower Meadow Project now includes nearly 70 acres of native wildflower habitat across the county, supporting local nature, improving biodiversity and contributing to community wellbeing.

The work has been supported by Welsh Government funding through the Local Places for Nature funding.

Enhancement work will take place at seven identified county meadows this autumn and will receive a helping hand from seeds harvested at other sites in the project.

Work has been ongoing to cut and collect the grass at the meadows during the second cut of the project season to further strip the sites of nutrients and allow further wildflower species to establish.

Cuttings have been processed at the Council’s Tree Nursery and the seeds collected from them will be sown at the meadows selected by the Biodiversity team in the project to help them become more diverse and bloom next year.

The scarification work will involve Streetscene teams raking the grass or using a scarifier to expose bare soil and create space for new wildflower seeds to germinate and establish. Benefits of doing this are to reduce grass competition, promote seed germination and encourage increased biodiversity by boosting the diversity of wildflowers.

Cllr James Elson, lead member for Environment and Transport said: “We have worked to make sure we have collected the grass cuttings off our most diverse meadows to provide a really strong ‘Denbighshire’ seed mix we can spread on the sites we have selected for enhancement. What we have is a good mix of plants that will bring variety to these sites and stronger support for local nature.

“Enhancing the meadows provides benefits for everybody, not just nature, with community benefits including improved air quality, urban heat cooling, physical and mental wellbeing and areas of mixed interest for education and play.”

Online resources available for Denbighshire parents and carers

Parents and carers across Denbighshire are being reminded that they can access a wide range of online resources to support family relationships, parenting and emotional wellbeing, funded through the Council.

These evidence-based resources give Denbighshire parents, carers and families flexible support throughout their parenting journey.

The resources are designed for parents, carers and grandparents and focus on children’s emotional health and wellbeing. They cover sensitive relationships, early years support and brain development, helping families nurture kind, emotionally aware children as they grow.

The course, which is named ‘Togetherness online’ is embedded throughout every aspect of learning and is underpinned by sound, well-researched ideas developed by a team of clinical psychologists and a range of professional practitioners.   

Over 4,700 parents and guardians in Denbighshire are already registered as online learners.

Resources are available in numerous languages and include:

• Online ante-natal & post-natal courses (including specialist support for NICU parents).
• Understanding your child from toddler to teenager, with a tailored course for additional needs.
• Understanding Adolescence courses (for both parents and young people)
• Courses supporting parent's emotional wellbeing and relationships.

Online resources can be accessed anytime and anywhere. Courses are self-paced, private and personal to each learner.

Denbighshire families can access the free resources by visiting by following the registration process and enter the free access code or by entering their Denbighshire postcode into the "Find out if you are in a free area" checker to get free access: www.togetherness.co.uk/learn

Residents of Denbighshire can use the Free Access code: NWSOL.

Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Education, Families, Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage said:

“Families can choose learning suited to every stage of the parenting journey, from pregnancy to adolescence.

These courses can help parents and carers to understand children development, and behaviour.

This partnership supports the council’s commitment to support a learning and growing Denbighshire and to build happier, healthier and stronger communities.”

Give your pumpkin a greener afterlife this Halloween

Denbighshire County Council is reminding residents to recycle their Halloween items this year.

Many households will soon be carving pumpkins ready for Halloween.

After Halloween, put your pumpkin in your food waste caddy, not your general waste bin. Remove all candles and decorations first. Do not leave pumpkins in the garden or outside after 31 October, as they can harm animals such as hedgehogs.

Reuse your Halloween decorations each year to save money and materials. If you no longer need them, donate them to a local charity shop.

If decorations cannot be reused, put them in the correct container at home or take them to a Recycling and Waste Park.

Reuse Halloween costumes each year. If you no longer need them, donate them to a local charity shop.

Batteries from decorations can be recycled using the correct container for the recycling and waste collection service, or at a Recycling and Waste Park. Use rechargeable batteries where possible.

Councillor James Elson, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “Halloween is an exciting time for residents of all ages. Many homes and events display costumes and decorations. Please remember to recycle properly. Our recycling services can help everyone enjoy a spooky and greener Halloween.”

For help with recycling please visit the Council’s A to Z Recycling guide 

Clwydian Limestone Links project begin works to remove non-native invasive species

Work to tackle non-native invasive species of cotoneaster from Prestatyn Hillside, Graig Fawr and Moel Hiraddug has progressed to the next stage.

Following recent surveying and mapping earlier this year, work has begun to remove the non-native invasive species of cotoneaster at three designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in Denbighshire.

Although cotoneaster is a popular garden plant, with the flowers attracting bees and the berries favoured by birds, it is incredibly damaging to our wild areas, especially rare habitats such as limestone (calcareous) grasslands due to its fast-growing nature, where it can dominate whole hillsides rapidly.

Often growing in hard-to-reach places, the invasive species will be carefully removed and controlled by specialist access teams BODDACC on Prestatyn Hillside and Moel Hiraddug, and by Ground Works on Graig Fawr, whilst avoiding damage to habitats and non-target species.

The Clwydian Limestone Links Project is funded by the Nature Networks Programme being delivered by the National Lottery Heritage Fund on behalf of the Welsh Government and aims to improve the resilience and condition of five SSSI limestone grassland and woodland sites in Denbighshire.

Working in partnership with Denbighshire County Council, the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape, the North Wales Wildlife Trust, the National Trust and private landowners, the project looks to facilitate management that will enhance the diversity of special features at the sites, increase the extent of the limestone grassland habitats and improve the condition of the plant communities and associated fauna.

Shannon Garside, the project’s nature networks ranger said:

“We are grateful to the private landowners and our project partners The National Trust for allowing us access to their sites for this important work, cotoneaster seeds can spread across large areas so having a joined-up approach is really important”

Councillor James Elson, Lead Member for the Environment and Transport said:

“Supporting and improving our local biodiversity is vitally important and a priority of the Council.The project will enhance the habitat connectivity within and between the protected sites by managing nature corridors through the creation and restoration of habitats that link them and limiting the effects that these invasive species are having”.

Large seizure of illegal cigarettes following joint operation

The council’s trading standards team have continued their efforts to crack down on the sale of illegal cigarettes recently in Rhyl.

Working in partnership with the Trading Standards All Wales Tobacco Team, the joint operation visited two premises in Rhyl following two successful test purchases at both locations.

