15th June 2026

by Sandy Andrews | Jun 25, 2026 | ** COUNCIL, MINUTES ARCHIVE

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 15^th June 2026

Present: Cllr Ian Hewins – Chair

Councillors: Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dewi Owen

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

1 member of public was present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/29/15.06.26

Apologies received and accepted from Cllr H. Williams

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/30/15.06.26

The Chair welcomed everyone and said how good it was to see so many village organisations represented at the Community village meeting last week. It was also good to see Beca Brown, newly elected MS for Gwynedd Maldwyn, in attendance and proposed that the Clerk write to her and express thanks for her presence. This was agreed. However, it was disappointing to see so few residents there, especially younger residents and it was agreed that the Council needs to think about how to engage younger people. It was suggested that earlier or later in the year might be a better time to hold the meeting, as many people are not so busy at those times and perhaps also have a hot topic for which we would like feedback from the community. It was noted that the residents who did come talked to all the stall-holders and gave their views on various topics. 

The Chair informed the Council that there was live music on the wharf last weekend and while he didn’t hear it live, relatives who live in the Midlands contacted him and told him it was happening, as they had seen it on Facebook! He noted that this shows the power of Facebook and social media.

Action: Clerk to write to Beca Brown

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Declaration of financial, personal or prejudicial interest

CL/31/15.06.26

None received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Council on 18^thMay 2026

CL/32/15.06.26

The minutes were approved unanimously as seen.

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Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and approve the treasurer’s report

CL/33/15.06.26

The treasurer’s report for June was received and approved. 

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To approve payments not previously approved

CL/34/15.06.26

A W Evans for vegetation control – £1,195.00

S M J Lister for accounting services – £1,974.00

Payments were unanimously approved.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr D. Williams

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To approve the Annual Return

CL/35/15.06.26

The Annual Return was approved unanimously

Proposed: Cllr Owen  Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/36/15.06.26

Cllr Owen reported that no Gwynedd Council meetings have taken place recently.

He attended the Network Rail liaison meeting and was told that the new trains should be running on the Cambrian Line in September but that there had been a lot of disruption recently due to signal failures and a car accident at the Co-op in Tywyn. He travelled to Criccieth recently on the train and noted it was very busy, which was good to see, as the asked for numbers of people using the line have not been forthcoming. He reported that the platform at 6 stations will be raised to facilitate easier access to the trains. 

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive and approve a report from the Clerk

CL/37/15.06.26

The Clerk reported on the following:

* Tywyn & District Memorial Appeal Fund

The clerk established that Anne Lloyd-Jones is Chair of this group and there have been no meetings recently as there has been no request for funds. She informed the clerk that there will be the AGM in the autumn and the clerk gave her Cllr Kelly’s contact details.

* Meirionnydd Access Group

The clerk has been unable to find out any information as yet.

* Dates of meetings

The clerk requested to move September’s meeting to 14^th September from 21^st but this is not possible as many councillor are unable to make that date. A councillor will therefore have to take the minutes of the meeting. 

* Councillor vacancy

Gwynedd Council have informed the clerk that no election has been called, so the

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Community Council can proceed to co-opt a new councillor. The clerk suggested a closing date of 13^th July, which would give 4 weeks for people to apply, then co-opt at the Council meeting on 20^th July. This was agreed by the council.

* Grants

Parc Eryri requested more information and informed the clerk that the Council will hear the outcome of the application by the end of the month. Gwynedd Council are currently holding back their offer until the Community Council confirms if we have match-funding from Parc Eryri. If the grant from Parc Eryri is not forthcoming, the clerk will inform Gwynedd that the Council will match-fund the grant from Gwynedd.

* Kite festival

Tywyn cadets have informed the clerk they are unable able to help, so she has asked Machynlleth Scouts but had no reply.

It was agreed to meet at 6pm on Tuesday 23^rd to clear the boardwalk and people will need to bring spades, buckets and wheelbarrows.

The clerk confirmed that help will also be needed on the weekend. On both Saturday and Sunday, people need to meet at 8am at the Neuadd Dyfi when the kites and arena equipment will be transported to the beach and the arena set up. At 4pm help will be needed to take down the arena and transport everything back to the Neuadd Dyfi. Cllr Owen confirmed he will bring his quad-bike and trailer to help with this.

The clerk will arrange for tea & coffee to be available in the Neuadd all weekend. Some kite flyers will stay overnight in the Neuadd car park like last year and will be given permits. 

Action: Councillors and Clerk to meet at 6pm Tuesday 23^rd to clear boardwalk

Action: Councillors and Clerk to meet at 8am at the Neuadd Dyfi on Saturday 27^th & Sunday 28^th to help set up and then again at 4pm to help clear away. 

Action: Clerk to arrange refreshments

Action: Cllr Owen to bring his quadbike & trailer 

* Police meeting 1^st June 3pm in Tywyn police station

The clerk reported that the meeting with the police went well and they reported that the biggest issue they have in Aberdyfi is neighbour disputes. Their priority for the summer will be targeting the drug dealers in the area. They have several vacancies for police officers and PCSO’s but no-one from this area has applied. They reiterated that there is no upper age limit for the PCSO role and recently recruited someone who is 60. There may also be potential to work part-time and they requested that we help them advertise the vacancies. They informed the meeting that on the North Wales website it is possible to see crime data for each area and the police priorities for that area – just search for Aberdyfi under ‘What’s happening in your area?’.

It was noted that we are still waiting for the outcome of the speed review before we can move ahead with changing the speed limit past the gold club and obtaining an official camera zone between the 20mph limit at Gwelfor Road to the traffic lights. 

* BCUHB balance room meeting

The clerk attended this meeting and reported that the pre-consultation phase is now over and the public consultation phase will commence in September, with a final decision being made early next year. BCUHB plan to visit as many different community groups as possible during the public consultation phase.

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* Penrhos garage

Have not requested further permits

* Woodland above Penhelig

Clerk had a phone call from Tony Davis, who explained that it was his parent’s wish that the woodland be gifted to the people of Aberdyfi / Community Council. He suggested Council representatives meet with their solicitor to look at the legalities in more detail. He confirmed that the Trust owns the base of the road as well as the woodland, with the houses having access across the road. The two stipulations that would be required if the Council took on the land is for the Council to cover the legal costs and conveyancing of the Trust and to display a plaque with Tony’s parents’ names. 

It was agreed for the green working group to continue to look at this as well as the Gwynedd Council suggestions for other areas of the village.

Cllr Hewins informed the council that he is meeting with residents of one of the adjoining houses to the woodland next week.

Action: Clerk to obtain quotes for survey of woodland

Action: Green working group to meet with Mr. Davis and his solicitor.

Action: Cllr Hewins to meet with residents 

* Rubbish problems

The clerk reported recent problems with fly-tipping in main car park and Pont-y-Brics to Gwynedd Council and asked for a bin to be put at Pont-y-Brics for rubbish. They have responded saying they have been out to assess the situation and arrangements are in place to solve the problem at Pont-y-Brics. The clerk also reported that the van normally used to collect the rubbish broke down so Gwynedd Council only had a small van available, which didn’t have compacting capabilities, so once it was full, they had to drive to Harlech to empty it. The Council now have a new van so the situation has been resolved.

* Green infrastructure

Planting group would like to add some trees and pots for around the roundabout at Penhelig to the application – approx. £300 in total.

Action: Clerk to add this into the application with Gwynedd Council

* Cycle path

The clerk emailed Gwynedd Council asking if the reported £200K from the Senedd was for the cycle path and has received a reply confirming they have received funding to develop the project over the next few years. This will initially involve translocating the hedgerows and undertaking site clearance beginning October 2026 (assuming a Hedgerow Removal Licence is granted from Parc Eryri which will hopefully be in place by August 2026). It is anticipated that the main works will commence around September 2027 with the construction phase taking approximately 13 months.

Action: Clerk to include in Rushlight

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/38/15.06.26

NP5/50/12N Trefeddian Hotel, Aberdyfi LL35 0SB

Change of use from dwellinghouse (Use Class C3) to short-term lets (Use Class C6)

No objections raised

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NP5/50/LU739B The Beech Trees, Plas Panteidal, Aberdyfi LL35 0RF

Certificate of Lawfulness of Proposed Use or Development for the stationing of a caravan

* Concerns raised over the size of the replacement caravan, accessibility to the site, parking and services such as water at the site. 

Action: Clerk to respond to application

NP5/50/584A The Coach House, Aberdyfi LL35 0NR

Erection of a free-standing raised terrace

No objections raised

Licence Application Luxcart Ltd, 4-5 Seaview Terrace, Aberdyfi LL35 0EE

Application for a premises licence 

* Concerns raised about the licence hours being until 00:00

Action: Clerk top respond to application 

NP5/50/95D 4-5 Seaview Terrace, Aberdyfi LL35 0EE

Alterations to shopfront and the installation of air conditioning units

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To receive a report from the working group on the green infrastructure proposals from gwynedd Council.

CL/39/15.06.26

Cllr O’Neill reported on the different sections of the proposal report as follows:

Neuadd Dyfi car park: Recommendations to plant a hedge along the fence and a tree by the P&D machine were accepted, though it was noted that two of the proposed trees are on Neuadd Dyfi land so the clerk will speak to Des George to see if he agrees with the proposals. 

