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21st March 2022

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Neuadd Dyfi on Monday 21st March 2022

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Gareth Jones

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

Public: Pat Hellen

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/165/21.03.22

Cllrs O’Neill, Owens, Tyrrell & Worman

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Public participation

CL/166/21.03.22

No public participation

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Chairman’s Announcements

CL/167/21.03.22

The Chair welcomed everyone to the last meeting of this council. He reminded the council that we are very fortunate here in Wales and we send our condolences and thoughts to everyone who is affected by the war in Ukraine. We hope the negotiations succeed and a peaceful resolution is found very soon.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of meeting 17th January 2022

CL/168/21.03.22

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Matters arising

CL/169/21.03.22

Page 56

M/117/20.12.21 Community Needs Survey

The clerk has received information about what is involved in a Place Plan and will put it on the agenda for a future meeting after May.

Action: Clerk to put on agenda after May

Page 57

M/51/(15.06.20) request for drinking water fountain.

The clerk has received an email from Barry Davies, suggesting we arrange it with the local harbour-master. She has spoken to the harbourmaster and he has no objections to siting the water-fountain where we want it. The Chair suggested he take it to the harbour users meeting next week to see if the project can be moved forward.

Action: Chair to discuss the project at the harbour-users meeting.

M/107/(16.11.20) Subway improvements

Cllr Bradbury-Willis presented a press release asking for commissions. The Clerk reported that she has had approval from the lighting department for the project. It was agreed to put the press -release out as soon as possible. 

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Action: Cllr Bradbury-Willis and the Clerk to advertise for submissions for commissions.

Action: Working group of Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Reynolds, Jones and Kelly to review submissions and make a recommendation to the full council at the May meeting.

M/56/(19.07.21) Parking problems on Seaview Terrace

Cllr Reynolds informed the council that a new traffic officer has been appointed and an assessment will be carried out soon. The Chair reported that he has been approached by residents of Maes Newydd, requesting residents parking there. 

M/97/(20.10.21) Tywyn Minor Injuries Unit

Cllr Reynolds informed the Council that she has a meeting next week with BCUHB. She has been told that there have been no applications for the GP posts. She has also been told that there is a possibility that the remaining dentist in Tywyn may be based in the hospital in future, as she doesn’t want to run her own business.

M/106/(15.11.21) Gwynedd Council Report

It was noted that the trailer is still outside Bryn Gwylan bungalows and this is now an issue that Adra needs to address. 

Page 58

M/127/(20.12.21) Items for consideration at future meetings – Tree by Neuadd Dyfi bus stop

Page 60

M/160/21.03.22 Wharf Development Project

The Clerk reported that the Welsh Government have approved the cost / benefit analysis and should have signed off the money for the project last week, but has been unable to verify this with Gwynedd Consultancy as she has been unable to contact them. 

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Treasurer’s Report

CL/170/21.03.22

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Jones

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To note new pay-scales agreed by NJC for 2021-2022

CL/171/21.03.22

The clerk presented the pay-scales agreed by the NJC at the beginning of March, which are to be implemented from 1st April 2021 and reported that the pay scales for 2022-2023, which will be implemented from 1st April 2022, has not yet been agreed so any increase will be backdated to 1st April this year. The Chair reported that the Clerk had an appraisal with himself and Cllr Kelly.

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AGENDA ITEM 8 – Gwynedd Council Report

CL/172/21.03.22

The Chair reported that there was a meeting of the full council last week. 

There was a long discussion on increasing council tax and it was agreed to increase it by 2.9%, equating to an extra 84p per week for a Band D property. The vote was 36 for and 30 against the increase. 

He reported that most staff have moved back to office working from 7th March. 

From September, all school meals will be free and travel between Aberdyfi, Tywyn etc. will be free for those attending Coleg Meirion Dwyfor. 

Gwynedd Council will have an extra £6.7million from the Welsh Government this year and they confirmed that they do not have any money in Russia, though they do occasionally invest money for short periods (6 -1 0 months) abroad elsewhere.

He met with the South Snowdonia National Access Forum and reported that there are a lot more people reported to be walking the coastal path and as a result, more money is going to be spent maintaining the furniture on the path. There are still problems with off-road vehicles and they are spending money on repairing the damage caused but there is now an increasing problem of off-road motorbikes causing a lot of damage.

AGENDA ITEM 9 – Planning

CL/173/21.03.22

NP5/50/109J Neuadd Dyfi, Aberdyfi LL35 0NR 

Alterations to roof 

Cllrs Kelly, Owen, Williams and Reynolds declared an interest in this agenda item.

No objections were raised.

NP5/50/L228A Hafn, Aberdyfi LL35 0LT 

Alterations, including installation of roof lights and replacement of windows and doors 

No objections were raised.

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To delegate powers to the Chair and Clerk until May meeting

CL/174/21.03.22

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider maintenance of Anne Roberts’ memorial

CL/175/21.03.22

The Clerk reported that this memorial is not maintained by the Trust. It was agreed to fund up to 50% of the cost.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

Action: Clerk to inform Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 12. – To consider purchase of Queen’s Jubilee Bench

CL/176/21.03.22

It was agreed to purchase a bench and position it in the lay-by opposite St. Peter’s Church.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Jones

Unanimously approved

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AGENDA ITEM 13 – Correspondence

CL/177/21.03.22

* Email proposing project group for railway station

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/178/21.03.22

  • Place Plan
  • Swift nesting boxes
  • Cycle path update
  • Group to raise awareness of cycling / walking in the local area
  • Wharf Development
  • Picnic Island Bridge
  • Sculpture for collecting plastic
  • Proposed group to improve railway station

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

CL/179/21.03.22

  • Elections

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Date of next meeting

CL/180/21.03.22

Monday 16th May 2022 at 7pm

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

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21st February 2022

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Neuadd Dyfi on Monday 21st February 2022

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Gareth Jones

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dai Owens

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

Public: Pat Hellen

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/147/21.02.22

Cllr Worman

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Public participation

CL/148/21.02.22

No public participation

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Chairman’s Announcements

CL/149/21.02.22

The Chair welcomed everyone to the first face to face meeting in almost 2 years. He extended his condolences on behalf of the council to Cllr Jones and his family on the death of his father last week. 