Following the successful test purchases, officers revisited the two premises and seized a substantial amount of illegal cigarettes and tobacco from the first premises, whilst uncovering a series of hidden compartments used for storing illicit goods in the second location. 

Councillor Will Price, Lead Member for Planning, Countryside and Safer Communities said:

“The operation forms part of the councils ongoing work to tackle the sale of illicit tobacco and illegal vaping products, protecting legitimate businesses and helping to reduce the availability of these products on our high streets.

“This is another example of the great work that our trading standards officers are doing to take illegal products such as these off the shelves. The items seized were counterfeit and carry serious safety and health issues to those people buying and using them.

“Our residents play a vital role in identifying areas and persons of interest, which help our trading standard officers to investigate and get illegal tobacco, vapes and other products out of the community”.

Businesses can get in touch with Denbighshire’s Trading Standards Team for advice on illegal cigarette, tobacco and vaping products on Denbighshire’s website.

Voices from the Archive

New Audio Bench Brings Local History to Life in Ruthin Park

Visitors to Cae Ddol in Ruthin can now listen to stories from the history of North East Wales in a unique and engaging way thanks to the installation of a new solar-powered audio bench, funded by Welsh Government.

Situated behind the children's play area, the new bench offers park users the opportunity to sit, relax and listen to fascinating stories drawn directly from the collections of North East Wales Archives. Equipped with a simple panel of buttons and built-in speakers, the bench allows visitors of all ages to hear recordings inspired by real historical documents and personal accounts preserved in the archives.

The recordings were created in partnership with Theatr Clwyd's writers' group, Cwils. Members of the group visited North East Wales Archives to explore the collections and draw inspiration from the records they discovered. Using these archival materials, they developed a series of original scripts based on real people and events from the region's past.

The audio stories explore themes of love and loss, change and resilience, revealing how ordinary people experienced extraordinary moments in history. By sharing these voices in a public setting, the project encourages residents and visitors alike to discover that history is not distant- it is personal, relevant and belongs to everyone.

Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Education & Children, Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage said:

“This is a wonderful example of how we can bring our rich local heritage to life in a way that is accessible, engaging and enjoyable for everyone.

“The audio bench provides a unique opportunity for people to take a moment, sit back and hear stories inspired by the real people, experiences and events preserved within the collections of North East Wales Archives. It is particularly exciting to see our archive collections being shared in such an innovative way, outside of a traditional archive setting.

“Projects like this help us to connect people with the history of our communities and encourage new audiences to discover the stories that have shaped our region. I hope residents and visitors to Cae Ddol will take the opportunity to stop, listen and enjoy these fascinating voices from our past.”

The installation reflects North East Wales Archives' ongoing commitment to making the region's heritage more accessible, engaging new audiences with local history and ensuring that archival collections can be enjoyed beyond traditional archive buildings.

Visitors are encouraged to stop by the audio bench, take a seat, and discover the remarkable stories preserved within the archives of North East Wales.

About North East Wales Archives

North East Wales Archives preserves and provides access to the documentary heritage of the region. Its collections span nearly 900 years of history, from medieval records to contemporary archives, helping people explore the lives, communities and events that have shaped North East Wales.

About Cwils

Cwils is a Theatr Clwyd Community group for people to explore and build their creative writing skills. From plays to poetry, short stories to novels, it’s a place to learn and grow a love for the written word. It’s for those who are starting out on their writers journey, with the support and knowledge of Theatr Clwyd. Full details are available on the Theatr Clwyd website under “Take Part.”

Ysgol Pen Barras pupils get hands-on with the power of recycling

Ysgol Pen Barras pupils were introduced to two new mascots working to help recycling in the community during a special visit.

Denbighshire County Council’s Recycling Education Team brought the subject to life through discussions and hands-on activities designed to build pupils’ knowledge and confidence during a two-day visit to the school.

Pupils learned what happens to recyclable materials after they are collected and shared ideas about how reducing waste can benefit households, local communities and the wider environment.

Recycling mascots Troli-bob and Cadi received a warm welcome by the year groups, helping pupils identify familiar household items and decide which recycling containers they belong in.

There was plenty of teamwork as the children took part in a practical sorting game involving paper, cans, mixed plastics, glass bottles and jars. The activity showed how careful separation keeps valuable materials in use and helps reduce waste.

A highlight of the visit came when pupils met one of the named Waste and Recycling Service vehicles used to collect recyclable materials from homes across Denbighshire.

Enjoying a close-up look at the vehicle, pupils discovered how separate compartments keep materials apart during collection before they are taken to the Waste Transfer Station in Denbigh for processing.

The visit also introduced the Council’s Trolibocs system, which helps separate paper, cans and mixed plastics, and glass bottles and jars at the kerbside. Pupils saw how getting recycling right at home improves the quality of collected materials and supports efforts to cut waste and carbon emissions.

Jonathan Brittain-Hughes, Environmental Crime Manager at Denbighshire County Council, said: “It was wonderful to see the pupils at Ysgol Pen Barras askingl questions, supporting one another and getting involved in every activity. We hope they feel proud of what they learned and take that enthusiasm home, knowing that every item recycled correctly can make a difference.”

Councillor James Elson, Lead Member for the Environment and Transport, said: “Visits like this give pupils a memorable way to see recycling in action. It was fantastic to hear how warmly Ysgol Pen Barras embraced the session, and I hope the pupils will share their new knowledge with family and friends as we work together to recycle more and waste less.”

Flood Action Week Advice for residents

This week is Flood Action Week and 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 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

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

For further information visit our flood advice web page.

Give your recycling a career at the top of the world

Wales is already one of the world's best recycling nations. We're proudly sitting at No.2. But when you're this close to the top, there's only one place left to go.

This Recycle Week (14–20 September), Denbighshire County Council is backing Wales Recycles' Mighty Mission to help take Wales to the top spot, while giving some of the everyday things we use at work a chance to climb the career ladder too.

Because when you put something in the right bin, you're helping give it another job. And some of these recyclables have surprisingly impressive prospects.

1. That can’s got places to go

That empty drinks can or scrunched-up piece of sandwich foil might look like it's finished for the day, but it’s got plenty more work ahead.

Metal can be recycled again and again without losing its quality. And recycling just one can saves enough energy to power a TV for around four hours.

So put it in the right bin and send it onto its next big role.

2. The tea bag powering the next round

Back to work after the summer holidays, the office kettle has entered its busiest season. Luckily, your tea bag has more to offer than getting you through back-to-back meetings.

