Essential roadworks to begin on the A525 at Llandegla

Denbighshire County Council will carry out essential resurfacing work on the A525 at Llandegla this month.

Work will start on October 8 and is expected to take just over three weeks. It will take place at the Crown Inn crossroads at the A525.

A convoy system will manage traffic during the day so the work can be carried out safely and disruption can be kept to a minimum to local residents and drivers. Residents and road users should allow extra time for their journeys because delays maybe likely.

Some of this work will also take place overnight to also help maintain safety and reduce disruption in the area for residents. During overnight work the side roads off the A525 will be temporarily closed on October 20 and October 21. Diversion signs will be in place when needed.

Councillor James Elson, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “These essential works will improve this route for motorists who use it. The Council would like to thank residents living near this location for their support and drivers using this route for their 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.”

Denbighshire County Council apologises for any inconvenience and thanks the local community for its understanding.

Residents invited to Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape community forum

Residents are invited to have their say at the next Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape Community Forum in Brymbo.

Taking place on the 1 October, the community forum will offer the opportunity to hear about the work taking place across the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape.

Attendees at the forum will receive updates on the National Landscapes team’s efforts to support the recovery of curlew populations and find out more about the work being carried out to help prevent moorland fires and protect the landscape, wildlife and important habitats.

As well as hearing about current projects, the forum is designed to be a two-way conversation. Residents, Town and Community Councils as well as local groups can share their own projects and ideas, discuss local issues and find out more about practical support, community planning tools and potential funding opportunities available to them.

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

“Forums such as these offer a great opportunity for the local community to understand the important work that is taking place across the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscapes.

“They also provide a safe space for the community to meet the team and discuss their ideas, ask questions and raise any issues they might have. I would like to encourage anyone who has an interest in the National Landscape to attend the next community forum in Brymbo”.

The forum will take place on Thursday 1 October between 7pm-8:30pm in the Charles Darby Room, Stori Brymbo, New High Street, Brymbo, Wrexham, LL15 5AX.

To book your place click here. Alternatively, you can email loggerheads.countrypark@denbighshire.gov.uk or call 01824 712757.

Council launches greener staff travel support

Denbighshire County Council has launched a greener scheme to support lowering staff business travel costs.

The Council’s Fleet Service is overseeing a new pool vehicle system to help drive down carbon emissions and also costs for business travel around the county.

Denbighshire County Council declared a climate and nature emergency in 2019 and has since been adopting zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) into its fleet. More than 20 percent of its fleet vehicles are made up of ZEVs.

The Council’s Fleet Service has been transitioning end of live fossil fuel powered vehicles over to electric where appropriate with significant support from Welsh and UK Government departments. This helps cut down on emissions produced, reduces long-term costs for miles and maintenance across all services and lowers the reliance on petrol- and diesel-powered engines.

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.

Now staff who have received the training can take part in a bookable EV pool vehicle  system which is operating across the county following a successful smaller pilot scheme run by Fleet.

Supported by Toyota Proace EV and Citroen Ec3 vans, staff can now book out online and pick one of these vehicles up at locations in Denbigh, St Asaph, Prestatyn, and Llangollen for their working travel needs.

Using this system, which is supported by RFID readers on the vehicle dashboards, helps reduce the reliance on traditional fossil fuelled vehicles by staff for their travel miles in support of council business.

Martin Griffiths, Fleet Mobility Lead Officer, Denbighshire County Council, explained: “As part of our Council Climate Change and Nature Recovery strategy we are committed to continue to reduce carbon emissions across the local authority, which includes our Fleet.

“We are aware as a council that some staff use their own vehicles for business travel and these are more likely to be fossil fuel driven vehicles. This new scheme really provides the best of both worlds, staff as long as they complete the EV training can book one of these vehicles out to save the wear and tear on their car and mileage costs. We as a council are also helping put more greener miles on the road which helps towards the goal of lowering the county’s carbon footprint.