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of meeting 17th January 2022

CL/150/21.02.22

Proposed: Cllr William Seconded: Cllr Tyrrell

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Matters arising

CL/151/21.02.22

Page 51

M/117/20.12.21 Community Needs Survey

It was agreed that Cllr O’Neill would ask someone with knowledge of Place Plans to attend a council meeting to explain about what is involved

Action: Cllr O’Neill to source a speaker

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Page 52

M/51/(15.06.20) request for drinking water fountain.

The clerk is still waiting for a reply from Mr. Jones at Snowdonia National Park.

Action: Clerk to contact him again

M/107/(16.11.20) Subway improvements

The Clerk reported that the mural in Dolgellau at Ty Siamas cost approx. £1,500 and took 3 days. Cllr Bradbury-Willis presented some figures from an artist, which were roughly the same cost, though suggested the subway would take 6 days, so would probably cost in the region of £3,000.

The clerk reported that she still hasn’t heard from the lighting department with permission to go ahead with the project and reminded the council that this needs to be in place before publishing a press-release.

Action: Cllr Bradbury-Willis to put together a press release asking for commissions and send to the clerk.

Action: Clerk to contact lighting department again. 

Action: Clerk to put on agenda for next month

M/56/(19.07.21) Parking problems on Seaview Terrace

Cllr Reynolds informed the council that she is waiting to hear from the parking department of Gwynedd Council.

M/97/(20.10.21) Tywyn Minor Injuries Unit

Cllr Reynolds informed the Council that she has a meeting next week with BCUHB.

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M/106/(15.11.21) Gwynedd Council Report

The Clerk reported that Sean Wilkes of the highway department at Gwynedd Council found the owner of the trailer at Bryn Gwylan and asked them to move it. This has now been done and the trailer is now outside Bryn Gwylan bungalows.

M/108/(15.11.21) To consider purchasing extra waste bins

The Chair reported that Cllr Kelly, the clerk and himself met with David Williams and Caron Jones of Gwynedd Council last Thursday. It was agreed to move the large bins opposite the chemist to the area by the fire station and replace them with recycling and general waste bins. More recycling and general waste bins will be put along the side of the car park closest to the sea and the existing ones will have new stickers, making it clearer what should be put in there. The small bins in the car park will be replaced with ones with a flap on them to deter seagulls. The brown bins and mixed green and brown bins on the wharf gardens will be replaced with just green ones.

Cllr Owens asked if it would be possible to have the recycling bins by the sea turned round so they face the sea, as people currently have to walk into the car park in order to use the bins. Cllr Tyrrell asked if it would be possible to get stickers to put on brown bins stating for garden waste only.

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It was agreed to ask Steffan Jones to attend one of our meetings remotely.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council to request stickers and ask if possible to have bins facing the sea. 

M/42/(21.06.21) Purchase of bollards for Neuadd Dyfi car park

The bollards have been delivered and Clerk is waiting for Geri Davies to confirm a date when he will install them.

M/127/(20.12.21) Items for consideration at future meetings

  • Clerk has emailed Gwynedd Council asking for the hedge to be cut back between Outward Bound and Picnic Island, but has not heard back

Action: Clerk to contact network Rail

  • Clerk emailed Gwynedd Council asking for their plans for the large tree at the bus stop by the Neuadd Dyfi, as several motorhome owners have moved their vehicles from under the tree as they are concerned about the tree falling on their vehicles. 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council again

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Treasurer’s Report

CL/152/21.02.22

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

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Gwynedd Council Report

CL/153/21.02.22

The Chair reported that the rail line to Pwllheli will be closed again this year between September and December to allow metalwork repairs to be carried out on Barmouth bridge. The work so far has cost £18 million and the metalwork is estimated to cost £12 million. 

The Chair reported that next week a contractor will be working in the village to cut back hedges and growth that is obstructing paths and roads at various points round the village. 

A question was raised about the safety of the tree by the Neuadd Dyfi bus stop. The clerk has already reported it to Gwynedd Council on several occasions but has not had any response.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd again

It was reported that a drain on Balkan Hill is blocked, causing flooding on the road. It has already been reported to Gwynedd Council, but no response has been forthcoming.

Action: Clerk to report it to Gwynedd Council again

It was noted that the ‘Don’t Feed the seagulls’ signs are old and faded and it was agreed to ask for Gwynedd Council to replace them.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 8 – Planning

CL/154/21.02.22

NP5/50/740 Morwel, Aberdyfi LL35 0NT

Removal of chimney stack, installation of rooflights and dormers & construction of building with terrace above terrace

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NP5/50/631A 15 Treflan, Aberdyfi LL35 0PN

Demolish garage and construction of extension including terrace

No objections were raised to either application

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider maintenance of Anne Roberts’ memorial

CL/155/21.02.22

It was agreed to find out more about this memorial before committing to spending money on it. It was suggested it might be maintained by the Richard Roberts Trust.

Action: Clerk to find out more about the memorial and if it is maintained by the Trust.

Action: Clerk to put on agenda for next month

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To adopt NJC agreement on clerk’s pay & conditions

CL/156/21.02.22

It was agreed to adopt the agreement.

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

Unanimously approved

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider purchase of storage container

CL/157/21.02.22

Cllr Williams suggested that the amount of paperwork and equipment needing to be stored be checked before a container is bought as it may be that a container is no longer needed.