Recycle six tea bags and enough renewable energy can be generated to boil a kettle for another cuppa. Now that's what we call pulling your weight.

And tea bags aren't the only food waste with a bright future. Fruit peelings and other inedible food waste can also be transformed into renewable energy and nutrient-rich fertiliser.

So while you're taking a well-earned lunch break, your food waste could be getting ready for their next big project.

3. The plastic bottle with a whole new career ahead

Finished your drink? The bottle's working day might be over, but its career could just be getting started.

Recycling one plastic bottle saves enough energy to charge a laptop almost four times. That's this week's Teams calls sorted.

Plastic bottles, yogurt pots, meal deal tubs and plastic trays… give them a little rinse and put them in the right bin so they can be processed and transformed into new products and packaging.

From desk-side re-fuelling to their next big role.

From a workplace in Wales to the top of the world

The recycling you put in the right bin starts its next commute. Which actually isn’t that far away way from home. More than 90% of the recycling collected in Wales is processed in the UK, with more than half staying right here in Wales.

Once collected, materials are sorted and processed before being transformed into something new. Food waste takes a different route, helping generate renewable energy to power Wales and… your working day.

Wherever you work, recycle wherever you are

Whether you're in the office, working from home, commuting, grabbing lunch or heading out and about, recycling doesn't need to be another thing on your to-do list. Build it into your day. Find the right bin and give your recycling its next role.

 Because every item recycled correctly helps keep valuable materials in circulation, generate renewable energy and take Wales one step closer to the top spot.

We're already No.2 in the world. Let's give Wales the promotion it deserves. Let's get to No.1.

Find out more about your recycling journey at Wales Recycles

Mary’s Story

Mary lives in North Denbighshire, near Rhuallt and lives with an aggressive form of Parkinsons named Corticobasal Degeneration, meaning she needs to use a range of equipment in her home to live as comfortable as possible.

She lives with her husband Allan, who is her primary carer, members of her family, and her dog Blaze.

Mary, Allan and Blaze the dog.

Despite her diagnosis, Mary is full of energy and has a brilliant sense of humour. She has stuck to a number of her hobbies from before her diagnosis, including making arts and crafts. Mary was a very successful dog trainer in the past and still has her rosettes hanging up on the wall.

Before retiring, Mary worked as a physiotherapist in the local area.

Mary has been living with this condition for six years and started receiving the help of an Occupational Therapist, and representatives from the Community Equipment Team (CESI) within the last few years once her diagnosis became clearer and her condition progressed.

CESI is a partnership between Denbighshire County Council and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), which provides equipment for people of all ages to help them live their lives to the fullest and to maintain their health and independence. This ranges from simple aids for daily living to more complex equipment that helps people to stay in their homes for longer.

Through using this equipment, Alan and Mary don’t need to rely on formal visiting carers every day, allowing them to live as comfortably as possible at home.

An adapted bed, known as an Independence bed, was one of the first pieces of equipment that was implemented at her home. A hoist was also added to help Mary get in and out of bed easier.

The bed also moves mechanically, allowing Mary to sit up and adjust the height when needed.

With help from an Occupational Therapist, after an assessment, special sliding sheets were introduced, which helps with transfers.

Speaking about the Independence bed, Allan said:

“The bed has been a godsend really from the outset, the fact that this one drops right the way down has made a huge difference in terms of ease of use and mobility.”

With the use of a piece of equipment called a Standaid, Mary can get in and out of chairs. The Standaid also helps with transfers into and out of her wheelchair.

Mechanised toilet raisers were also installed in the home, which further helps with transfers in and out of the wheelchair and ease of use.

Speaking on her experience with the CESI, Mary said:

“The technicians are brilliant, always really pleasant when they come and assist with the equipment. They are very accommodating.

All the services have been very very good with us, there has been very good co-ordination between the different departments.”

The equipment is there to help to keep Mary as independent as possible, helping her to do the things she can do on her better days, and is there to offset days where maybe she finds it more difficult.

Mary went on to say:

“I am still doing arts and crafts, I do a form of weaving, where you make patterns into keyrings. I have made some with the St Kentigern’s craft group. I’ve made crafts all my life, and I’m glad I still have an outlet to do it.”

Becky, an Occupational Therapist who has helped Mary said:

“We work in conjunction with the CESI stores as a team, and could not do our job without their expertise and support.

They are always so accommodating and helpful, and we are very grateful for them.”

From permaculture to conservation: a career rooted in nature

For much of his working life, the career path has not been a straight line for Keegan Blazey. His life has moved through art studios, organic farms, classrooms, games design, university laboratories and, eventually, into the practical, muddy work of conservation. But looking back for the current Tree Nursery Officer at the Council’s Tree Nursery at St Asaph, the thread running through it all is clear: a desire to understand the natural world and to do something useful within it. County Voice pulls up a chair with Keegan to find out how nature has always been accompanying him through his working life.

His interest began in his 20s, when he became involved in permaculture — a way of thinking about food, land and community that goes beyond sustainable agriculture. For Keegan, it helped him connect with wider ideas about culture, spirituality, mindfulness and self-sufficiency.

He explained: “I got really into being sustainable and self-sufficient. You learn how to grow your own food because it keeps you healthy. Buddhism, mindfulness and all those things were part of what got me into it.”

Growing up in South Africa also helped shape his outlook. As during the time, water shortages, drought and rolling blackouts were part of everyday life. Keegan explains that Permaculture offered practical answers including rainwater harvesting, sustainable water use and designing systems that depend less on mains supply.

After moving over to the UK, Keegan worked mainly as an English teacher while continuing to volunteer on land-based projects. That eventually led to a role as an organic garden manager, where he ran a market garden supplying a bed and breakfast site, managed around 6 volunteers, taught English to international volunteers coming over from Europe and helped build a more circular, wildlife-friendly growing system.

The work involved ponds, wetlands, ducks, composting and closed loop growing. It brought together several parts of his background: teaching, practical gardening, sustainability and people management.

Later, his career changed tracks again. Art, which had always sat alongside his environmental interests, became his profession. Keegan moved into digital concept art, working mainly in gaming for five or six years. During the Covid pandemic, the games industry grew rapidly and the work was there — but something no longer felt right for him.

Keegan said: “I was sitting there painting medieval armour for games while the world was suffering, it just didn’t feel right.”