Playing field: Recommendations to plant a hedge along the fence and specimen trees were accepted but the large wildflower strips were felt to be excessive, especially as this is a sports field so any flowers would quickly be trampled underfoot. However, it was noted that the existing wildflower banks are important and need to be kept. It was also noted that seating would be a good addition and it was suggested that the large tree-trunk already in the field could be cut to form a more useable bench, as well as purchasing more benches.

Main car park: It was felt that there are perhaps too many trees in the proposal as it would be nice to keep some of the plants already in place and it was suggested to examine the trees in more detail to see what has survived and what has not. It was also suggested that another community clean-up session would be useful. 

Football Field: Trees and hedge on the road side of the field need to be surveyed as soon as possible and the recommendations for re-planting here were accepted. Planting of hedges on the other sides of the field were also accepted, including specimen trees along the eastern and western boundary.

Different ideas for developing the strip of land between the actual football field and the railway cottages were suggested, including a pump track, wildflower meadow, orchard and specimen trees. No decision was reached regarding this area and it was agreed to research the options further before making a final decision.

The clerk informed the council that the grant application would need to be submitted quiet quickly, so this last area of land should perhaps not be included in

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the application and worked on at a later date. 

The clerk informed the council that the village planting group have requested some planters and specimen trees for an area at Penhelig be included in the grant application.

It was agreed for Cllr Porter to join the green working group.

Action: Clerk to get quotes for tree survey

Action: Clerk to find out the deadline for grant applications

Action: Clerk to find out if the planters and tees for Penhelig can be included 

Action: Working group to meet with the clerk to confirm response to the proposals

Action: Clerk to inform Gwynedd Council of the response

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss land use at the football field

CL/40/15.06.26

The use of the strip of land between the football field and the Railway cottages by the golf club for parking was discussed. It was agreed there is no wish to stop the golf club using the football field, as it is being well-used and there are plans to extend the use for other golfing activities for juniors and beginners. It was agreed for the clerk to request a meeting with the directors of the golf club and Cllrs Hewins, Owen, O’Neill and H. Williams to discuss the parking issue and the council’s plans for that area. 

Action: Clerk to contact the golf club

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider and approve Clerk’s attendance at One Voice Wales conference on 1^st July 2026

CL/41/15.06.26

It was agreed for the clerk to attend the One Voice Wales conference

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill  Seconded: Cllr Porter

Action: Clerk to arrange attendance

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider a grant application from TAITH community transport scheme

CL/42/15.06.26

It was agreed to give a grant of £300 to the TAITH Community Transport Scheme to help with costs.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr D. Williams

AGENDA ITEM 15– Correspondence which requires a response from the Council

CL/43/15.06.26

None received

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council which has already been circulated to Councillors

CL/44/15.06.26

* Hywel Dda University Health Board – Invite to phase 2 consultation on stroke services at Bronglais, 25 June

* One Voice Wales – training dates June – September

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AGENDA ITEM 17 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/45/15.06.26

None

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/46/15.06.26

* Police meeting

* Beach clean 5^th July

* Art Society exhibition

* Neuadd Events

* Cycle path

AGENDA ITEM 21 – Date of next meeting

CL/47/15.06.26

Monday 20^th July

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9.00pm

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18th May 2026

by Sandy Andrews | May 21, 2026 | ** COUNCIL, MINUTES ARCHIVE

 Minutes of the forty-first Annual Meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 18^th May 2026

Present:

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dewi Owen

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

Cllr Henry Williams

2 members of public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Election of Chair of Aberdyfi Community Council for the year 2026-27

CL/1/18.05.26

Cllr Ian Hewins was elected Chair of Aberdyfi Community Council for the year 2026-27.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 2 – To receive the Chair’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office

CL/2/18.05.26

The Declaration of Acceptance of Office for the role of Chair was received

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Election of Vice-Chair of Aberdyfi Community Council for the year 2026-27

CL/3/18.05.26

Cllr Anna Grundy was elected Vice-Chair of Aberdyfi Community Council for the year 2026-27

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To received the Vice Chair’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office

CL/4/18.05.26

The Declaration of Acceptance of Office for the role of Vice-Chair was received

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/5/18.05.26

Apologies were received and accepted from Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To review the Terms of Reference for the Finance Committee

CL/6/18.05.26

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The Terms of Reference for the Finance Committee were reviewed and accepted as seen

Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr Owen

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Appointment of members to the Finance Committee

CL/7/18.05.26

Cllrs Porter, D. Williams and Kelly were appointed members of the Finance Committee

AGENDA ITEM 8 – Appointment of members to outside bodies

CL/8/18.05.26

Members were appointed to the following outside bodies:

8.1 Aberdyfi Advertising & Improvements Committee

All councillors

8.2 Aberdyfi Literary Institute Committee

Cllr Sadie Porter

8.3 Harbour Advisory Committee

Cllr Mark Dunton

8.4 Neuadd Dyfi Management Committee – Councillors with a vote

Cllrs Ian Hewins, Brian Kelly, Dewi Owen, Sadie Porter, Megan Reynolds and Dave Williams 

8.5 Caravan Site Committee

Cllrs Ian Hewins, Brian Kelly, Megan Reynolds and Dave Williams

8.6 Richard Williams and Richard Roberts Trust Fund

Cllrs Ian Hewins, Dewi Owens, Sadie Porter and Henry Williams, with Dave Williams as Trustee.

8.7 Lewis Lloyd Trust

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

8.8 Tywyn and District Memorial Hospital Appeal Fund

Cllrs Brian Kelly with Cllr Dave Williams as deputy

8.9 One Voice Wales

Cllrs Catrin O’Neil and Dewi Owen with Cllr Dave Williams as deputy

8.10 Meirionnydd Access Group

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

8.11 Plastic-Free Aberdyfi

Cllr Sadie Porter

It was noted that there had been no activity of the Tywyn & District Memorial Appeal Fund and Meirionnydd Access Group in the past year and it was queried if these groups still exist. The clerk was asked to look into this.

Action: Clerk to find out if the two groups are still active

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To approve dates of Council meetings for the year 2026-27

CL/9/18.05.26

It was agreed to continue to hold meetings on the third Monday of the month, with the exception of August.

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2026: 15^th June, 20^th July, 21^st September, 19^th October, 16^th November, 21^st December 2027: 18^thJanuary, 15^th February, 15^th March, 19^th April, 17^th May (Annual Meeting)

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To review and adopt Standing Orders

CL/10/18.05.26

The Standing Orders were reviewed and adopted without any changes

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr H. Williams

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To review and adopt Financial Regulations

CL/11/18.05.26

The Financial regulations were reviewed and adopted without any changes

Proposed: Cllr H. Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To review list of Council Assets

CL/12/18.05.26

The asset register was reviewed and accepted

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To appoint an Internal Auditor for 2026/27

CL/13/18.05.26

It was agreed to appoint Steve Lister as Internal Auditor

Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To review the Risk Management Schedule

CL/14/18.05.26

The Risk Management Schedule reviewed and accepted without any changes

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To review the Council’s banking arrangements

CL/15/18.05.26

The clerk recommended that two more councillors become signatories on the Unity Trust bank account account with the ability to authorise payments, resulting in a total of four councillors with this ability. The clerk reminded the council that two councillors are required to authorise any payments.

This was agreed by the council.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr H. Williams

Cllrs Ian Hewins and Anna Grundy agreed to become signatories.

Action: Clerk to add Cllrs Hewins and Grundy as bank signatories

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 20^thApril 2026

CL/16/18.05.26

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 20^th April 2026 were received. Proposed: Cllr H. WilliamsSeconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 17 – To receive and approve the treasurer’s report

CL/17/18.05.26

The treasurer’s report for April was received and approved. 

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Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 18 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/18/18.05.26

Cllr Owen reported that Gwynedd Council has elected Cllr Elin Walker Jones (Plaid Cymru and previous Vice-Chair) as Chair and Cllr Delyth Lloyd Griffiths (Plaid Cymru) as Vice Chair. There was a discussion about how the Chair and Vice-Chair were elected and it is being proposed that gwynedd Council should follow the same procedure as the Senedd, to ensure that all parties are fairly represented. 

Gwynedd Council was asked how much the Article 4 legal process had cost and informed the council that it had cost £0.5 million in legal fees. These fees are now being paid for by rate-payers in Gwynedd. The Council were asked who had made the decisions about Article 4 but no names were forthcoming.

A discussion was held on economic growth in Gwynedd and the Council plan to spend £3million in helping create business and jobs to help young people stay in the area. The money given to Gwynedd from central government has mainly been spent in North Wales with very little if any spent in the southern region of the county. Wylfa, Trawsfynydd and Llanbedr are all receiving funding, but planning constraints may need to be reviewed to make it easier to develop businesses. 

The proposed Tourism Tax was discussed and it is currently out for consultation. Cllr Owen urged everyone to respond to the consultation as it has divide opinion at Gwynedd Council. Gwynedd Council project that it would initially bring in £2 – £4 million, rising to £12 million in about 10 years. It is proposed to charge between 75p and £1.30 per night, depending on the type of accommodation, but there are questions about how it will be administered and how much administration of the scheme will cost versus the income generated. Cllr Owen was asked if the income generated from Aberdyfi would be ring-fenced to be spent on projects in Aberdyfi, but he said he has not had a satisfactory answer to this and again urged everyone to respond to the survey, asking these type of questions. Cllr Owen reported that other Independent Gwynedd councillors like himself had all agreed that the tourism hot-spots of Gwynedd have been much quieter so far this year and many of them are concerned that small businesses may go out of business in the next year.