Action: Clerk to ask One Voice Wales how long paperwork needs to be kept

Action: Clerk to find out exactly how much equipment needs to be stored and find out from Mr. George what his plans are for the storage unit where the kitchen is currently kept.

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss Queen’s Jubilee celebrations

CL/158/21.02.22

Cllr Jones informed the council that the Fire service will create a beacon for the Thursday evening and Cllr Kelly informed the council that the AA&I will proved fireworks on the Saturday night. As there are a lot of trees already being planted in the village, it was agreed to buy a Queen’s Green Canopy A4 plaque at a cost of £155 + p&p and Cllr Bradbury-Willis offered to research a biodiverse specimen tree. 

The clerk informed the council that the yacht club plan to have a sail-past around high water on the Sunday.

It was agreed to put an item in Rushlight offering support to any groups in the village wanting to organise events. 

Action: Cllr Bradbury-Willis to research a specimen tree

Action: Clerk to add item to Rushlight and write to member of the public who wrote to the council with suggestions of events, offering support.

Action: Clerk to order plaque

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider purchase of new benches and planters for the wharf gardens

CL/159/21.02.22

It was agreed to buy 1 planter to see if it is suitable. It was agreed for Cllr Tyrrell and the clerk to liaise about repairing the existing benches and proposing a way forward with

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benches for the wharf area. 

Action: Clerk to buy a single planter

Action: Clerk and Cllr Tyrrell to propose a way forward for benches on the wharf

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Wharf development project

CL/160/21.02.22

The clerk had an email from Gwynedd Consultancy stating that they have been asked to update the Economic Case of the project before the Welsh assembly will sign off the money for the project. They are hoping it will be finalised next week and the contractor appointed then.

AGENDA ITEM 15 – Correspondence

CL/161/21.02.22

* Playground concerns

It was agreed to put an item in Rushlight reiterating that the playground is inspected every year and is deemed safe by RoSPA, with a link to the report.

* Tree planting round the golf club car park and the recreation ground will take place on Thursday 24th at 9.45am

*Neil Storkey is going to hire the kitchen for 2 events this year at a cost of £500 per event.

* There is a possible shortfall of £10,000 on Picnic Island Bridge and it was agreed that the council and AA&I will cover this if required.

* There is still a large hole in bank by development at the Penhelig. Clerk asked to request again that it is filled with soil and not hard core.

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/162/21.02.22

  • Subway improvements
  • Purchase of container
  • Cycle path update

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

CL/163/21.02.22

  • Community lunches
  • Messy church
  • Pop-up rock shop
  • Community Projects group update
  • Playground 
  • Jubilee celebrations
  • Tree planting

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Date of next meeting

CL/164/21.02.22

Monday 21st March 2022 at 7pm

There being no further business the meeting was closed by the Chair at 9.35pm

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17th January 2022

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held virtually via teleconferencing on Monday 17th January 2022

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dai Owens

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

Cllr Simon Worman

Public: Pat Hellen

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/130/17.01.22

Cllr Jones, Cllr Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chairman’s Announcements

CL/131/17.01.22

The Chair welcomed everyone and noted that there have been quite a few people here on holiday now which is welcome for the village.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To elect a Vice-Chair

CL/132/17.01.22

Cllr Brain Kelly was voted in unanimously as Vice-Chair

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of meeting 20th December 2021

CL/133/17.01.22

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Matters arising

CL/134/17.01.22

Page 46

M/117/20.12.21 Community Needs Survey

It was agreed that a Place Plan is the logical way forward after the Community Needs Survey. It was agreed for the Clerk and Cllr O’Neill to form a working group with Des George to research what creating a Place Plan for Aberdyfi would involve and report back to the Council on their findings. 

Action: Clerk and Cllr O’Neill to meet with Mr. George

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M/51/(15.06.20) request for drinking water fountain.

The clerk reported that she has emailed again but has not heard back from either Snowdonia National Park or Gwynedd Council.

Action: Clerk to contact them again

Page 47

M/107/(16.11.20) Subway improvements

The Clerk reported that the Streetworks department have emailed, saying that the highways department responsible for the maintenance of the subway have no objections to the project, but ask for sight of the proposed artwork beforehand to approve it’s suitability. Before we can proceed, we have to also have approval from the lighting department of Gwynedd Council and are awaiting their decision. 

It was agreed to seek information from local artists about what such a project might cost and set a budget using this information. It was suggested that once we have approval from the lighting department, local artists and art groups be invited to submit proposals for the work.

Action: Cllr Bradbury-Willis and Clerk to contact local artists to find out how much this sort of project might cost. Clerk to look back over minutes to see if there is any information available there.

M/166/(15.03.21) Football goalposts

Have now been installed and have been well-used already, with very positive feedback from locals.

M/139/(18.02.21) Crack in sea wall

Chair has spoken to Gwynedd Consultancy who do not yet have a date for repairing the crack. They confirmed that it will be highways that will be repairing the hole in the wall.

M/56/(19.07.21) Parking problems on Seaview Terrace

It was pointed out that the parking problems were highlighted in part of the community needs survey, but it was agreed that it is resident’s responsibility to apply for resident parking areas in the village. 

Action: Chair to speak to parking department of Gwynedd Council 

M/97/(20.10.21) Tywyn Minor Injuries Unit

Cllr Reynolds informed the Council that this month’s meeting was cancelled and there are currently 1000 vacancies in Betsy Cadwalader Health Board. It was agreed to write to BCUHB asking that Tywyn MIU is reinstated ASAP, before the main season. Cllr Bradbury-Willis reminded the council that anyone who needs attention can be seen at Dovey valley Health, they need to register as a temporary resident to be seen. 

Cllr Reynolds informed the council that it is hopeful that a new dentist will be found for Tywyn. 

Action: Clerk to write to BCUHB asking for Tywyn MIU to be opened as soon as possible. 