That realisation pushed him to test himself through an environmental science Degree at Bangor University. He admits he looked for a role where his skills could contribute to solutions, and this route gave him the technical grounding to move into research. Environmental science helped provide him a broader outlook as it not only at protecting nature, but at how people and the environment can work together.

A placement in forestry research became a major turning point for Keegan. He worked as a research technician on climate change experiments with the Birmingham Institute of Forest Research, helping gather and process field and laboratory data. He explained the work was very ‘detailed’, soil tests, water tests, tree and root measurements, data collection and analysis all kept him busy.

“At one point, I spent months washing soil from oak roots, separating them by hand, scanning them and passing the results on for analysis, he says with a smile.

But it provided a solid grounding in fieldwork, data and experimental process, which has helped with his current role as Tree Nursery Officer.

During his degree, Keegan explained he also focused on soil science and completed a dissertation on microplastics, using Denbighshire’s own local wildflower meadow sites as part of his research.

The project looked at microplastic movement in soil alongside carbon, moisture and compaction, measures used to understand soil health and land management.

Chatting with County Voice, Keegan admits he still hopes to complete a research focused PhD one day, but for now sees practical experience as the best next step.

Sitting in one of the nursery tunnels, it’s evident that Keegan’s scientific background is helping push forward the site’s aim to protect local biodiversity with positive results of his Aspen growing experiment beside him as the talk continues, with sea holly grown in the background and new wildflower beds replenishing seed stock on the nursery’s doorstep.

“It’s been a huge learning curve,” he says. “But I’ve had experience of the skills I needed coming in. The details matter in research, but I’ve also learned what level of data we actually do need here.I’m surrounded by an amazing team guiding and supporting me along the way and I wouldn’t have been able to cope without them."

Before County Voices closes the chat, we ask how he feels about the Tree Nursery Officer role he took on in 2025, another smile emerges: “This is the best job I’ve ever had. The prospects in terms of what we’re doing and what we’re trying to achieve at the nursery are incredible. Everyone I talk to is jealous of what I do.”

Tackling the impact of climate change issues on the land locally is not without challenges, but for Keegan, that is part of the point.

He says: “Most climate change and nature enhancement work feels impossible…But it’s important that we try.”

What began with permaculture and a search for self-sufficiency has grown into a career for Keegan built around restoration, resilience and the belief that even striving to conquer difficult environmental work is worth doing, evident at the many green shoots of progress appearing at the Tree Nursery.

Property section projects support communities across Denbighshire

Over the past 12 months, Denbighshire County Council’s Property section has continued to play a vital role in supporting services, communities and residents across the county.

From delivering improvement works and maintaining public buildings to supporting major projects and ensuring council assets are safe, efficient and fit for purpose, the teams within the section have been involved in a wide range of important work.

County Voice looks back at some of the key projects completed during the year, highlighting the dedication, expertise and collaboration of the different teams that help manage and improve Denbighshire’s property estate.

Since last year the Building Maintenance team has supported major improvement works at Ysgol Dewi Sant in Rhyl, helping to modernise and transform the school’s hall wing.

This project included roof reconstruction, improved insulation, replacement high-performance double-glazed windows, upgraded access arrangements and the modernisation of the foyer and entrance area, including the addition of a lift to improve accessibility.

The works helped improve energy efficiency, reduced the school’s carbon footprint and created a safer, more accessible and modern space for pupils, staff and the wider community.

They also responded to storm damage at SC2 Waterpark making the building safe before managing the replacement of the compromised waterpark roof.

With the original supplier no longer trading, a new roof was specially designed and independently checked using site-specific wind load modelling.

The project required a bespoke scaffolding solution because nearby flood defence works prevented traditional access, while wind speeds were monitored daily to keep operatives safe.

Purpose-made curved roof sheets, some more than 24 metres long, were transported to site under abnormal load permits. Maintenance colleagues coordinated the complex project with the tenant, insurers, consultants, engineers, surveyors, loss adjusters and Council teams managing the sea defence works.

The project was managed by maintenance, liaising with our Tenant, specialist consultants, engineers, insurers, forensic surveyors and loss adjusters, as well as Council colleagues including those managing the sea defence works.

Over the last 12 months the Design and Construction team has delivered and supported a wide range of high-profile projects across the county, helping to improve housing, education provision, accessibility and regeneration.

Key achievements include the completion of 22 new energy-efficient council homes at Llwyn Eirin in Denbigh, built to Passivhaus standard and fitted with solar panels and ground-source heat pumps to help reduce household energy costs and carbon emissions.

The team also designed and progressed the first hydrotherapy pool of its kind in Denbighshire at Ysgol Tir Morfa in Rhyl, supporting pupils’ physical development and wellbeing through a specialist new facility within the school grounds.

Alongside this, the team has supported the next phase of works at the Former North Wales Hospital site in Denbigh, with remediation and demolition works helping to unlock future regeneration of the 53-acre site for housing, commercial space and green community areas.

The section’s work has also been recognised through award-winning housing schemes, including Llys Elizabeth in Rhyl, which won Best Small Social Housing Development at the LABC Awards for Wales for its high-quality, energy-efficient homes for residents aged 55 and over.

Since last summer the Energy Team has continued to lead projects that improve energy efficiency, reduce running costs and lower carbon emissions across Council buildings and services.

At Cysgod y Gaer care home in Corwen, the team installed a 40kWh battery energy storage system alongside a 21.36kWp solar array, building on previous work to add PV panels, LED lighting and heating system improvements.

This combined work has helped reduce gas and electric consumption significantly, cut carbon emissions and supports the charging of two electric vehicles operating from the site to provide health and social care services in the local community.

The team has also delivered an innovative battery storage project at the Denbigh Waste and Recycling station, installing 600kWh of battery capacity to make better use of solar energy generated on site and support electric waste and recycling vehicles.

Early results show grid energy use at the site has fallen by more than half, with the system expected to save more than 76,000kWh a year, reduce costs by around £16,000 and cut carbon emissions by approximately 22 tonnes annually.

A further example of this collaborative approach can be seen at St Brigid’s School, where teams worked together during the second half of 2025 to improve the efficiency and performance of the site’s main building.

The project brought together support from the Climate and Nature programme, Building Maintenance and the Energy Team to deliver a package of heating, controls, lighting and insulation improvements.