Cllr Owen informed the council that he is now Chair of the Democracy Committee of Gwynedd Council.

He reported that he will be attending the Network Rail Liaison Committee this week and asked for any issues that he needs to bring up at the meeting.

Action: Councillors to respond to the consultation

Action: Clerk to advertise consultation in Rushlight and social media

AGENDA ITEM 19 – To receive and approve a report from the Clerk

CL/19/18.05.26

The Clerk reported on the following:

* Councillor Vacancy

The clerk has received the notice from the election officer and the notice for a call for an election has been published today. The closing date for a call for an election

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is 8^th June. If no election is called by then, the Council will be able to co-opt a new councillor. 

* Digital noticeboard grants

The clerk has applied for grants from Gwynedd Council and Parc Eryri but has had to request updated quotes from other suppliers as these have been requested by the grant funders. 

* Playing field fence

Cllr Hewins has undertaken the work and it has come in under budget. He has also repaired the tail of the osprey sculpture.

* Kite festival

Preparations are progressing well. 10 metres of rubber matting has been bought and the banners have been ordered. The clerk reported that approximately £100 will be needed every year to change the dates on the banners and the council committed to paying for this. The clerk requested she be allowed to spend approximately £100 on window clings which will be used for advertising the festival. She will sell them at a price to cover the cost of manufacture. The council agreed to her doing this. 

She is waiting to hear whether Tywyn cadets will be able to help with the festival.

She has started posting on Instagram about the festival and it seems to be working very well, with a lot of engagement so far. 

She explained that the workshops will be on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning with no need to book, to allow children from further afield to attend the workshops and she requested help from the council in advertising the festival with posters and word-of-mouth.

The councillors were reminded that they will need to help clear the boardwalk during the week before the festival

* Dovey Inn

The clerk has written to Marstons but has had no reply. Cllr Owen suggested contacting Gwynedd Council licencing department as well

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council licencing department

* Main car park

Gwynedd Council Ardal Ni team have cleared some of the kerbs in the main car park, but were unable to completely clear the whole car park due to cars being in the way. Cllr Hewins reported that he only saw one worker there, not a team and proposed that the Council writes to Gwynedd Council to complain about the state of the main car park, as the railings and steps down to the beach are also in a state of disrepair and need attention. 

Action: Clerk to write to Gwynedd Council

* Police meeting

The clerk reported that there is a pre-summer meeting with the Police on Monday 1^st June at 3pm at the police station to discuss issues and plans for the summer. All councillors are invited to attend, but need to inform the clerk if they wish to do so, so she can give numbers to the police. She confirmed she will be attending.

Action: Councillors to inform the clerk if they wish to attend by Thursday 28^th May.

Action: Clerk to attend meeting on 1^st June

* TAITH community transport scheme

The scheme is now up and running but is in desperate need of more drivers

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Action: Councillors to spread the word that drivers are needed

* Playground swings

The new swing seats should be installed this week

* BCUHB meeting

The 4^th balance room meeting will be held on 4^th June and the clerk and Cllr Owen have been invited to attend.

* Audit

The audit report for 2025-26 has just been received and the clerk will report fully next month, but informed the council that it is a qualified audit. One point she has noticed in the report states that the minutes state the percentage of increase in the precept and a final figure of the precept. It seems it is required that a figure as well as a percentage is needed for full transparency. It was questioned if this is a valid reason for the audit to be qualified. 

* Ongoing

The following are outstanding actions:

* Research parasols for food festival

* Pheasant problems

* Mobile kitchen hire / sell cost

* Research lights for Neuadd Dyfi car park

* Research suitable new sites for yellow salt bins

* Defibrillator location stickers to purchase and display

* Research system to cordon off area of Neuadd Dyfi car park

AGENDA ITEM 20 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/20/18.05.26

NP5/50/LB59G 14 Glandyfi, Aberdyfi LL35 0EB

Replacement of existing dormer windows

No objections raised

NP5/50/700B 29 Mynydd Isaf, Aberdyfi LL35 0PH

Extensions and alterations

No objections raised

NP5/50/427E Crows Nest, Aberdyfi LL35 0NG

Erection of staircase linking the garden

No objections raised

NP5/50/743C Braich Gwyn, Aberdyfi LL35 0RD

Variation of condition 3 attached to planning permission NP5/50/743 dated 20/07/2023 to allow submission of a landscaping scheme following site clearance

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 21 – To discuss and approve allocation of additional parking permits for Penrhos Garage

CL/21/18.05.26

Cllrs Kelly and O’Neill declared an interest in this item.

The clerk reported that Penrhos Garage have purchased 2 permits for Neuadd Dyfi car park but there is still a lot of congestion at the Post Office with cars parked down the side of the building waiting for repairs and people are unable to use the post office at times because the car park in front of the building is completely full.

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Aberdyfi Community Projects have requested that Penrhos Garage be allowed to

have two free permits as well as the two already paid for. The Council agreed this was not acceptable and agreed instead to allow them to purchase two more permits at a discounted rate of £124 instead of £174 and on the condition that the cars stored in the car park are roadworthy and in good repair. 

Proposed: Cllr H. Williams Seconded: Cllr Dunton

Action: Clerk to inform Aberdyfi Community Project of the decision

Action: Clerk to issue invoice and permits if Penrhos Garage agree to the proposal

AGENDA ITEM 22 – To date and format of annual village community meeting

CL/22/18.05.26

The clerk reported that she has booked the Neuadd Dyfi for 8^th June, 7pm-9pm. It was suggested that the format be changed to a drop-in so that each group has a display / table and residents can talk and ask questions individually to the groups. The clerk will arrange refreshments. 

Organisations to be asked to attend:

Aberdyfi Community Council

AA&I

Literary Institute

Neuadd Dyfi

TAITH 

Police

Yacht Club

Rowing club

RNLI

Fire service

Louis Hiatt – Dafad Goch, Carnival, Pantomime etc

Richard Mayou (has written a book on Aberdyfi)

New Senedd members

Action: Clerk to ask organisations to attend

Action: Clerk to arrange refreshments

AGENDA ITEM 23 – To discuss green infrastructure report from Gwynedd Council following meeting with council representatives

CL/23/18.05.26

It was agreed to create a working party to look at the report in more detail and report back. Cllrs Hewins, O’Neill and H. Williams volunteered to be in the working group.

The clerk informed the council that the report recommends that the trees along the road side of the football field be surveyed as soon as possible as at leats one looks dangerous. The clerk has emailed Rhydian Roberts, Tree Officer for Parc Eryri, to ask for his recommendations for suitable companies to carry out a survey. 

It was suggested that the working party could look at the woodland at Penhelig and create a list of information required in order for the council to make an informed decision about whether to accept the offer of a gift of the woodland.

7

Action: Working party to look at report in more detail and report back to the council

Action: Clerk to obtain quotes for a tree survey along the side of the football field

Action: Clerk to add working party report to agenda next month

Action: Working party to create list of information required before making a decision to accept a gift of woodland

AGENDA ITEM 24– Correspondence which requires a response from the Council

CL/24/18.05.26

Cllr Grundy declared an interest in this item

* Email from residents of Rhoslan regarding problems with road and bank in front of properties

It was agreed that the Council has no powers to help or intervene in their situation but that the council are sympathetic to and supportive of their cause.

Action: Clerk to reply in this manner

AGENDA ITEM 25 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council which has already been circulated to Councillors

CL/25/18.05.26

* Letter from Aberdovey English Chapel to Dafad Goch Soapbox Racing

* Notice of nature recovery webinars

* One Voice Wales- training dates May – June

* One Voice Wales – notice of Criccieth Council interview on BBC Radio 4

* Email from GoSafe regarding speeding in Aberdyfi

AGENDA ITEM 26 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/26/18.05.26

* Offer to council of woodland above Penhelig

* Shelter in Penhelig Park requires repairs to roof

* Japanese Knotweed at Gasworks

AGENDA ITEM 27 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/27/18.05.26

* Sgwrsio 1^st June

* Kite festival

* Annual village community meeting 8^th June

* Tourism Tax consultation

AGENDA ITEM 28 – Date of next meeting

CL/28/18.05.26

Monday 15^th June 

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9.10pm

8

20th April 2026

by Sandy Andrews | Apr 23, 2026 | ** COUNCIL, MINUTES ARCHIVE

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 20^th April 2026

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

Cllr Henry Williams

4 members of public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/207/20.04.26

Apologies received and accepted from Cllr Bradbury-Willis.

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/208/20.04.26

The Chair welcomed everyone and congratulated Dafad Goch Soapbox Racing on such a successful event and thanked them for all their hard work in putting on such a large event without any major problems. 

He also congratulated Aberdyfi Recreation Ground on successfully receiving a grant from the National Lottery to refurbish their tennis courts with new a playing surface and drainage.