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M/106/(15.11.21) Gwynedd Council Report

The Clerk has reported the trailer at BrynGwylan to Gwynedd Council, as has Cllr. Bradbury-Willis.

M/108/(15.11.21) To consider purchasing extra waste bins

The clerk has emailed Steffan Jones requesting a meeting as soon as possible, but has not heard back. 

Action: Clerk to contact Mr. Jones again

Page 49

M/122/(20.12.21) Planning

NP5/50/L308D Coast Deli Dining

The Chair reported that he has had various residents asking what can be done about the noise and smell outside and emanating from Coast Deli in recent months and he has been told that the environmental health department will be visiting the premises soon. He has been informed that Gwynedd Council intend to object to the planning application. The Chair clarified that these issues were only in relation to Coast Deli Dining and not Coast2Go.

Sheds being let out on AirBnB

There is concern that these are still being advertised but no planning application has been lodged.

Action: Clerk to contact Snowdonia National Park

M/42/(21.06.21) Purchase of bollards for Neuadd Dyfi car park

The Clerk has ordered the bollards and Geri Davies has confirmed he will install them.

M/124/(20.12.21) Purchase of hybrid meeting equipment

Clerk has ordered this equipment

M/127/(20.12.21) Items for consideration at future meetings

  • Clerk has emailed Gwynedd Council asking for the hedge to be cut back between Outward Bound and Picnic Island, but has not heard back

Action: Clerk to contact network Rail

  • Clerk emailed Gwynedd Council asking for their plans for the large tree at the bus stop by the Neuadd Dyfi, as several motorhome owners have moved their vehicles from under the tree as they are concerned about the tree falling on their vehicles. 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council again

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Treasurer’s Report

CL/135/17.01.22

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Williams

Unanimously agreed

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AGENDA ITEM 7 – Gwynedd Council Report

CL/136/17.01.22

The Chair reported that the dip in the road where the badger set caused subsidence now has signs warning of uneven surface and will be repaired in due course, though no date has been set yet.

He reported that the extra funding for the wharf development has been confirmed and that the contractors have now been formally appointed.

He reported that Picnic Island bridge is still due to be installed in April / May this year. 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – Planning

CL/137/17.01.22

No planning applications have been received to date

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider grant applications

CL/138/17.01.22

It was agreed to give £75 to the Air Ambulance, Dail Dysynni and Urdd Eisteddfod.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Action: Clerk to transfer funds to the three charities

The clerk informed the council that the donation to the Neuadd Dyfi for 2021 will be half of the income from the machine in the Neuadd Dyfi car park, plus £2,500, as agreed previously. This gives a total of £6,425 / 2 = £3,212.50 + £2,500 = £5,712.50.

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To agree precept for 2022/ 2023

CL/139/17.01.22

The clerk informed the council that inflation for the year 2021 was 4.6% and reminded councillors that last year the council raised the precept by the inflation rate at the time of 1.5%. It was agreed to raise the precept by 3%, giving a total of £37,348 x 3% = £38,468. This equates to band D properties of £38,468 / 1095.65 = £35.11, a drop of £2.99 due to the increase in tax base this year.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Unanimously approved

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss council self-assessment toolkit 

CL/140/17.01.22

The Chair reported that using the toolkit was a useful exercise and confirmed that the Council is running as it should, though highlighted a few things, such as some training may be needed.The Clerk reported that the full toolkit will be available from May onwards and intends to go through the rest of it later in the year, as time allows. It was agreed to purchase a lockable cabinet for the council office.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Action: clerk to report back to the Welsh Government and One Voice Wales on the use of the toolkit

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AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider cutting a path between the cemetery and the gas works

CL/141/17.01.22

Aled’s father has cut a path in the past and has offered to do it again for £60. It was greed unanimously to ask him to continue.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider how to communicate more effectively with the community

CL/142/17.01.22

It was agreed to leave this discussion until it comes up as part of the self-assessment toolkit later in the year.

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Correspondence

CL/143/17.01.22

Letter received from Coast Deli Dining

Action: Clerk to reply with details outlined in Agenda Item 5 above.

AGENDA ITEM 15 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/144/17.01.22

  • Purchase of container
  • Purchase of new benches and planters for the wharf gardens
  • Adoption of the NALC guidelines for clerk’s pay and conditions
  • Wharf development project
  • Subway project
  • Queen’s Jubilee celebrations

AGENDA ITEM 13 – Items for release / Rushlight / website / Facebook

CL/145/17.01.22

  • Institute subscriptions due
  • British Legion Poppy Appeal results
  • Football posts
  • Wharf development project

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Date of next meeting

CL/146/17.01.22

Monday 21st February 2022 at 7pm

There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.55pm

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20th December 2021

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held virtually via teleconferencing on Monday 20th December 2021

Present:          Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:     Cllr Gareth Jones

                        Cllr Brian Kelly

                        Cllr Catrin O’Neill

                        Cllr Dai Owens

                        Cllr Megan Reynolds

                        Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Public:             Deio Jones

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/115/20.12.21

Cllr Bradbury-Willis, Cllr Williams, Cllr Worman

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chairman’s Announcements

CL/116/20.12.21

The Chair welcomed everyone and welcomed Deio Jones to the meeting. He reported that the village has been quiet recently though is probably going to get much busier over the festive period.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Presentation on the Community Needs Survey by Deio Jones

CL/117/20.12.21

Deio Jones from Resources For Change did a short presentation on the Community Needs Survey, highlighting some of the results. He reported that many councils go on to use this type of survey as the basis for creating a Community Place Plan and encouraged the council to look at Newtown Place Plan as an example. Cllr O’Neill reported that there is funding available to create one and suggested it would be a good idea for either the Community Council or the Community Projects group to undertake. It was agreed to find out more information about what creating a Place Plan entails.