Works included the removal of old inefficient oil-fired boilers and their replacement with modern LPG-fired boilers across the two main plant rooms, with five boilers replaced in total and the old oil tank removed.

Modern building management controls were also installed, creating five separate zones for the main building and helping the site operate more efficiently.

In addition, more than 140 LED light fittings were installed, which are expected to save around 24,260kWh of electricity and approximately £5,579 each year.

Around 240 square metres of 300mm insulation was also added, further supporting the Council’s wider work to reduce energy use, cut emissions and improve the long-term sustainability of its buildings.

Councillor Julie Matthews, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Corporate Strategy, Policy, Equalities and Strategic Assets, said:  “The work carried out by our Property teams over the last 12 months shows the important role they play in supporting residents, communities and Council services across Denbighshire. From improving schools and care settings to delivering energy-efficient homes, reducing carbon emissions and supporting major regeneration projects, their work has a direct and lasting impact on people’s everyday lives.

“I would like to thank all the teams involved for their dedication, expertise and commitment. Their efforts help make our buildings safer, more accessible, more sustainable and better equipped to meet the needs of residents now and in the future.”

♻️ Recycling support at your local library during Green Libraries Week 📚💚

Our recycling advisors will be visiting libraries across Denbighshire during Green Libraries Week.

Drop by for handy recycling tips, helpful advice and plenty of information to help you recycle more and waste less. 🙌♻️

📍 Find them at:

• 🗓️ 21 October — St Asaph Library, 10am–1pm
• 🗓️ 22 October — Rhyl Library, 10am–1pm
• 🗓️ 23 October — Rhuddlan Library, 10am–1pm
• 🗓️ 26 October — Ruthin Library in the morning and Denbigh Library in the afternoon
• 🗓️ 27 October — Prestatyn Library, 10am–1pm
• 🗓️ 28 October — Corwen Library in the morning and Llangollen Library in the afternoon

Come along and say hello — the team is look forward to helping residents with tips, advice and guidance on recycling 👋✨
#GreenLibrariesWeek #RecycleMore #WasteLess #DenbighshireLibraries

Trial gritter run gets winter preparations underway

Council teams are preparing for the upcoming Winter Maintenance season in Denbighshire.

As part of these preparations, Council gritters will head out across the north and south of Denbighshire on 15 and 16 October for a trial run. Drivers will follow the usual gritting routes to check that everything is ready for winter, and their feedback will help shape the Council’s winter maintenance plans.

Denbighshire’s varied road network stretches from quieter rural roads and narrow tracks serving isolated properties to the highest A-class road in Wales and key regional routes such as the A55.

For more information on Council gritting routes visit https://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/parking-roads-and-travel/winter-gritting.aspx

Llyr Gruffydd MS learns about Denbighshire’s natural flood management work at Llysfasi

The Senedd Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, Llyr Gruffydd MS, visited Coleg Cambria Llysfasi on Thursday, 8 October to learn more about the innovative natural flood management work being delivered across the Clwyd catchment by Denbighshire County Council.

During the visit, the Minister heard how the Council has developed an ambitious programme of more than 15 natural flood management projects through Welsh Government funding, with six schemes already completed. The interventions are designed to slow the flow of water and retain it within the landscape for longer, helping to reduce flood risk for downstream communities while also improving water quality, creating habitats and enhancing environmental resilience.

The visit showcased the scheme at Llysfasi, which has been developed in partnership with staff at Coleg Cambria and demonstrates how sustainable land management can contribute to flood resilience while supporting productive farming. The project also provides valuable learning opportunities for students, helping to equip future farmers and land managers with the skills to balance food production, environmental enhancement and community resilience.

Cathryn Hughes, Flood Alleviation Officer at Denbighshire said, “Working closely with farmers, landowners, educational institutions and Welsh Government is essential if we are to develop practical, sustainable solutions to the increasing flood risks associated with climate change. Visits such as this provide an excellent opportunity to demonstrate how natural flood management is becoming an important part of our wider approach to reducing flood risk across Denbighshire and the Clwyd catchment, while also delivering benefits for the environment and local communities."

Councillor James Elson, Denbighshire’s Lead Member for the Environment and Transport said, “We welcome this fantastic opportunity to highlight the flood alleviation work being delivered through Welsh Government Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) funding. Natural Flood Management sites, such as the one as Llysfasi, have been a huge part of Denbighshire's flood risk management ambitions. They offer protection for communities and resilience against increased flooding whilst also helping the Council meet its aims for a Greener Denbighshire."

The natural flood risk management scheme was designed by WaterCo who supported Denbighshire staff on the visit.

Over £500 raised for Maggie's during the Chair's Civic Service

On Sunday, 20 September, Denbighshire County Council's annual Civic Service was held at St Peter’s Church, Ruthin.

Led by the Council’s then Chair, Cllr Bobby Feeley, the service featured contributions from the Reverend Luke Bristowe, the Chair’s Chaplain, Lady Sue Hudson, Mr David Jones OBE, High Sheriff of Clwyd and a performance by Dementia Friendly Ruthin Community Choir.

The congregation raised a fantastic £510.25 for Cllr Feeley’s chosen charity, Maggie’s, which provides cancer support from its North Wales centre at Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan.

Cllr Feeley (pictured below with Emma Shuttleworth from Maggie's) said: “Thank you to everyone who came along, supported Maggie’s and helped make the Civic Service so special. Your generosity and contributions are greatly appreciated.”

Since the service, Cllr Feeley has stepped down from her role as Chair following her appointment to Denbighshire County Council’s Cabinet. The Council’s Vice Chair, Cllr Peter Scott, will now succeed her as Chair.

A SKITTLES course helps young people build skills

A group of 10 young people from diverse backgrounds across Denbighshire took part in a Summer SKITTLES personal development course delivered by Denbighshire Youth Service.

The course was a fun-filled, action-packed adventure, giving the young people the opportunity to develop new skills, gain qualifications and try new experiences.

As part of the course, all 10 young people achieved qualifications in Food Hygiene, First Aid and the ‘Agored Phoenix’ course. The course was delivered in partnership with North Wales Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, St John Ambulance and Working Denbighshire.

The young people took part in a residential stay at Bryn Tysilio in Llangollen, as well as completing a community garden project at the VIBE Station in Rhyl, creating a space that the wider community will be able to enjoy and benefit from.

The course has helped each young person to build their confidence, develop their skills and gain valuable experience to support their future employment or college opportunities.