He noted that the weather for the Soapbox event was warm and sunny, which was the opposite of the wether during the official opening of the playground. Despite a major storm, the event went ahead and many people braved the bad weather to attend. There were a lot more poetry competition entries than anticipated, which was great to see. He thanked everyone for coming out on such a dismal day and noted that the playground has been a great success with a large amount of very positive feedback from adults and children alike. He thanked Cllr Hewins for painting some of the benches, which now look much smarter. Cllr Hewins commented that more benches needed to be done, but he will soon run out of paint. It was agreed for him to purchase more in order to finish the other benches.

Cllr Owen congratulated Nyth Robin on being named one of the top 10 Campsites in Wales and commented that he will be complaining to Parc Eryri about their refusal to grant planning permission for a house to be built for the owners of Nyth Robin on the land and urge them to reconsider. 

He commented that these events and accolades show that Aberdyfi does not stand still and we are very fortunate to have people willing to take the time and effort to organise events like these and create quality amenities for residents and visitors alike. 

63

Cllr Owen informed the council that he had received the resignation of Dr. Sara Bradbury-Willis. He thanked her for all her work on the council and wished her well in the future.

Action: Cllr Hewins to purchase more paint to facilitate painting of benches

Action: Clerk to inform Monitoring Officer of resignation 

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Declaration of financial, personal or prejudicial interest

CL/209/20.04.26

None received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To discuss available grants with Steve Beech, Gwynedd Council

CL/210/20.04.26

Steve was unable to attend the meeting. The clerk presented information about Community Funds grants available from Parc Eryri and the Council agreed to apply for £5,000 from Tier 2 of the available funds to contribute to the digital noticeboard. The Clerk noted that we have been allocated £5,500 from Gwynedd Council and we can also put this towards the noticeboard. Receiving both grants would see the cost to the council drop from £15,000 to £4,500.

It was noted that information on the Parc Eryri grants should be put in Rushlight

Action: Clerk to apply for Parc Eryri Tier 2 funding and to Gwynedd Council

Action: Clerk to add information on Parc Eryri grants to Rushlight

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 16^thMarch 2026

CL/211/20.04.26

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 16^th February 2026 were received. It was noted that changes were required: Cllrs Porter and H. Williams had sent apologies and Cllr O’Neill was present. The minutes were unanimously approved with these changes. 

Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To receive and approve the treasurer’s report

CL/212/20.04.26

The treasurer’s report for April was received and approved. 

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr D. Williams

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To approve payments not previously approved

CL/213/20.04.26

Aled Evans for vegetation control – £1,145.00

Literary Institute for office rent – £3,205.00

Payments were unanimously approved.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Hewins

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/214/20.04.26

64

Cllr Owen reported that no meetings have taken place due to the upcoming Senedd elections. 

He informed the Council that he had several complaints from residents about the road closure in Pennal last week, as people did not see the signs and were surprised when they could not get through Pennal. Residents in Pennal had received abuse from angry motorists, despite signs being in place on the road both sides of the village.

He commented that the new boards on the jetty look good, though he noted that only about two-thirds have been replaced as they were not able to re-use most of the planks as they had hoped as their condition was not good enough. Gwynedd Council are now seeking further funding to replace the other boards.

He informed the Council that the rail line will be closed to Pwllheli from 13th-22nd May.

Action: Clerk to add the rail closure dates to Rushlight 

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive and approve a report from the Clerk

CL/215/20.04.26

The Clerk reported on the following:

* Green & Blue survey

The Clerk has arranged to meet Jack Walmsley on 29^th April at 12.00 at the Neuadd Dyfi to walk round the area we hope to plant trees etc. to discuss options. She invited any interested councillors to join them.

Action: Councillors to attend meeting 29^th April 12.00 at Neuadd Dyfi if wished

* Speeding concerns in Aberdyfi

Gwynedd Council have informed the clerk that the Welsh Government is preparing a revised ‘Setting Local Speed Limits in Wales Guidance’ in 2026 and they are not able to undertake a review of the speed limits in Aberdyfi until after this guidance is published. They will contact us again once this is done. 

Clerk has contacted GoSafe on several occasions, requesting an update about the broken speed lines in the village but has had no reply. 

Action: Clerk to continue trying to contact GoSafe

* Food Festival

Stalls have been allocated and the clerk has started receiving payments and relevant documents from the attendees

It was suggested that the information about Parc Eryri grants be passed onto the organisers of the Food Festival

The clerk has not researched parasols yet

* Action: Clerk to research cost of parasols

* Action: Clerk to pass on grant information

* Pheasant problems

Clerk has not had time to do anything about this yet

* Action: Clerk to contact pheasant breeders

* Allotment wall

Work has now finished though the scaffolding is still in place

* Mobile kitchen

Clerk has not had time to research selling / hiring of kitchen

* Action: Clerk to research selling / hiring out of kitchen

65

* Lights in Neuadd Dyfi car park

Clerk has not had time to research cost of solar lights for the Neuadd Dyfi car park

* Action: Clerk to research cost of lights

* Yellow salt bins

The clerk has not had time to look into this yet

Action: Cllr Hewins and Clerk to research suitable sites for new bins

* Bin compound

Work has finished and is secured with a coded padlock. Contractor use un-planed pressure-treated wood and this came in at the same price as the original budget. Cllr Hewins informed the council that the wood will need to be treated in 2 or 3 year’s time and it was agreed to do this.

* Playing field fence

Aled Evans informed the clerk that the hedge between the playing field and the Neuadd Dyfi car park could be made a lot thicker by better management, removing the need for a fence along that edge of the field. The Council agreed this was a better solution to replacing the fence. Cllr Hewins noted that the hedge cannot be cut now until after the breeding season so will not thicken for at least a year or two and offered to do a temporary repair to the 12 damaged posts, to last two or three years until the hedge has thickened. He costed it at approximately £700-£800. The Council agreed to this solution.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins  Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

* Kite festival

To be held on 27 & 28 June

The clerk met with Red Dragon Kites last week and everything is on track for the festival and the Land Use Agreement application has been submitted.

The clerk reminded the Council that they had agreed to purchase matting at a cost of approximately £100 for 10m, banners at a cost of approximately £40 each and pay for the hire of the hall – approximately £80-£100. The council unanimously agreed to these purchases and agreed to buy 5 banners, without a date on them to allow for future use.

The clerk has agreed with the harbourmaster for the use of Cllr Owen’s quad bike on the beach, to help with moving stakes and kites and she informed the council that they agreed to clear the board walk of sand before the festival and she will need help doing this. 

She informed the council that she is trying to contact Tywyn cadets to see if they might be able to help move kites to and from the beach but as yet has been unable to contact them. 

Action: Clerk to purchase matting and banners.

Action: Clerk to continue trying to contact Tywyn cadets.

Action: Clerk and councillors to clear board walk of sand prior to event

* Social media training

The clerk reported that she attended some training provided by One Voice Wales last week on using social media for events. She is planning on trying to use Instagram as well as Facebook to promote the kite festival and noted that the Council may need to thinking about having its own Instagram account. 

66

* Audit Wales

Audit report still not received and the clerk has started preparing the documents for this year’s audit.

* Sauna enquiry

The clerk had another enquiry about setting up a sauna in Aberdyfi and told them no suitable location could be found last time this was investigated. 

* Garage and car repairs in Post Office building

Wyn Humphreys has moved back into the building at the Post Office and has asked for 2 parking permits for the Neuadd Dyfi car park. The clerk asked what the agreement was last time he was there but it was unclear what the exact agreement was. It was agreed to monitor the situation as last time more cars were parked there than permitted. 

* Check facts

The clerk reminded the councillors to fact check what they plan to say when speaking to members of the public as there have been a few instances recently when people have got their facts wrong. 

Action: Councillors to check facts before speaking to members of the public.

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/216/20.04.26

NP5/50/L212D 5 Nantiesyn, Aberdyfi LL35 0NB

Extensions and alterations

No objections raised

NP5/50/L435B Flat 1, Bryntegwel, Balkan Hill, Aberdyfi LL35 0NH

Replacement window

No objections raised

Premises licence application 4-5 Seaview Terrace, Aberdyfi LL35 0EE

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss digital health report and recommendations from One Voice Wales

CL/217/20.04.26

The clerk reported that she had filled in a questionnaire recently from One voice Wales and this is the result of that questionnaire.  The council agreed it did not need to move to a .gov web address as it felt the .wales one was sufficient to give public confidence. She informed the council that the web developer has increased the spam filters on all council email addresses and so she will be moving to using only council email addresses in the near future. She has also set up a page on the website solely for meeting documents. Supporting documents will be uploaded here prior to the meeting and a link included in the agenda, so that members of the public will be able to access the documents as well as councillors. The documents will then be removed after the meeting. This removes the need for using Microsoft Teams or Google workspace. Cllr Kelly noted that if the Council were to use Teams, it would probably have to pay for add-ons in order to get the functionality required for sharing documents and live-streaming meetings. 

The clerk intends to attend the digital training that One Voice Wales plan to run in the future.