Action: Clerk to research the process of creating a Place Plan.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of meeting 15th November 2021

CL/118/20.12.21

Proposed: Cllr Jones   Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Matters arising

CL/119/20.12.21

Page 40

M/51/(15.06.20) request for drinking water fountain.

The clerk reported that she has not yet heard back from either Snowdonia National Park and 

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Gwynedd Council 

Action: Clerk to contact Mr. Jones and Barry Davies again at the beginning of next year

M/107/(16.11.20) Subway improvements

The Clerk reported that the Streetworks department have emailed, saying they will look into whether it is possible for the project could go ahead if Community Council agree to take on the responsibility for maintaining the walls while Gwynedd Council retains responsibility for the lighting and electrics and they will let her know their decision in due course.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council Streetworks team again.

Page 41

M/166/(15.03.21) Football goalposts

There was a delay in the installation and they are now due to be installed this week and work on the allotment retaining walls is due to start in mid-late January.

M/139/(18.02.21) Crack in sea wall

It was asked if the work on this could be done at the same time as the work to repair the wall that has been damaged recently by a car. The Chair reported that he has been told that Gwynedd Council said they will be repairing this in the next few months but will contact them again.

Action: Chair to contact Gwynedd Consultancy

Page 41

M/56/(19.07.21) Parking problems on Seaview Terrace

It was agreed that it was not for the Community Council to apply for residents parking on Seaview Terrace but for the residents themselves to apply for it. 

Page 42

M/97/(20.10.21) Tywyn Minor Injuries Unit

Cllr Reynolds informed the Council that three nurses are training in A & E work, so hopefully the MIU will open again soon.

Page 43

M/106/(15.11.21) Gwynedd Council Report

It was reported that the trailer at Bryn Gwylan is still blocking parking bays. 

Action: Chair and Clerk to contact Adra 

M/108/(15.11.21) To consider purchasing extra waste bins

The clerk reported that she has not had a date to meet with the Steffan Jones. It was suggested that perhaps larger bins instead of more bins might be good. Cllr Tyrrell also noted that many tourists do not know that the brown bins are only for garden waste. The Chair informed the council that the bins at Nantiesin have been used for inappropriate rubbish tipping and since September there have been 3 televisions, 2 beds and 4 mattresses put into those bins. 

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Action: Clerk to contact Mr. Jones again and arrange a meeting and suggest larger bins as well as more bins, at that meeting. Clerk to inform Cllr Tyrrell of the meeting date.

Action: Clerk to write to all letting agents next year reiterating that they must not put household large goods in public bins.

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Treasurer’s Report

CL/120/20.12.21

Proposed: Cllr Kelly                Seconded: Cllr Tyrrell

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Gwynedd Council Report

CL/121/20.12.21

The Chair reported on a meeting that was held at the wharf with Gwynedd Council, TMS Maritime and various stakeholders present. The contract hasn’t yet been signed as there is a shortfall in funding so they are currently waiting for the extra funding to be confirmed. It is hoped the project will start in March and the contractors gave a timetable of 34 weeks to complete the project. It will cause disruption in the village, but the work needs to be done as soon as possible in case prices increase again or anything unforeseen happens. The contractors plan to hold meetings early next year with residents and businesses in the village. 

It was requested that the contractors might be able to dig out the cannon that is embedded at the bottom of Church Bay slipway while they are doing the work on the wharf wall, to allow it to then be kept and possibly restored. 

Action: Clerk to talk to contractors about this possibility

AGENDA ITEM 8 – Planning

CL/122/20.12.21

NP5/50/L145G 12 Seaview Terrace, Aberdyfi LL35 0EF Installation of balcony railings to create balcony area (re-submission) 

No objections raised

NP5/50/27F The Old Coach House, Balkan Hill, LL35 0NH 

Alterations to first floor windows, remove extrenal steps and install glass balustrade 

No objections raised

NP5/ NP5/50/530B 14 Maes Newydd, Aberdyfi, LL35 0PD 

Demolish conservatory and construct 2 storey extension 

No objections raised

NP5/50/L228 Hafn, Terrace Road, Aberdyfi, LL35 0LT 

Installation of roof lights and rear dormer 

It was noted that the gates open onto the road and this could cause an issue. 

Action: Clerk to inform SNPA 

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NP5/50/L134E Coast to Go, 9 Glandyfi Terrace, Aberdyfi, LL35 0EB 

Removal of condition 2 of planning consent to allow sale of hot food takeaway 

It was noted that this is next door to an existing takeaway business and the menus overlap.

Action: Clerk to inform SNPA

NP5/50/L308D Coast Deli Dining, 7 Seaview Terrace, Aberdyfi, LL35 0EE 

Removal of condition 2 of planning consent to allow sale of hot food takeaway 

It was agreed not to support this application due to exisiting problems and issues that have not been resolved 

            Action: Clerk to inform SNPA

The Clerk reported that Snowdonia National Park have been in contact with the owners of the sheds being let on AirBnB and have asked them to submit a planning application, but she hasn’t heard anything more about it yet.

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider purchase of bollards for the Neuadd Dyfi car park

CL/123/20.12.21

It was agreed to buy 5 bollards with space for a padlock at the top, at a price of £200 each. It was agreed that motorhome owners should provide their own padlocks with a spare key held at the Council office. It was agreed to ask Geri Davies to install the bollards.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly                            Seconded: Cllr Tyrrell

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To consider purchase of equipment for hybrid meetings

CL/124/20.12.21

It was agreed to buy the equipment recommended by the clerk, including any sundries required.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill                         Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Unanimously approved

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider keeping toilets by the Neuadd Dyfi open all year

CL/125/20.12.21

The clerk had confirmation from Amanda Murray that it will cost the council another £2,000 to keep the toilets open all year. It was agreed to reply accepting this proposal, and to ask the AA&I to cover the cost.