Young people aged 16 to 25 who are interested in taking part in future courses can contact James Salisbury at james.salisbury@denbighshire.gov.uk.

Corporate Plan Highlights April 2025 to March 2026: 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 2025 to March 2026: 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.

Corporate Plan Highlights April 2025 to March 2026: 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 2025 to March 2026: 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 2025 to March 2026: 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 2025 to March 2026: 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.

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.

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/  

Denbighshire residents asked to help find veterans still owed justice

Denbighshire County Council is supporting Fighting With Pride's #BattleForLostVeterans2026 campaign and encouraging local residents, veterans' groups and community organisations to help reach people affected by the historic ban on LGBTQ+ personnel serving openly in the Armed Forces before 2000.

Thousands of service personnel were dismissed, discharged or forced to hide their identity during their military careers. Eligible veterans may now be entitled to financial reparations of up to £70,000, as well as other restorative measures.

Although many veterans have already come forward, Fighting With Pride estimates that around 1,000 eligible veterans remain unaware of, or have not yet applied to, the scheme. The deadline for applications is 12 December 2026.

The council is encouraging anyone who may be eligible, or who knows someone who could be affected, to share information about the campaign and help ensure veterans receive the recognition and support they deserve.

Councillor Julie Matthews, Deputy Leader of the council, and Denbighshire’s Armed Forces Champion said, "Veterans have made significant sacrifices in service to their country and it is important that those who were treated unfairly because of their sexual orientation or gender identity are given the opportunity to access the support and recognition they deserve.

"We encourage residents, community groups and veterans' organisations across Denbighshire to help spread awareness of this campaign. By sharing this information, we can help ensure that anyone who may be eligible for reparations is aware of the support available to them before the application deadline."

Many individuals may no longer identify as LGBTQ+, may not consider themselves part of the veteran community, or may find it difficult to revisit their experiences. Community awareness is therefore vital in helping reach those who may still be owed justice.

For more information and support, visit the Fighting With Pride reparations webpage - https://www.fightingwithpride.org.uk/reparations/#

Or to apply visit www.gov.uk/lgbt-veterans

Changes to Prestatyn Traffic Trial

A new arrangement is being introduced to the Prestatyn traffic trial as part of the council's ongoing efforts to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in the town centre.

From Saturday 15 August, motorists will be able to make a right turn from the B5120 Ffordd Pendyffryn, Prestatyn (travelling from the bus station/Lidl direction) down Bridge Road towards the mini roundabout, for businesses at the bottom of the High Street and Parc Prestatyn Retail Park.

The additional right turn movement is intended to reduce the number of vehicles travelling through Parc Prestatyn Retail Park to access businesses located at the lower end of the High Street. By providing motorists with a more direct route, the council hopes to ease pressure on local roads and improve access for residents, visitors and businesses.

Previous traffic modelling for the area advised that a right turn at this location would not be possible due to the width of the road and associated highway constraints. However, following further detailed work and a review of the available road space, a solution has been identified that safely accommodates the right turn movement.

Motorists are encouraged to take extra care when travelling through the area as road users become familiar with the new arrangement. Appropriate signage will be in place to guide drivers.

The council will monitor traffic movements and congestion levels during the trial period to assess the effectiveness of the changes and determine any future improvements that may be required.

Fancy becoming a Tourism Ambassador?

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!

Rhyl Beach clean

A Beach clean has been organised at Rhyl Beach, from the Pavillion Theatre car park, LL18 3AQ on August 26, from 3pm until 4pm.

Volunteers are welcome to join the event which has been organised by Denbighshire County Councils Flood Risk team, with equipment supplied by Keep Wales Tidy.

The partnership is working 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.

Taking 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. The litter pick which has become a monthly event also helps to improve the environment for local residents and visitors.

For further information on joining the event contact claudia.smith@denbighshire.gov.uk/ 07785517398 for more details.

Cows return to Moel Famau

That’s right, the best habitat conservation workers in the business are back on the Clwydian Range’s busiest peak.

These bovine beauties may not have a degree in Environmental Science but what they lack in education they more than make up for in vibrant enthusiasm for conserving our moorland habitat.

They are part of the partnership working of Natural Resources Wales and the National Landscape, using traditional methods to manage the landscape we care for.  

To read more about the project, click the link below:

https://www.clwydianrangeanddeevalleyaonb.org.uk/cows-return-to-moel-famau/ 

How do you remember Queen Elizabeth?

People across the UK, the Commonwealth and beyond are invited to map their memories of Britain's longest reigning monarch.

Share your memories of her and become part of a living history archive at www.queenelizabeth.com.

All photo credits: PA Images

Having problems with your internet? We may be able to help!

Do you recognise any of these?

🔹 Your internet is slow or unreliable

🔹 You’re wondering when you might get Full Fibre

🔹 You’re not sure what other options are available, such as 4G, 5G or satellite broadband

🔹 You’re wondering if you could benefit from a government broadband or connectivity scheme

🔹 You’re concerned about changes to the traditional copper phone network

🔹 You’re worried about how your landline will work during a power cut

Did you know that Denbighshire has a Digital Officer who can help? 💻

Our Digital Officer, Philip Burrows, can offer advice and guidance, help you understand your connectivity options, let you know about schemes you may be eligible for and keep you up to date with funding and support that may be available in your area.

If you have a question or concern about your internet or digital connectivity, get in touch with philip.burrows@denbighshire.gov.uk

We’re here to help you stay connected! 🌐

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.

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.

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

Denbighshire Youth Service

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

Council Tax only accounts for 25% of total Council funding

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

Working Denbighshire offers free, weekly wellbeing sessions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Did you know 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

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 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?

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.

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

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

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

The Authority also respond to over 500 planning compliance cases.

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

Did you know that you only have to apply once to be included on the housing register?

SARTH stands for ‘Single Access Route to Housing’. This is where, if you want to be included on the Housing Register, you will only have to make one application. Instead of applying to different housing associations separately, you complete one application that is shared across all those landlords who are part of the scheme. The SARTH is shared by all social housing providers in Denbighshire. Once you have made an application to go on the Housing Register, your housing need is then assessed and you’re placed in a priority band, helping ensure homes are allocated in a fair and transparent way to those who need them most.

All the information you need to know about the scheme, and how to apply, is 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 the Council’s Licensing Team have launched their new service standards.