Martin added: “We are also continually sharing our good practice and experiences with other Welsh Council’s and Public Sector Bodies to help them with their own transition to zero emission. Carrying out the inhouse EV training and running this new pool car system is enabling us to learn from the experiences of our own staff using the EVs which is a massive bonus for how we continue to shape our fleet support to tackle carbon emissions in the future.”

Cllr James Elson, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “Introducing a pool vehicle system is an important step in ensuring the Council makes the most effective use of its resources. By providing staff with access to vehicles for business travel, we can reduce reliance on private vehicles, help manage business mileage costs and ensure taxpayers receive better value for money. The scheme also supports the Council’s wider commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations.”

Residents invited to have their say on County’s recycling ambitions

Residents are being invited to have their say on the development of a new five-year plan for recycling and waste in Denbighshire.

Denbighshire County Council is developing a document that will guide how it approaches recycling and waste management in the county over the next five years.

Upcoming changes to national guidelines for recycling mean it is vital that the council plans ahead and makes sure that the recycling services offered are reliable, future-proof and offer good value for money to taxpaying residents.

The Council has to set key priorities around the following areas:

• Waste prevention and reduction: the Council needs to make sure it is helping residents to make choices which prevent waste from being created in the first place
• Re-use and repair: the Council needs to consider ways in which it can help residents to make the best use of items they already own
• Recycling: the Council needs to achieve a 70% recycling target as soon as possible

To help inform the development of the plan, the Council has launched a consultation with two key focuses:

• Residents will be asked to look at a draft action plan for each of the priority areas and state whether they agree or disagree with the proposals
• The Council will ask residents some questions around their personal recycling habits to try and understand what motivates people to recycle, and what might stop people from recycling

The consultation is open to all Denbighshire residents until Sunday 18^th October 2026

Cllr James Elson, lead member for Environment and Transport said

“Recycling and waste is one of the most visible services that the Council provides impacting on every household in the county. We have made major changes to our recycling and waste collections in the last few years to stay ahead of the legislation, and we’re continuing to do more. We have just launched a trial of soft plastic collections from around 4,500 homes in Denbighshire. Once this trial concludes, we will consider options regarding future collections before rolling this out county-wide.

“The recycling and waste service the council provides needs to be forward-thinking and ready for future changes. Asking residents to help us shape our five-year plan is vitally important and I would encourage everyone who is interested to make sure they take part.”

To take part in the consultation, residents can visit www.denbighshire.gov.uk/consultations or they can visit any Denbighshire County Council Library and One Stop Shop to request a paper version of the consultation pack.

Essential resurfacing works to take place on Tynewydd Road, Rhyl

Denbighshire County Council is to carry out essential resurfacing works on Tynewydd Road, Rhyl, from Monday 5 October 2026.

The works are expected to take around two weeks to complete and will take place between the junction of Coast Road and the junction of Bridgegate Road.

To help ensure the work can be carried out safely and with as little disruption as possible during the day, the road will be closed to vehicular traffic between 6pm and 1am for the duration of the works.

Access will be maintained, although residents and road users should allow extra time for their journeys as some delays and disruption may be experienced. A signed diversion route will be in place.

Councillor James Elson, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “We know that roadworks can be inconvenient for local residents and those travelling through the area, but this work is important to help improve the condition of the carriageway.

“We thank residents, businesses and road users for their patience and cooperation while these essential works are carried out. Every effort will be made to complete the work as quickly and efficiently as possible and minimise disruption.”

Denbighshire County Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks the local community for their understanding.

Denbighshire County Council response to the sentencing in the child sexual exploitation trial

Denbighshire County Council’s thoughts and sympathies are with the young women at the centre of this trial and we’d like to recognise the courage and bravery they have shown in speaking out to secure justice in exceptionally difficult circumstances.

Now that those responsible for the abuse suffered by the young people have been brought to justice, the North Wales Safeguarding Board (NWSB) will continue with the Single Unified Safeguarding Review (SUSR), which will be carried out in accordance with national guidance. The SUSR is not part of the criminal process - it aims to examine agencies’ involvement with the young people and to identify what lessons can be learnt for the future. Denbighshire County Council will cooperate fully, and work closely with the Board, North Wales Police and other partners as part of this process.