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell                          Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

Unanimously approved

Action: Clerk to reply to Amanda Murray 

Action: Clerk to provide all figures from the past few years to the Chair to inform his forthcoming meeting with Amanda Murray

AGENDA ITEM 12 – Correspondence

CL/126/20.12.21        

  • Day on the Quay

It was agreed to cancel this event

49

  • Time & Tide Bell

The clerk reported that the clapper had been left outside the harbourmaster’s office so she has sent photos to the artist and is waiting for his response about what will happen next.

  • Aberdyfi Community Projects

Cllr O’Neill gave an update on the company and their project to try to buy the building that houses the Post Office, garage etc. 

  • Work happening at the institute in January

The clerk reported that major electrical work will be happening at the institute in January so she may work different hours or from home while this work takes place.

  • New tenant at the Institute

The clerk reported that a new tenant has taken over the office below the council office and will be in place from January.

  • New pharmacist in the village

The clerk reported that the pharmacy has now officially changed hands and the new pharmacist in now in place. 

Action: Clerk to write to the pharmacist, welcoming him to the village

  • Railings in car park

Cllr O’Neill reported that at a recent Unllais meeting, she asked Dafydd Gibbard, CEO of Gwynedd Council, about the railings in the main car park and he said he will look into the problems with the car park.

AGENDA ITEM 13 – Items for consideration at future meetings / urgent business

CL/127/20.12.21

  • Container
  • Potential cutting of path between cemetery and Gas Works.
  • Cutting hedge between OB and Picnic Island
  • Sand build up in village already 
  • Precept
  • How can we communicate better with the community
  • Large tree by the Neuadd Dyfi

AGENDA ITEM 13 – Items for release / Rushlight / website / Facebook

CL/113/15.11.21

  • Thanks to volunteers for village planting and tree / hedge planting 
  • Aberdyfi Community Projects

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Date of next meeting

CL/114/15.11.21

Monday 17th January 2022 at 7pm

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9:25pm

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15th November 2021

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held virtually via teleconferencing on Monday 15th November 2021

Present:          Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:     Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

                        Cllr Gareth Jones

                        Cllr Catrin O’Neill

                        Cllr Megan Reynolds

                        Cllr Bob Tyrrell

                        Cllr Dave Williams

                        Cllr Simon Worman

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/101/15.11.21

Cllr Kelly, Cllr Owens

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chairman’s Announcements

CL/102/15.11.21

The Chair reported that the Remembrance Sunday events were very successful with many people in attendance. Once again the weather was kind and it was dry and calm. The Council agreed that David and Gay Richardson should be thanked for all their hard work in making the events so successful in a Covid-safe manner. 

Action: Clerk to thank David and Gay Richardson.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of meeting 20th October 2021

CL/103/15.11.21

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill             Seconded: Cllr Worman

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/104/15.11.21

Page 34

M/51/(15.06.20) request for drinking water fountain.

It was agreed that the preferred site for the fountain is outside the Tourist Information Centre and to seek a site meeting with Snowdonia National Park to confirm it’s position, then go back to Gwynedd Council with our final proposal.

Action: Clerk to contact Mr. Jones

Page 35

M/107/(16.11.20) Subway improvements

The Clerk reported that the Streetworks department have informed her that it would not be possible to have artwork in the subway, due to ongoing maintenance and upkeep required.

40

The Clerk replied to them, asking if the project could go ahead if Community Council agreed to take on this responsibility, but has not heard back. It was agreed to contact them again, reiterating our willingness to take on the upkeep of the subway, if they keep responsibility for the lighting and electrics.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council Streetworks team again.

M/166/(15.03.21) Football goalposts

These are due to be installed this week.

M/25/(17.05.21) Bus shelter

Has been installed

M/139/(18.02.21) Crack in sea wall

The Chair reported that he has been told that Gwynedd Council will be repairing this in the next few months.

M/42/(21.06.21) Bollards in Neuadd Dyfi car park

It was agreed that these needed to be stainless steel with padlock locking, so further research is needed before a decision can be made. It was also agreed to check the number of posts that need replacing now and possibly just replacing bollards as and when required.

Action: Chair and Clerk to meet and discuss which bollards need replacing now and report to next meeting

Action: Clerk to research stainless steel bollards with padlocks.

Page 36

M/56/(19.07.21) Parking problems on Seaview Terrace

Clerk has had an email outlining the process of applying for residents-only parking but the email was missing an attachment so the clerk asked for the attachment to also be sent. She is still waiting for this.

Action: Clerk to contact the parking department again to ask for the attachment.

M/76/(20.09.21) EV charging points

The Chair reported that this was discussed at the meeting with Gwynedd Council this morning and reported that they haven’t made a decision yet where they plan to install chargers. 

Page 37

M/91/(20.10.21) Community Needs Survey

The Clerk reported that the survey has now been translated and reminded the Council that they agreed at the last meeting to pay for this service, which is approximately £800. The Clerk will distribute it as soon as it is received and will arrange for it to be hosted on the Council website. She will also ask Deio Jones, the author to attend our December meeting to give a short presentation on the report.

Action: Clerk to distribute the survey report and arrange hosting on the website

Action: Clerk to invite Deio Jones to December Council meeting

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Page 38

M/92/(20.10.21) Village Toilets

It was agreed that the toilets are not being maintained as the Council would like but Gwynedd Council are not interested in improving these facilities. The Clerk has asked Scrubadub to deep clean them once now and then again before the main season begins at Easter. It was agreed to keep a tally of the numbers on the counters in order to have evidence if / when something is done with the toilets. The Chair reported that many other Councils have reported similar and worse problems than those experienced in Aberdyfi and Gwynedd Council have agreed to look into the situation.