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

Did you know that 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

School Waste and Recycling team visits

Learning about recycling starts early! 🧃📦 Denbighshire County Council’s Waste and Recycling team are carrying out school visits to help children understand what can be recycled, where it goes, and how everyone can play their part. ♻️ Watch our video to find out more. 🎥

What do I do with brown paper?

Brown paper (often used in delivery packaging, take-away bags or as packing around items in boxes) contains fibres like cardboard that can’t be recycled with other paper. Watch below. 

Gas Canisters

Planning a BBQ this summer? When the gas runs out, make sure the canister goes to the right place. Gas bottles and canisters should never go in your household recycling or general waste bin. Watch our short video for simple advice on how to dispose of them safely.

Registering Visitor Accommodation in Wales

Anyone taking bookings for overnight stays in Wales — from casual hosts to large hotel operators — will be required to register their accommodation with the Welsh Revenue Authority (WRA) when the register launches this autumn.

The forthcoming Welsh Government legislation means that all providers offering visitor accommodation, whether a single spare room, a holiday cottage, a B&B, or a full‑service hotel, will need to complete a formal registration process. The requirement applies regardless of whether guests stay for one night or several weeks.

For further information and to sign up for notifications about the new registration scheme, click on this link.

Marine Litter group

Denbighshire County Council’s Flood Risk Team and volunteers have together collected over 30 bags of litter from beach areas along the Prestatyn coastline.

A number of litter picks have taken place this year 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.

Taking 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

Watch this clip for more.

Swifts

Did you know that our Biodiversity team is also working to support swifts who migrate to Denbighshire during the summer? These birds are on the UK’s Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern. Find out what we are doing in the county and how you can help by watching this clip.

Drop-in sessions to help with your water bills

The Council is working in partnership with Welsh Water to help make your water bills more affordable. Welsh Water has a range of support schemes and tariffs, with some customers saving up to £300 a year. Support is also available for customers who are struggling with arrears, as well as practical assistance through the Priority Services Register for those who may need extra help due to age, illness, disability, or other circumstances.

Come along to one of the drop-in sessions to find out what support may be available to you and receive help with applications.

These sessions are free and you don't need to make an appointment.

• 29 September: Rhyl Library & One Stop Shop, Church Street, Rhyl LL18 3AA (2pm - 4pm)    
• 14 October: The VIBE Station, 40 Bodfor Street, Rhyl LL18 1AT (1pm - 4pm)
• 16 October: Prestatyn Library, 21 King's Avenue, Prestatyn LL19 9AA (10am - 1pm)
• 21 October: HWB Dinbych, Smithfield Rroadd, Denbigh LL16 3RG (1pm - 2.30pm)
• 26 October: Prestatyn Library, 21 King's Avenue, Prestatyn LL19 9AA (10am - 1pm)
• 28 October: The VIBE Station, 40 Bodfor Street, Rhyl LL18 1AT (10am - 2pm)
• 30 October: Rhyl Library & One Stop Shop, Church Street, Rhyl LL18 3AA (11am - 2pm)
• 30 October: Town Council Chambers Room, 7 Nant Hall Road, Prestatyn LL19 9LR (3pm - 4.30pm)
• 3 November: Town Council Chambers Room, 7 Nant Hall Road, Prestatyn LL19 9LR (9am - 11.30am)
• 3 November: Rhyl Library & One Stop Shop, Church Street, Rhyl LL18 3AA (1pm - 4pm)
• 9 November: HWB Dinbych, Smithfield Road, Denbigh LL16 3RG (9.30am - 11am)
• 11 November: The VIBE Station, 40 Bodfor Street, Rhyl LL18 1AT (11am - 2pm)
• 12 November: The ASK Centre, 9 Water Street, Rhyl LL18 1SP (10.30am - 1.30pm)
• 20 November: Denbigh Library, Hall Square, Denbigh LL16 3NU (12pm - 4pm)
• 23 November: HWB Dinbych, Smithfield Road, Denbigh LL16 3RG (10.30am - 12pm)
• 9 December: The VIBE Station, 40 Bodfor Street, Rhyl, LL18 1AT (11am - 2pm)

Welsh Water have focus areas where they’re able to do extra outreach work. North Denbighshire is a focus area for them at the moment, however they are looking at holding sessions in Rhuddlan, St Asaph and the south of the County in the New Year.

North Wales Businesses Invited to Skills Event

Businesses from across North Wales are being encouraged to attend North Wales Skills: A New Plan, Practical Solutions, a regional event designed to help employers tackle workforce challenges and access practical support.

Taking place at Venue Cymru, Llandudno, on Thursday 12 November 2026 (9am to 1.30pm), the event will bring together employers, training providers and support organisations to launch the new North Wales Skills and Employment Plan.

The event will provide businesses with advice and guidance on recruitment, staff retention, skills development and workforce planning, while showcasing the range of support, funding and training opportunities available across the region.

Figures from the North Wales Skills and Employment Plan highlight the scale of the challenge facing employers, with 53% of businesses identifying recruitment as their main challenge and 56% reporting skills shortages within their workforce.

Attendees will have the opportunity to connect directly with organisations that can support their business, learn about current skills and training provision, and gain practical solutions to workforce development challenges.

The event is being organised by the North Wales Regional Skills Partnership, which works with employers, education providers and public sector partners to ensure skills provision meets the needs of the regional economy.

Event details

• North Wales Skills: A New Plan, Practical Solutions
• Venue Cymru, Llandudno
• Thursday 12 November 2026
• 9am to 1.30pm

Businesses can register for a free place via Eventbrite.

For more information about skills and employment support in North Wales, visit the North Wales Regional Skills Partnership website.

Walking, talking and improving wellbeing, one step at a time with Working Denbighshire

Young people in Denbighshire are being encouraged to join Working Denbighshire's weekly wellbeing walks, which have been helping participants connect with others, get outdoors and improve their wellbeing for over a year.

Delivered by the Barod team at Working Denbighshire in partnership with Ramblers Cymru, the walks provide a friendly and informal space for 18 to 25-year-olds to enjoy the benefits of nature, build confidence and meet new people while exploring some of North Wales’s most beautiful walking routes.

The sessions are fully supported by Barod and Ramblers Cymru staff, with routes chosen by the group. Participants have explored a variety of local and regional trails while developing practical outdoor skills such as navigation and route planning.

The walks continue to play an important role in reducing loneliness and social isolation, providing a welcoming environment where young people can socialise, share experiences and spend time outdoors together.