67

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider and approve moving to a different provider for online meetings

CL/218/20.04.26

The clerk presented a proposal to move to using Zoom for meetings, which will allow online meetings to be streamed to Youtube from the one device, as she is currently unable to do this. It was unanimously agreed to the move.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill  Seconded: Cllr Hewins

Action: Clerk to move provider

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider and approve purchase of stickers / signs showing where nearest defibrillator is located

CL/219/20.04.26

It was agreed to purchase 10 stickers at a cost of £24.98 and put up

Proposed: Cllr Kelly  Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Action: Clerk to purchase stickers and put up

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider parking problems at Neuadd Dyfi car park and installing bollards to enable blocking off an area outside the hall entrance

CL/220/20.04.26

Desmond George has been having some problems recently with parking at the Neuadd Dyfi. One example was an 80^th birthday party and he put the large green bins across the section of the parking area closest to the disabled parking bays, to enable elderly people attending the event to park close to the entrance. Other people not involved in the event moved the bins and parked in both the normal and disabled spaces and were abusive when challenged about moving the bins. Mr George is therefore seeking a better way to secure a few parking spaces when required for events. The clerk noted that the Council have some bollards that were purchase but never installed, so suggested these could be installed and a chain strung between them, when required. It was noted signs and fluorescent tape would need to be incorporate as well. The council agreed this would be a good solution and asked the clerk to establish costs.

Action: Clerk to cost installing bollards and chain.

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To consider grant request from Llangollen National Eisteddfod

CL/221/20.04.26

It was agreed not to approve a grant as it is not local.

All councillors declared an interest in the following item

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To consider increasing rent for storage cupboard

CL/222/20.04.26

The clerk informed the council that the rent charged for storage space in the cupboard for the AA&I has not been increased for several years. It was agreed to increase the rent by current inflation of 3% to £429.20.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Porter

68

AGENDA ITEM 17– Correspondence which requires a response from the Council

CL/223/20.04.26

* Trefeddian Hotel regarding recent problems with water supply

It was noted that there have been burst water mains at least five times in the last 12 months and it is not just the inconvenience of not water, it is the noise when they pump the water from the tankers and also the environmental impact of the tankers driving to and from the site. 

It was agreed to write to the Trefeddian giving the council’s full support and to find out who represents our area at Welsh water and ask them to attend a council meeting. 

Action: Clerk to contact Trefeddian

Action: Clerk to contact Dwr Cymru to establish area representative and request they attend a meeting

* Dafad Goch Soapbox Racing

The Council congratulated the organisers and thanked them for organising such a successful event and recognised the huge amount of work and effort that had gone into it. The councillors have all had feedback from members of the public saying what a wonderful event it was and how much everyone enjoyed it, the only request is for it not to be on Easter Sunday next year, maybe a different Sunday or week-day during the Easter holidays, or perhaps the first bank holiday in May. Dafad Goch informed the council that the first bank holiday in May is Machynlleth Comedy Festival, so is not appropriate for that weekend. It was noted that no councillors or members of the AA&I had volunteered to help on the day, which the council acknowledged was a fair comment and resolved to do better next year. 

* Cambrian Coast Railway liaison meeting May 22^nd request for issues

* Dovey Inn

A letter was received regarding the dilapidated state of the exterior of the Dovey Inn requesting the Council write to Marstons to urge them to do something about it

Action: Clerk to write to Marstons

AGENDA ITEM 18 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council which has already been circulated to Councillors

CL/224/20.04.26

* Ambition North Wales – quarterly newsletter

* One Voice Wales – free training places for councillors 2026-27

* Email from Carys Fowles regarding the Dafad Goch Soapbox Racing event

* One Voice Wales – placement opportunities with Rural Wales Advisory Board

* Menter Mon – notice of Shared Prosperity Fund closure

* One Voice Wales – Section 7 species and habitat priority lists

* Llais Cymru – invite to official launch of National Eisteddfod 2027

AGENDA ITEM 19 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/225/20.04.26

* Offer to council of woodland above Penhelig

* Rhoslan residents concerns regarding bank below Rhoslan

69

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/226/20.04.26

* Dafad Goch event

* Parc Eryri grants

* Nyth Robin

* Rail closure dates

AGENDA ITEM 21 – Date of next meeting

CL/227/20.04.26

Monday 18^th May – Annual Meeting

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.50pm

70

16th March 2026

by Sandy Andrews | Mar 18, 2026 | ** COUNCIL, MINUTES ARCHIVE

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 16^th March 2026

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors: Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/188/16.03.26

Apologies received and accepted from Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Porter and H. Williams.

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/189/16.03.26

The Chair welcomed everyone and noted that the weather has finally changed for the better which is welcome to everyone, especially farmers and local businesses. He noted that the war in Iran will have consequences for all of us, which is not so welcome.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Declaration of financial, personal or prejudicial interest

CL/190/16.03.26

None received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Presentation from Nia Edwards and Jack Walmsley, Gwynedd Council, on the proposed Green & Blue Infrastructure study

CL/191/16.03.26

Nia is a climate change professional and Jack is a tree ecologist with Gwynedd Council and presented plans to conduct a green and blue study in Aberdyfi to identify areas for improvement for water management, biodiversity, sewage management and other areas affecting / affected by climate change. NRW has identified that Aberdyfi and Tywyn have the lowest green & blue equity in Gwynedd and the Welsh Local Government Association has provided funding to conduct the survey in these areas as well as others. They will be tendering for professionals to undertake the survey shortly with a view to the report being finished sometime in the Autumn. It will then be decided how to act on the findings. Aberdyfi Community Council will be involved throughout the process and it is hoped to have a public meeting to receive ideas from the community as well. 

Councillors gave feedback on areas in the village already identified as sites for improvement such as Morfa Gypsies and the sand dunes and expressed their commitment to being involved in the project. 

57

Jack offered to visit again in the near future to discuss ideas about what could be planted in the areas already planned for planting by the Community Council, ie. football field and playing field. 

Action: Clerk to arrange meeting with Jack and interested councillors

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Presentation from Steve Beech, grants officer Gwynedd Council

CL/192/16.03.26

Steve informed the Council about the Town and Community Council Fund that has just opened for councils in Gwynedd, with Aberdyfi Community Council able to apply for up to £5,500, and he encouraged the council to think of projects it could be used for. He confirmed that the funding could be used towards a digital noticeboard and mentioned that other funds will be coming online soon, with larger amounts available. He offered to attend next month’s meeting to give more information and the council agreed they would like him to attend.

Steve also mentioned the Communities grants, which are available to any constituted group with a bank account and it was agreed to put this information in Rushlight. 

Action: Clerk to add to agenda for next month

Action: Clerk to include community grants information to Rushlight 

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 16^thFebruary 2026

CL/193/16.03.26

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 16^th February 2026 were received and unanimouslyapproved.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr D. Williams

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To receive and approve the treasurer’s report

CL/194/16.03.26

The treasurer’s report for March was received and approved. 

Proposed: Cllr Hewins  Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/195/16.03.26

Cllr Owen reported that the council tax will increase by 5.1% this year, but there will not be as many cuts as feared, due to unexpected money given to Gwynedd Council by the Welsh Government. 

He noted that Aberdyfi had been in the papers recently, with the refurbishment of the playground and refurbishment of the tennis courts in the recreation ground. Both projects have been funded mainly through the National Lottery and he thanked the clerk and everyone involved in securing the funding, as it takes a lot of work and effort to secure funding like this. He also noted that projects like this show how proactive the community of Aberdyfi is and we are very lucky to live in such a positive community. 

He informed the council that many of the boards on the jetty are in the process of

58

being replaced, though no final cost has been given yet. He noted that there is a harbour users meeting tomorrow and they will find out then. 

He will be attending the Cambrian Coast Network Rail committee meeting on Wednesday evening when he hopes to receive more information on the new trains which are being introduced to the line in the Autumn. He noted that the new trains will carry less passengers but will have increased toilet and bike facilities. Cllr Kelly asked if the plan is to have longer trains on the line and how this will be facilitated given Aberdyfi platform has only a short raised section. Cllr Hewins noted that Network Rail plan to make redundancies and expressed concern how this will affect the service. 

Cllr Hewins expressed his gratitude to Gwynedd Council for the good condition of the roads in Gwynedd. He noted that compared to England where he was recently, the roads here are in very good condition.

Cllr Owen read a letter received from Simon Hawkins regarding the speed of traffic travelling along the road by the golf club. The council agreed with his concerns and agreed to write to Gwynedd Council Highways to highlight the problem and ask for the speed to be monitored along that section, with a view to reducing the speed to 30mph between the 20mph limit and Trefeddian Terrace.

Action: Clerk to reply to Mr. Hawkins

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council 

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive and approve a report from the Clerk

CL/196/16.03.26

The Clerk reported on the following:

* Meeting with Parc Eryri to discuss planting trees

Parc Eryri have not been in contact yet.

* Food Festival

Tom & Rhian Jones have confirmed they will supply small bales for the festival this year. Clerk will research cost of parasols

Action: Clerk to research cost of parasols

* Pheasant problem

Tried to contact Cambrian Birds again but still no response

Action: Clerk to keep trying to contact them

* Allotment wall

Work has started and all going well.

* Mobile kitchen

Still needs to be brought to Aberdyfi. 

Clerk has not researched selling / renting kitchen yet

Action: Cllrs Owen & Hewins to move kitchen to Aberdyfi

Action: Clerk to research selling / hiring kitchen

* Playground opening ceremony

The clerk gave a suggested running order and noted that the signs need to be put up prior to the ceremony. Cllr Hewins volunteered to do this. The clerk requested help on the day to remove a section of concrete fence.