Today’s sentences bring to a conclusion a very difficult and emotional chapter for our community. We understand that this case has been challenging and has brought up strong feelings. We ask that everyone respects the legal process and each other as we process this outcome.

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.

Council urges residents to help keep community areas litter-free

Denbighshire County Council is urging residents and visitors to dispose of their waste responsibly, as part of ongoing work to combat littering across communities.

Littering is an environmental offence and anyone caught dropping litter may be issued with a Fixed Penalty Notice where sufficient evidence is obtained.

The Council’s Environmental Crime Team has already issued a number of Fixed Penalty Notices across the county, to support wider efforts to prevent environmental crime and improve the cleanliness and appearance Denbighshire communities

Littering can have a significant impact on local communities, the environment and wildlife. It can spoil the appearance of streets and public spaces, create additional cleansing costs and encourage further waste and anti-social behaviour.

Carelessly discarded litter can also pose a serious risk to wildlife, with animals becoming injured or ingesting items that have been left behind.

Jonathan Brittain-Hughes, Environmental Crime Manager at Denbighshire County Council, said:

“We are urging people to play their part in keeping Denbighshire clean and welcoming. Most people do the right thing, and we are grateful to residents and visitors who take their litter home or use the bins provided.”

Councillor James Elson, Lead Member for the Environment and Transport, said: “We are working hard to reduce environmental crime across Denbighshire and will continue to take action against those who choose to leave litter in our communities as it has a real impact on our streets, open spaces, wildlife and local communities. Where people choose to drop litter and evidence is available, enforcement action can be taken, including issuing Fixed Penalty Notices.”

The Council’s approach focuses on education, prevention and behaviour change, alongside proportionate enforcement where needed. Officers are working with residents, businesses, schools and community groups to encourage people to take responsibility for their waste and help keep Denbighshire clean.

Members of the public are encouraged also to report environmental issues and provide information that may assist investigations.

Denbighshire County Council will continue to monitor areas across the county and take proportionate enforcement action where environmental offences are identified and evidence allows.

Historic ‘tea tree’ set for comeback through Denbighshire growing project

A scarce tree famed for its prowess in providing a tea substitute during the second world war is being given a new lease of life.

Staff at Denbighshire County Council’s Tree Nursery at Green Gates Nature Reserve have taken on a project to boost the number of small-leaved lime trees in the county.

The Council’s tree nursery is funded by the Welsh Government, through the Local Nature Partnerships Cymru project and Local Places for Nature grant.

Nursery staff and volunteers are working to boost species numbers of trees including black poplar, wild service tree and oaks by sourcing seeds from the local area and growing them on.

Small-leaf lime trees used to be dominant in woodlands but due to habitat loss and changes they have become less over time. Finding one of the trees is usually an indicator of a once ancient woodland area.

Following seed harvesting locally, nursery staff have secured 110 grams of species seeds which will provide the chance of growing nearly 800 trees on site.

Small-leaf lime trees came into their own during the Second World War due to heavy rationing of standard black tea. The dried flowers and leaves off the tree were used to create a tea substitute.

Flowers off the tree were also valued for the medicinal properties and used in the past for treating headaches and insomnia.

The tree is also a great source for biodiversity as leaves are eaten by the caterpillars of many moth species, are very attractive to aphids, providing a source of food for their predators, including hoverflies, ladybirds and many species of bird. Its flowers also provide nectar and pollen for insects, particularly bees, which also drink aphid honeydew from lime leaves.

The flowers were valued for their medicinal properties and they were considered an effective treatment for insomnia, headaches and other ‘nervous’ disorders.

Councillor James Elson, Lead Member for the Environment and Transport, said: “Our nursery staff and volunteers are looking forward to growing these small-leaved lime trees from locally collected seed and giving them the best possible chance to establish. By nurturing them at the nursery before planting, the team will help improve their survival rates while supporting a native tree species that offers real value for biodiversity, from bees and other pollinators to moths, birds and many other species.”