Cllr Bradbury-Willis asked if the Council should consider paying to have the toilets by the Neuadd Dyfi open during the winter though acknowledged it is probably too late to do it this year, but perhaps something that should be considered for next year. 

Action: Clerk to keep reading the counters at the beginning of the month.

Action: Clerk to provide counter figures at the next meeting.

Action: Clerk to check when the toilets by the Neuadd Dyfi will be closed and to ask how much it might cost to keep them open during the winter.

Page 39 

M/97/(20.10.21) Tywyn Minor Injuries Unit

Cllr Reynolds informed the Council that a meeting was due to be held recently, as they are now supposed to be happened every month, but the most recent one was cancelled due to illness. She will report when she has more information.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s Report

CL/105/15.11.21

Proposed: Cllr Williams                      Seconded: Cllr Jones

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council Report

CL/106/15.11.21

Harbour Users meeting last week and the harbour took more money than normal this year, so is in surplus unusually. A contractor has been appointed for the Harbour Wall Project is TMS Maritime Ltd, based in Cornwall and who have done many projects like this in the past, according to their website. The work is due to commence in February for possibly 4 or 5 month, but no other details are available yet. This work will have a huge impact on the village. The contractors will come to the village on 30th November for a meeting with interested parties, eg. Community Council, RNLI, Yacht Club, Outward Bound etc. and the Chair will also ask them to attend an open meeting sometime in December to enable the public to attend and ask any questions they might have. 

The Chair also informed the Council that the contractors will need storage space for portacabins, machinery etc. and he has been informed that this will be in the main car park, which will cause even more problems for the village.

All Councillors agreed that it is imperative that the work is done as soon as possible, despite the problems it will cause.

Action: Chair and Clerk to attend the meeting on 30th November and organise an open meeting in December. 

Action: Clerk to distribute plans to the councillors

42

Gwynedd Council Tourism meeting this morning. The Chair reported that it was estimated that there has been an increase in motorhomes visiting Gwynedd this year of 70%, with associated access and waste problems. Wild camping has also caused major problems in the National Park this year with rubbish etc. It was also reported that many people didn’t follow the Covid Rules that the Welsh Gov has put in place. One positive outcome has been that most attractions in Gwynedd saw a marked increase of 50% in visitor number this year. There was a shortage of accommodation this year, partly due to visitor numbers and partly due to hotels etc. being understaffed and some accommodation had to close part of each week due to no staff being available. There will be another meeting in a month to try to solve some of the problems faced by communities this year.

One issue has been that there have been many events happening in the National park that local and District Councils have been unaware of. One example is this last weekend in Aberdyfi, where a running event was held. The Chair had complaints this weekend from various farmers whose land the people were running through, as they were climbing gates marked ‘private’ and not following footpaths. The Clerk had no notification of the event either. It was agreed to write to the organisers, asking for information to be given to the Council before any future events.

Action: Clerk to contact the organisers

Cllr Jones informed the council about a large number of mountain bikes that came through the village recently and the Chair reported on groups going gorge-walking without permission and no-one knows who is organising these events. 

It was reported that there has been a trailer blocking parking bays at BrynGwylan for many months and the whole area looks a mess. It was agreed to complain to Adra regularly about this issue.

Action: Chair to contact Adra and Clerk to email Adra about this issue.

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/107/15.11.21

No applications were received this month

The Clerk reported that Snowdonia National Park have been in contact with the owners of the sheds being let on AirBnB and have asked them to submit a planning application.

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To consider purchasing extra waste bins for the village

CL/108/15.11.21

The Clerk reported that she emailed Steffan Jones asking how much it would cost to have extra bins in the village and he replied suggesting a meeting on site about waste and recycling in the village. The Clerk has agreed to this and is waiting on a date.

Action: Clerk and Chair to meet with Steffan Jones and report back

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider purchase of bollards for the Neuadd Dyfi car park

CL/109/15.11.21

Has been covered earlier in the meeting

43

AGENDA ITEM 10– To consider and approve budget for 2022/23

CL/110/15.11.21

Proposed: Cllr Owen                          Seconded: Cllr Tyrrell

Unanimously approved

AGENDA ITEM 11 – Correspondence

CL/111/15.11.21        

  • Gwynedd Council Local Development Plan

The Councillors did not have any comments on the plan

  • Snowdonia National Park Conservation Areas Project

The Park asked if it would be possible to attend one of the Council meetings to discuss this project.

Action: Clerk to give them dates of meetings

  • Fairbourne flood survey report

It was agreed to write to them explaining the problems in Aberdyfi on the wharf area, golf course, railway and sea wall. 

Action: Clerk to write to Arthog Community Council

  • Tree surgeons have cut down the trees in the playing field and new trees will be planted along the side of the playing field, the side of the recreation ground and by the golf-club car park. The hedge in the Neuadd Dyfi car park will also be extended to the full length of the fence.

AGENDA ITEM 12 – Items for consideration at future meetings / urgent business

CL/112/15.11.21

The Clerk asked the Council to approve the cost of attending a conference on Wednesday in relation to the pilot project of the Council Toolkit, of £45+VAT. It was unanimously agreed to fund this for the Clerk.

  • Community Needs Survey
  • Equipment for hybrid meetings
  • Bollards 
  • Report from meeting with Steffan Jones
  • Container
  • Potential cutting of path between cemetery and Gas Works.
  • Harbour project
  • Cutting hedge between OB and Picnic Island
  • Sand build up in village already 

AGENDA ITEM 13 – Items for release / Rushlight / website / Facebook

CL/113/15.11.21

  • RNLI Operations Manager
  • Reminder Rushlight on website and Facebook
  • Council need to be made aware of any activities in the village
  • Christmas Tree and Fireworks.
  • Advent windows

44

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Date of next meeting

CL/114/15.11.21

Monday 20th December 2021 at 7pm

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9:10pm

18th October 2021

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held virtually via teleconferencing on Monday 18th October 2021

Present:          Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:     Cllr Megan Reynolds

                         Cllr Dave Williams

                         Cllr Simon Worman

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/82/20.10.21

Cllr Bradbury-Willis, Cllr Jones, Cllr Kelly, Cllr O’Neill, Cllr Owens, , Cllr Tyrrell

As the meeting was inquorate, it was rescheduled to Wednesday 20th October at 7pm.