There were 3 entries in the Welsh Adults category, 3 in Welsh learners and 5 in Welsh children’s category of the poetry competition. 17 entries were received in the

English category, so Cllr O’Neill proposed splitting the English category into children

59

and Adults and asking the AA&I for another £20 for the extra prize. This was agreed unanimously. This resulted in 11 entries in the English Adults and 6 entries in the English children’s category. 

Cllr O’Neill asked if the fire station will be available for use in case of rain and the clerk conformed this will be the case. Cllr O’Neill confirmed she will bring a PA system.

* Neuadd Dyfi car park

The clerk is still waiting for a reply from Gwynedd Council regarding a Traffic Regulation Order on the land.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council again

* Lights in Neuadd Dyfi car park

Clerk has not had time to research this yet

* Yellow bins

Clerk has not had time to research this yet

* Dafad Goch

The clerk received an update on the Dafad Goch Soapbox Racing event as follows: the Facebook page has had 215k views and 15k clicks per link on each post. They have sent out 48 applications and to 6^th March, 17 had been returned. 9 catering stalls have booked for the square. Affected residents have had a letter and another will be delivered shortly containing emergency contact details, event schedule and car parking arrangements. Shops in the square have been briefed and reassurance given that the stalls will not be directly in front of the shops if they are open on the day. The churches have been briefed and the start time will not clash with Easter services. Planning is going smoothly with a number of sponsors, donations in kind for equipment and volunteers on the day. The clerk informed the council that there is a volunteer meeting on Wednesday this week at 7pm in the Neuadd Dyfi, all welcome. 

* Youth club

Gwynedd Council recruited 2 workers, but then it became apparent that they couldn’t commit to running the youth club every week, so Gwynedd are now going to re-advertise with a view to starting the youth club in September when the children go back to school.

* Website & emails

A new Policy documents page has been added to the website and another page specifically for meeting documents. The councillors will need to start using their council emails exclusively soon to comply with GDPR etc. The spam settings have been increased so there should be very little spam now. Clerk will present the report on Aberdyfi Community Council’s digital health next month.

Action: Clerk to update website and arrange emails

Action: Clerk to add digital health report to April agenda

* Visit from Gwynedd Council Waste & Recycling Officer

Guy Slater visited the clerk and discussed the bin situation in the village. He will place locked bins at the bottom of the path opposite the council office for surrounding houses, as there has been a lot of problems with bins at the top of Church Street and he will monitor the situation. The Clerk asked him about having better recycling facilities in the main car park and confirmed that he is the one to notify when a coded padlock is put on the new bin compound. 

60

Action: Clerk to inform Guy Slater of padlock code

* Neuadd car park signs

New signs have arrived. Clerk will arrange for them to be installed. She confirmed the machine is working normally and taking payments.

* Road closure in Pennal

The clerk reminded the council that the road in Pennal will be closed from 13^th – 15^th April inclusive and the only way round will be via Tal y Llyn. Copperhill Street will also be closed under the railway bridge, for up to 3 days from the 13^th April. 

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/197/16.03.26

NP5/50/741A 4 Melin Ardudwy, Aberdyfi LL35 0RY

Installation of solar panels on the roof and external batteries unit on North elevation

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To discuss concerns regarding playground equipment

CL/198/16.03.26

The clerk reported that the contractors had provided information from the manufacturers about the safety of the equipment and noted that it quotes the EN 1176 standards, which state that there is ‘a balance between the need to provide risk and the necessity of protecting children from serious injuries’ and ‘it is essential that children learn to cope with risk’. The contractor confirmed that ‘in terms of litigation, the council is covered.’

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider and approve quote for connecting digital noticeboard to the electrical supply in shelter next to main toilets

CL/199/16.03.26

The clerk reported that the quote was £259 + VAT. It was agreed to accept the quote unanimously.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider and approve increase in quote for bin compound

CL/200/16.03.26

The increase is £528 due to increase in cost of wood. Cllr Hewins proposed asking the contractor to use pressure-treated pine instead of larch, which would be cheaper. This was agreed.

Action: Clerk to ask contractor to give a quote for pressure treated pine

Cllr Hewins proposed that in similar situations in future, the clerk should either talk to two councillors and gain their approval, or email all the councillors for approval to spend, instead of waiting til the next council meeting. Agreed unanimously.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr D. Williams

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider and approve increase in quote for repair to playing field fence

CL/201/16.03.26

61

The increase in the quote is due to all the posts on one side of the field needing to be replaced, not just some of them. The Council agreed the increase seemed excessive and agreed for Cllrs Owen and Hewins to survey the area and decide what work needs to be done.

Action: Cllrs Owen and Hewins to survey playing field fence and report back

AGENDA ITEM 14– Correspondence which requires a response from the Council

CL/202/16.03.26

* Letter regarding Transport for Wales from member of public

It was agreed to raise this at the Cambrian Coast Railway meeting

Action: Cllr Owen to raise at Cambrian Coast Railway meeting

Action: Clerk to reply to letter informing them of this

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council which has already been circulated to Councillors

CL/203/16.03.26

* One Voice Wales – Older People’s Commissioner’s newsletter Feb 2026

* DBCC – Annual Remuneration report 2026-27

* Parc Eryri – Record of Communities Forum meeting held on 5^th February 2026

* Mantell Gwynedd – March information bulletin

* One Voice Wales – Joint OVW & Planning Aid Wales event, March 19^th

* Ynys Mon CAB – notice of free training

* One Voice Wales – training dates March – June 2026

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/204/16.03.26

* Feedback from Network Rail

* Cllr O’Neill requested the council consider investigating the bubbles that appear on the surface of the river. Cllr. D. Williams said he would raise it at the harbour users meeting. Cllr Hewins reported that he has seen the harbourmaster testing the water on several occasions. The clerk reminded the council that NRW have just started a project to research the amount and content of pollution that goes into the Dyfi and that Cllrs Porter and H. Williams are involved in the project. 

AGENDA ITEM 17 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/205/16.03.26

* Congratulations to the recreation ground on new tennis courts

* Dafad Goch event

* Playground opening

* TAITH call for volunteer drivers

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Date of next meeting

CL/206/16.03.26

Monday 20^th April

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.50pm

62

16th February 2026

by Sandy Andrews | Feb 18, 2026 | ** COUNCIL, MINUTES ARCHIVE

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 16^th February 2026

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

1 member of public were present

Public Participation session

Mike Riley gave a short presentation on the TAITH community transport scheme and asked everyone to spread the word that the scheme will be starting within the next month and is looking for volunteer drivers. 

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/172/16.02.26

Apologies received and accepted from Cllrs Dunton and O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/173/16.02.26

The Chair welcomed everyone. He congratulated the Aberdyfi Players on their successful pantomime production of Pinocchio. He noted that there are no trains running for the next week due to work on the line North of Barmouth. There is a Network Rail meeting next week so he will be able to give a more detailed update next month, but it is hoped to have new trains running on the line in September. The playground has been full of children since it opened last week and it is fabulous to see so many children enjoying the space. He informed the council that he asked Gwynedd Council how much the Article 4 challenge had cost, but was not given a clear answer. He has asked for a figure by next meeting. It was noted that there are no plans for Parc Eryri to remove the Article 4 direction in the Parc, so it will still apply to everyone in the Parc. 

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Declaration of financial, personal or prejudicial interest

CL/174/16.02.26

Cllr Kelly declared an interest in Agenda Item 8.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 19^thJanuary 2026

CL/175/16.02.26

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 19^th January 2026 were received and unanimouslyapproved.

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Kelly

51

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and approve the treasurer’s report

CL/176/16.02.26

The treasurer’s report for February was received and approved. The clerk informed the council that bank charges will be increasing from £6 to £7 per month as of this month.

Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr Hewins

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/177/16.02.26

Cllr Owen reported that there was an Economy committee meeting last week and the North Wales Growth Scheme was discussed. At the meeting it was stated that a lot of money has been put into North Wales as a result of the scheme, but when questioned further, it became apparent that not much had been done for Gwynedd and there had been complaints that there was too much red tape in order to receive the grants, so many people had given up part way through their application. Two projects are ongoing from the scheme – one at Trawsfynydd power station and one at Glynllifan, to milk sheep. It also became apparent that 49 people had been employed to administer the scheme, so it does not seem to have been a useful scheme for the people of Gwynedd. Cllr Owen asked how much connection there had been between the North Wales scheme and the mid-Wales scheme and they were unable to give him an answer.

The potential tourism tax was discussed and Gwynedd Council informed the councillors that it is estimated it would bring in between £2.5m and £3m per year. This estimate was done by a company based in Leeds. The tax would be 75p – £1.90 per night, plus VAT, as London Government has decreed it is not VAT exempt. Cllr Owen asked about motorhomes parking at the side of the road and people wild camping and the response was “there’s not a lot we can do about that”. He asked how much it will cost to run, how it will be policed, how it will be collected from eg. AirBnBs, but they couldn’t give him an answer. It is planned to be introduced in 2028 and there will be a lot of consultation before then, so there will be an opportunity for an open public meeting in Aberdyfi as part of this process. 