Open to Denbighshire residents aged 18 to 25, the walks welcome people of all fitness levels and abilities. There is no pressure to discuss employment or future plans, but the supportive setting can help participants build confidence, develop new skills and feel more prepared to take their next steps when they are ready.

Paul Dunham, a regular attendee of the Walk and Talk sessions, said:

"Getting outdoors and meeting new people has really helped build my confidence. I'd never been to Moel Famau before, so visiting somewhere new and setting ourselves the challenge of reaching the summit was exciting. It gave me a real sense of achievement and team spirit.

"I enjoyed talking to different people along the way, which helped me feel part of the group. The experience has inspired me to do more walking and continue building my confidence and resilience.

"I'm happy to keep taking part in activities with Barod and Working Denbighshire because they bring people together who are all on their own journey and help create a real sense of belonging."

Councillor Hugh Evans, Leader and Lead Member for Economic Growth, Corporate Governance and Tackling Deprivation, added:

"Getting outdoors and being active can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health, and it is encouraging to see this partnership continuing to support young people across Denbighshire in such a practical and inclusive way. I would encourage anyone who may benefit from taking part to come along and give it a try."

Olivia Evans from Ramblers Cymru said:

"Our partnership with Working Denbighshire's Barod programme has been a fantastic opportunity for the people of Denbighshire. Over the last year, we've achieved a great deal, from our weekly walks that have helped people connect, to days in the hills, navigation courses and more.

"As we continue, we'll be developing opportunities such as a mentorship scheme to help participants gain the skills and confidence to begin leading walks themselves with our support. I look forward to continuing our work together and getting our waterproofs back out as we head into the season ahead!"

The wellbeing walks take place every Thursday at 3pm, meeting at Rhyl Library, with transport and kit support available where needed. As the days get shorter over the autumn and winter months, start times may be adjusted slightly. Participants are encouraged to follow Working Denbighshire's social media channels for the latest updates and walk information.

There is no need to book, and participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather. Friends are also welcome to come along.

For more information, residents can call 01745 331438 or visit the Working Denbighshire website.

Working Denbighshire is part‑funded by the UK Government and multiple programmes, including the Welsh Government’s Communities for Work Plus, the UK–Wales Trailblazer initiative targeting economic inactivity, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF), and Connect to Work.

Improved boundary wall at Ysgol Pentrecelyn

A school in South Denbighshire has seen a brand-new boundary wall installed, bringing an upgraded look to the front of the school.

Following a survey, which deemed parts of the original structure unsafe, the original wall at Ysgol Pentrecelyn was taken down, whilst construction of the new, upgraded wall took place.

The new wall was built using limestone and saw approximately 50 tonnes of stone used.

The full rebuilding work was scheduled to minimise disruption to the school, and a full road closure was required while the work was carried out. 

During the work, another section of wall was taken down, with the area tarmacked to enlarge the car parking area.

Andrew Evans, Headteacher at Ysgol Pentrecelyn said:

“We are delighted to see the completion of this impressive new boundary wall, which has significantly enhanced the appearance of the school and strengthened the welcome we extend to pupils, families and visitors. The project has ensured that the site remains safe whilst also preserving the character of our school and its rural setting through the use of traditional limestone.

I would like to thank Denbighshire County Council and all those involved in delivering the project, particularly for scheduling the main construction work during the summer holidays to minimise disruption to our pupils and community. The improvements, including the additional parking provision, will be of great benefit to the school for many years to come. The new boundary wall has transformed the entrance to Ysgol Pentrecelyn and is a real asset to our school."

Councillor Huw Hilditch-Roberts, Deputy Leader and Lead Member for Education and Children, Welsh Language, Culture and Heritage said:

“It is fantastic to see this important improvement completed at Ysgol Pentrecelyn. This new project has made the site safer, enhanced the entrance to the school and preserved the character of its rural setting.

I would like to thank everyone involved in delivering a high-quality project that will benefit the school for many years to come.”

A recipe for teamwork at Ysgol Dinas Brân!

Recently, GCSE Food and Nutrition students at Ysgol Dinas Brân took on an exciting culinary challenge with the Royal Logistic Corps Chef Team!

The interactive session put their skills to the test as they worked together under pressure, with no fresh ingredients to hand. The challenge was all about more than just cooking – students had to communicate, show leadership, solve problems and think creatively, all while adapting to changing scenarios in a fun and competitive environment.

Both classes rose to the challenge brilliantly, showing fantastic teamwork, resilience and creativity as they produced their dishes against the clock.

Miss King, Head of Food and Nutrition at the school, said: “I was really impressed with the pupils’ teamwork and professionalism, and the quality of the dishes they managed to create under time pressure with no fresh ingredients. It was a great day!”

The experience was a fantastic opportunity for our students to put their skills into practice, build confidence and develop valuable life skills that will support them in their future studies – all while having great fun along the way!

Ysgol Gymraeg Henllan pupils share an important message about school attendance

Pupils at Ysgol Gymraeg Henllan have been getting their newsreader hats on to help spread an important message about the value of coming to school every day.

Before the summer holidays, Miss Glover worked with the school’s Year 6 pupils to create a news-style video reminding pupils and families about the importance of attending school regularly, arriving on time and, wherever possible, avoiding taking holidays during term time.

The pupils did a fantastic job and the school is incredibly proud of the finished video – and the important message they have shared.

At Ysgol Gymraeg Henllan, good attendance is a key priority. Being in school regularly gives children the opportunity to learn, develop friendships, build confidence and take part in the many activities and experiences on offer throughout the school year.

Improving attendance is also a priority for Welsh Government and Denbighshire County Council, with schools and partners working together to support children and families and help ensure every child has the best possible opportunities to succeed.

The school recognises that family holidays are an important opportunity to spend time together and make memories. However, taking holidays during school term can mean children miss valuable learning and can disrupt their routines.

Every day in school matters, and the school is encouraging families to make the most of the school holiday periods wherever possible, rather than requesting leave during term time.

A big thank you goes to all the pupils, staff and parents who helped make the video – we think they’ve done an AMAZING job!

Lynne Jones, Headteacher at Ysgol Gymraeg Henllan, said:

“Regular attendance really does make a difference. We are extremely proud of our Year 6 pupils for the effort they have put into creating this video and for sharing such an important message with our school community.

“We hope everyone enjoys enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed making it!”

You can watch their video here - it will link to their Facebook page.