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To receive and approve a report from the Clerk

CL/178/16.02.26

The Clerk reported on the following:

* Digital Noticeboard

The harbourmaster has offered for us to connect to the supply in the cupboard where we have just replaced the doors and he won’t charge for the electricity. Phil Pugh has checked the cupboard and says it will be much easier to connect to there than the toilets, so waiting for a quote for this.

* Meeting with Parc Eryri to discuss planting trees

Parc Eryri have not been in contact yet.

* Food Festival

Haven’t been able to research cost of hiring chairs and parasols yet.

Action: Clerk to research cost of parasols, tables and benches etc.

52

* Pheasant problem

Tried to contact Cambrian Birds on several occasions but they have not responded

Action: Clerk to keep trying to contact them

* Allotment wall

Work to start 2^nd March and take about 3 weeks

* Mobile kitchen

Still needs to be brought to Aberdyfi. Cllr Hewins spoke to Des, who requested it be done after panto had finished, so he will contact him again and organise the move

* Cupboard doors

Clerk was asked if we wanted contractor to put Osmo oil on the doors at a cost of £250 so she said we’d do it as we have oil in stock. One coat applied so far.

* Playground opening ceremony

The clerk reported the playground passed it’s safety inspection and she is doing the final report for the Lottery and asked for any quotes from councillors that could be included.

Swings are on order and will be installed as soon as received.

Clerk has bought some paint and the bottom black strip will be painted before opening ceremony

Flora & Bronwen agreed to cut ribbon. Council agreed to buy a bouquet of flowers for them.

Fire service agreed to use their compound and will take fire engine out

Tasty Truck, Pink Pod, Samba band and magician all confirmed

Sign has been bought, but needs put up.

Benches have all been put in one corner of the playground but need to be painted.

Clerk has ordered bunting and other promotional items from the National Lottery and the clerk has other bunting to add to it and will buy some ribbon

Competition posters have been designed and put up and distributed and Ruth Roberts Owen has agreed to be the judge. The council agreed to buy her a bouquet of flowers.

Someone is needed to make a speech.

Feedback so far. Everyone loves the playground but received an email telling us a 3 year-old nearly fell through one of the openings from the inside. Comments also received that the slide at the back facing the fire station compound is close to the wall and they are concerned a child may come off the bottom of the slide and hit the wall. The clerk explained that there is a safety zone around each piece of equipment and these zones are not allowed to overlap with any other zone. It was agreed to send these comments to Elevate Play for their consideration.

It was suggested a QR code be created with a link to the clerk’s email address for feedback to be displayed in the playground and it was agreed to do this.

Action: Clerk to purchase flowers, ribbon etc, for opening ceremony

Action: Clerk to send comments to Elevate Play

Action: Clerk to create and display a QR code in the playground

*Ardal Ni team

In Aberdyfi 16-20 February and the clerk has asked them to cut back the vegetation by the fire station and clean along the kerb edges in the main car park. It was noted that the trees by Craig y Don have been causing vehicles to lose their mirrors

53

due to the narrow roadway as a result of the roadworks. It was agreed to write to the residents and ask them to cut them back when possible. It was suggested that Burma Road also needs cut back. 

Action: Clerk to write to residents at Craig y Don

Action: Clerk to speak to Aled regarding Burma Road 

* Dafad Goch Soap Box Racing

Event has been confirmed for 5^th April after a SAG meeting.

* Caterham Car Club

They have informed us they will be coming on 16^th May this year.

* NRW

They have informed us that they are doing a project to identify the amount and different types of rubbish that is being introduced into the Dyfi estuary. Cllrs Porter, H. Williams and Phil Morgan from Plastic Free Aberdyfi have been put in contact with the project manager.

* Gwynedd Council green & blue infrastructure feasibility study

Gwynedd Council have had a grant to do this study and wish to attend the next council meeting to explain more about it and how the council can help.

Action: Clerk to arrange

* Neuadd Dyfi car park

There has been some debate on Facebook as to whether the Neuadd Dyfi car park was left to the people of Aberdyfi. The clerk has looked through the paperwork in the office and can find no evidence that this is the case, though there is a lease agreement and we pay Gwynedd Council every year for this lease, as well as rates for the car park. The councillors do not recall it being left to the people of the village either. The debate on Facebook informed people that the council could not fine people for parking overnight in their motorhomes and the clerk fears there might be an increase in people breaking the rules as a result. She has contacted Gwynedd Council who have said they could put a Traffic Regulation Order on the land, which would allow us to enforce parking restrictions, though didn’t say how much it would cost. She will find out how much it would cost, how it would work and report back.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

* Welsh Blood donation service

At the Neuadd Dyfi Wednesday 18^th February

* SIARC project

Event at Neuadd Dyfi Tuesday 17^th February about research that has been carried out into the sharks, skates and rays that inhabit our local waters.

* Gwynedd Council upcoming grants

Email from Gwynedd Council received informing us that there will be grant opportunities coming up to support projects to improve community spaces and requesting attending a meeting. It was agreed to see if the digital noticeboard might be eligible for the funding and to ask them to attend the next meeting.

Action: Clerk to arrange

* Footpath No.14 behind Penhelig Arms

It has been brought to the attention of the clerk that the new railings are loose. She has informed the footpaths team and they will ask the contractors to repair it.

54

* First Aid qualification

The clerk reported that she did a first aid course recently, so can now be the nominated first aider at events. Cllr Porter was also on the course, so could also possibly fulfil this role. 

The clerk noted that defibrillators were discussed during the course and she asked if there was one at the Penhelig end of the village, as the one closest to the Penhelig Arms may be at the Institute. Cllr D. Williams offered to check that end of the village and report back. The clerk also noted that it was suggested that more signs are put up in the village, directing people to the nearest defibrillator. Cllr. Kelly suggested putting up more maps of defibrillator locations. It was agreed to discuss this at the next meeting.

Action: Cllr D. Williams to check if any defibrillators near the Penhelig Arms

Action: Clerk to add to agenda for next month

Cllr D. Williams thanked the clerk for moving so many projects forward 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/179/16.02.26

NP5/50/626A Murmur y Don, Aberdyfi LL35 0NS

Engineering works, including the erection of retaining walls to construct a garage.

No objections raised

NP5/50/743B Braich Gwyn, Aberdyfi, LL35 0RD

Installation of water tank

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider purchase and installation of a wildlife camera in Neuadd Dyfi car park

CL/180/16.02.26

It was suggested that a camera with an SD card would run out of memory too quickly, so one linked to the existing system at the Neuadd Dyfi would be better, though running the wires to the camera might present a problem. It was suggested that better solar lights with motion sensors might be a better option in the far corner of the car park. It was agreed to research different options further.

Action: Clerk to research options

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To consider purchase of yellow rock-salt bins

CL/181/16.02.26

The clerk informed the council that these would have to be paid for by the Community Council and Gwynedd Council would need to approve the potential sites before installation. The clerk suggested together with a councillor, she walks round the village to establish where existing yellow bins are sited and look at potential new sites. Cllr Hewins offered to walk round with the clerk.

Action: Clerk and Cllr Hewins to look at sites for yellow bins 

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider purchase of SIM card for digital noticeboard

CL/182/16.02.26

55

The clerk presented a report on different SIM cards available that use the EE network, which has the most signal strength at the wharf. It was agreed to go with the cheapest option, Lyca, at £10 per month, though to check first that we would not be locked into a long contract. 

Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

Action: Clerk to check contract before purchase

AGENDA ITEM 12– Correspondence which requires a response from the Council

CL/183/16.02.26

None received

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council which has already been circulated to Councillors

CL/184/16.02.26

* One Voice Wales – joint OVW & Planning Aid Wales event, March 19^th

* Cambrian Railway Partnership – notice of event, February 24^th

* Planning Aid wales – Flood Risk seminar, March 11^th

* NRW – Borth to Ynyslas coastal adaptation project

* Cambrian Rail – rail closure, 14-23 February

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/185/16.02.26

* Presentation from Gwynedd Council on Green & Blue infrastructure feasibility study

* Presentation from Gwynedd Council on upcoming grant opportunities

AGENDA ITEM 15 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/186/16.02.26

* Beach clean 1^st March

* Community Lunch 13^th March

* Congratulations to Aberdyfi Players

* TAITH call for volunteer drivers

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Date of next meeting

CL/187/16.02.26

Monday 16^th March

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.30pm

56

19th January 2026

by Sandy Andrews | Jan 22, 2026 | ** COUNCIL, MINUTES ARCHIVE

 Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 19^th January 2025

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

Cllr Henry Williams

2 members of public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/152/19.01.26

None received

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/153/19.01.26

The Chair welcomed everyone and wished them a Happy New Year. He commented that it was nice to see that the village was once again busy over New Year, as it has been in previous years. He noted that the Trefeddian Hotel opens again this week so numbers of visitors should start to pick up. 

He congratulated the Talyllyn Railway on receiving £3.7 million from the National Lottery which will go towards work on the engines and wharf area amongst other things and which will hopefully bring more visitors to the area. 

He noted Gwynedd Council have had a 3 month extension on the scaffolding at the Corbett Hotel, but there is no news yet about what the long term plan is for the building. 

He announced that there is a public meeting about the Dyfi Ward on Thursday 22^nd January in Tywyn.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Declaration of financial, personal or prejudicial interest

CL/154/19.01.26

Cllr O’Neill declared an interest in the correspondence item regarding Tir Canol.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 15^thDecember 2025

CL/155/19.01.26

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 15^th December 2025 were received and unanimouslyapproved.

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Kelly

45

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and approve the treasurer’s report

CL/156/19.01.26

The Clerk informed the Council that the payment for rocksalt was to replace rocksalt that Gareth Jones of Tyddyn Rhys Farm had used to salt the upper roads of Aberdyfi on behalf of the council. A small spreader had been bought several years ago by the council and it had been agreed to store it at the farm, together with a supply of rocksalt and Mr. Jones had agreed to use it with his quad bike if the need should arise. In the recent icy weather, Mr. Jones used all his supply as well as everything in the yellow bins in the area, so the clerk bought a new supply and delivered it to the farm. The Community Council wishes to express it’s gratitude to Mr Jones for all his work in keeping the upper roads of Aberdyfi salted for everyone in the community. It is much appreciated. 

The treasurer’s report for January was received and approved

Proposed: Cllr H. Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/157/19.01.26

Cllr Owen reported that there have been no meetings since last month’s meeting.

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To receive and approve a report from the Clerk

CL/158/19.01.26

The Clerk reported on the following:

* Digital Noticeboard

The clerk is still waiting for Phil Pugh to give a quote for connecting the digital noticeboard.

* Article 4

The clerk emailed Parc Eryri asking if they plan to repeal Article 4 and she had a reply informing the council that Article 4 came into effect on 1^st June 2025 and even although Gwynedd Council have revoked Article 4, Parc Eryri are ‘not in a position to pause the operation of Article 4’.

* Meeting with Parc Eryri to discuss planting trees

She has not been contacted by Parc Eryri yet.

* Food Festival

She met with the organisers last week and it was agreed to go ahead with the festival on 16^th August as usual, though it is not clear if Race the Train will happen, as they need to find a treasurer, she has been told. It was agreed to accept applications until end of March and they will then make a decision by mid-April about who to invite, to ensure a wide spread of products. It was agreed not to exclude local businesses from having a stall and the reason some businesses didn’t have a stall last year was because they applied too late and all spots had been allocated. Since last week, over 30 requests for application forms have been received, 12 of which are brand new suppliers. 

It was agreed to increase the price of stalls slightly, as the price has remained the same since the food festival started 8 years ago and to have 2 more stalls this year, giving a total of 28. 

The organisers informed the clerk that they initially agreed they would run the

46

festival for 10 years, making 2027 the last year they intend to run the festival, so new organisers may need to be found after next year. 

The Neuadd Dyfi has bought a wi-fi booster which should solve the connectivity problem for card purchases this year. 

It was agreed that parasols would be a good addition to the festival and it was suggested that they might be hired rather than bought. It was agreed for the clerk to research this.

It was noted that it is difficult to get small bales of hay now and last year it was a difficult process, as large bales had to be split into smaller ones and re-tied, just for the food festival. It was suggested that benches or tables are hired instead. It was agreed to research the cost of these.

Action: Clerk to research cost of parasols, tables and benches etc.

* Pheasant problem

The clerk informed the council that has has been given the contact details for one of the people responsible for breeding pheasants locally who have said they will set up traps in the allotments to catch stray birds, but as yet she has been unable to speak to them. Cllr Owen suggested contacting Cambrian Birds.

It was agreed that traps need to be put in various locations around the village, not just the allotments.

Action: Clerk to contact them again and request traps in other locations

* Roadworks by railway bridge on Bodfor Terrace.

These works are being carried out by Wales & West Utilities and they are replacing the main gas pipe between the railway bridge and Rhoslan. They have had problems with pipes not being located where they expected and as a result, they may need to close the road completely. If they do, they will need to apply for a road closure at least 3 months in advance and they would hope to only lose the road overnight for a couple of nights. In the meantime, they will finish the work to the Post Office and then come back at a later date to do the rest of the work. 

They are still using the Neuadd Dyfi car park to store equipment and the Council has had payment up to 4^thJanuary, so will receive £125 for every week up until they remove it. 

* Rocksalt yellow bins

Clerk has had requests from residents to install more yellow bins, opposite Tai Newyddion and Penhelig roundabout. One resident has been informed that the Community Council has to request the bins and one councillor suggested another bin be put at Argoed Road. It was queried if the Community Council would have to pay for the bins, so the clerk will find out if there is a cost involved.

Action: Clerk to find out cost of installing more yellow bins.

* Allotment wall

It is hoped work will start on the wall mid- to end- February.

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/159/19.01.26

NP5/50/75V Panteidal Farm, Aberdyfi LL35 0RG

Replacement conservatory

No objections raised

47

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider increasing the price of ‘yearly’ motorhome parking in Neuadd Dyfi car park

CL/160/19.01.26

The clerk presented a report on increasing the price of motorhome parking. As the Council are increasing the daily rate, she recommended increasing the cost of motorhome parking to at least £174 to reflect the same increase. It was agreed to increase the charge to £174.

Action: Clerk to inform motorhome owners of increase

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To consider and adopt a grant awarding policy

CL/161/19.01.26

The clerk presented a draft grant awarding policy to the council and it was agreed to change the closing date to a rolling deadline rather than once a year, to allow the council to consider grants throughout the year. It was agreed to adopt the policy with this change.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to make the change 

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider grant applications and award grants

CL/162/19.01.26

7 applications were received and it was agreed to award grants of £100 to each of the Urdd Eisteddfod, Dail Dysynni, Meirionnydd Young Farmers, GISDA and Marie Curie

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr H. Williams

Action: Clerk to arrange payments

Cllr Owen reported that other grant requests may be received shortly, as the National Eisteddfod will be held in Powys in 2027 and Aberdyfi and Pennal have been included in the Eisteddfod area, meaning we are expected to contribute to the cost of the event. This may also require fundraising to help with the cost. Cllr Owen suggested the final cost could be approximately £400,000.

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To note new salary scale for the clerk

CL/163/19.01.26

The clerk reported that she finished and passed her Certificate in Local Council Administration (CiLCA) just before Christmas and as per her contact of employment, she moves up one point on the salary scale as a result.

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To discuss and decide what to do with the mobile kitchen long term

CL/164/19.01.26

The clerk reported that Des has agreed to the kitchen being stored in the Post Office lock-up temporarily until a decision is made. Cllrs Owen and Hewins will move it. It was agreed to research how much we could sell it or rent it for. 

Action: Cllr Hewins and Owen to move kitchen to Aberdyfi lock-up

Action: Clerk to research cost of selling or renting out kitchen

48

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider and approve purchase of new swing seats, chains and shackles

CL/165/19.01.26

It was agreed to accept the quote from Elevate Play and purchase new seats, chains and shackles for the swings. 

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Action: Clerk to arrange

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To discuss and agree arrangements for the official opening of the playground

CL/166/19.01.26

It was agreed to hold the official opening on Sunday 29^th March, 1-3pm and ask the oldest ‘children’ in the village, Flora and Bronwyn, to open the playground. It was agreed to ask Machynlleth Samba band and Professor Llusern, a children’s entertainer, to attend and to ask the AA&I for £350 to cover the cost of both. It was agreed to see if it is possible to get a couple of food concessions to attend, though these would need to be sited on the fire station compound, as Gwynedd Council does not allow trading in it’s car parks. It was agreed to ask the fire station if this might be possible and to use their building if the weather is bad. 

The clerk presented a draft design for a plaque and this was approved, with a change of date. 

It was agreed to hold an eisteddfod poetry competition with categories for Welsh adults, Welsh children, Welsh learners and English open, with a prize of £20 for each category. Cllr O’Neill offered to find 2 judges for the competition. It was agreed to ask the AA&I for funding for prizes.

Action: Clerk to arrange entertainment, ask Fire Service to use their compound and building, to contact Flora and Bronwyn and to book food concessions. Clerk to purchase plaque and install, and arrange competition. Clerk to write to AA&I for funding. 

Action: Cllr O’Neill to arrange judges.

AGENDA ITEM 16– Correspondence which requires a response from the Council

CL/167/19.01.26

* Green Council Biodiversity Solutions – request for meeting

It was agreed that this was from a business who would require payment. It was agreed to talk to Parc Eryri when we meet to discuss planting trees to see if they have any suggestions on how we can improve our biodiversity and make sure we are aligned with the Dyfi Biosphere. Possibly approach this company at a later date.

* Tir Canol – request for feedback.

Cllr O-Neill distributed survey forms, explained the aims and objectives of Tir Canol and received feedback about environmental concerns of councillors. 

* Aberystwyth University – Coastal resilience Collective meeting

12^th March 2026 in Conwy Business Centre, 10am – 4pm. 

* Resident request for more yellow bins in Aberdyfi

Discussed in an earlier item.

49

AGENDA ITEM 17 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council which has already been circulated to Councillors

CL/168/19.01.26

* Youth Justice Panel information

* Digital Public Services – digital planning survey

* Liz Saville-Roberts – notice of veterans event.

* One Voice Wales – training dates for January – March

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/169/19.01.26

None received

AGENDA ITEM 19 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/170/19.01.26

* Beach clean 1^st February

* Clwb Sgwrsio 2^nd February

* Info about how fireworks funded and thanks to volunteers & company

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next meeting

CL/171/19.01.26

Monday 16^th February

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.30pm

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