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held virtually via teleconferencing on Wednesday 20th October 2021

Present:          Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:     Cllr Brian Kelly

                        Cllr Catrin O’Neill

                        Cllr Dai Owens

                        Cllr Megan Reynolds

                        Cllr Dave Williams

                        Cllr Simon Worman

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/83/20.10.21

Cllr Bradbury-Willis, Cllr Jones, Cllr Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chairman’s Announcements

CL/84/20.10.21

The Chair confirmed that this meeting was being held as the original council meeting on the 18th was inquorate.  He noted that the work has now finished at Nyth Robin but the road closure last week caused significant problems to those who needed to go towards Machynlleth from Aberdyfi. He also noted that there are currently four sets of traffic lights between Aberdyfi and Tywyn.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of meeting 20th September 2021

CL/85/20.10.21

Proposed: Cllr Kelly                Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/86/20.10.21

Page 26

M/51/(15.06.20) request for drinking water fountain.

Clerk has had a reply from Barry Davies, suggesting the drinking water fountain be placed under the canopy between the doors to the two public toilets and asking who would be responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of the fountain, also suggesting not to have a mouth fountain, instead one just to fill bottles, as this would present less of a health hazard.

It was agreed that the Community Council will take responsibility for the cleaning and maintenance and not to have a mouth fountain. It was agreed to re-visit the site and consider the location at the next meeting in November.

Action: Councillors to visit site before next meeting and Clerk to put on November agenda

34

M/107/(16.11.20) Subway improvements

Clerk hasn’t heard back from the streetworks department.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council streetworks department again.

M/166/(15.03.21) Football goalposts

Barry Griffiths will install the football posts as soon as possible.

M/25/(17.05.21) Bus shelter

Clerk has been told the bus shelter will be installed in the next day or two.

M/139/(18.02.21) Crack in sea wall

Clerk reported that the responsibility for the crack below the shelter on Terrace Road is in dispute between Coastal Defence department and Highways department of Gwynedd Council. Cllr Worman pointed out that there is an erosion hole in the road in that area which could potentially have been caused by this crack. 

M/150/(15.02.21) CCTV

Cllr Kelly reported that the electrician is not responding to emails and attempts to contact him, so he is meeting with another electrician this week to discuss the work. Cllr Worman asked if responsibility for GDPR rests with the electrician or the owners / operators and contractors installing the cameras need a special licence for GDPR issues. It was unclear, although Cllr Kelly said it was the owners / operators. Cllr Worman will investigate and confirm if this is the case.

Action: Cllr Kelly to meet with the electrician this week. 

Action: Cllr Worman to clarify the GDPR situation.

Page 28

M/28/(17.05.21) Litter and bin problems

It was agreed there are still problems with litter in the village and to ask the person responsible for litter attend one of our meetings.

It was reported that there are still businesses who have already been reported to Gwynedd Council, that are still telling their customers to put their rubbish in the bins on the car park.

Action: Clerk to chase up enforcement team 

Action: Council to consider purchasing more bins before the season next year.

Action: Clerk to ask Gwynedd Council to check if Gwynedd Council requires businesses to provide proof that their rubbish is being collected before exemption is approved.

Action: Chair to ask Steffan at Gwynedd Council to attend one of our meetings

Page 20

M/42/(21.06.21) Correspondence

Bollards in Neuadd Dyfi car park

Clerk is still trying to source more robust bollards

Action: Clerk to source more robust bollards

35

Page 28

M/56/(19.07.21) Parking problems on Seaview Terrace

Clerk has phoned and left messages for the parking department twice asking how we progress getting resident-only parking in the village but has not heard back. 

Action: Clerk to contact the parking department again and copy in CEO of Gwynedd Council

Page 30

M/76/(20.09.21) To discuss EV charging points in the village

The Chair reported that Gwynedd Council have not yet reached a decision and the Clerk reported that the consultation is still live on their website.

Action: Chair to contact Gwynedd again

Page 32

M/78/(20.09.21) Picnic Island bridge

The Chair reported that the bridge work is still progressing well but Gwynedd Consultancy are being very slow in giving their permission for works to go ahead and Al Crisp told the Chair it is hoped that the bridge will be within budget and will be installed March / April next year. 

Action: Clerk to put in Rushlight

Action: Chair to impress on Gwynedd Council and Network Rail to work together positively for a quick installation.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s Report

CL/87/20.10.21

Proposed: Cllr Williams                      Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

It was noted that the finance committee needs to meet before the next council meeting to prepare the budget for next year.

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council Report

CL/88/20.10.21

The Chair reported that there was a meeting of the full council on 7th October and Gwynedd Council are trying to encourage younger people to apply for the elections in May and they will be losing 6 Councillors in the May elections, going down from 75 to 69 councillors.

Gwynedd Council have spent over £130k on equipment for hybrid meetings and it is hoped that many of their meetings will be hybrid going forward.

The Chair has received a request for the Council and the AA&I to support a FLAG project to develop the compound opposite the Trefeddian Hotel that is used by the fishermen. It is hoped to install a 40ft square hard standing with water and electricity. FLAG are willing to provide 62% of the cost, but are asking for support of up to £8k from the Council and AA&I. It was agreed to support the project and decide the split between the Council and AA&I once final costs are known.

Cllr Williams pointed out that the project needs to be mindful of the people who live next door to the compound as there may be some smell from the fisherman’s work.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill                         Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to contact FLAG 

36

The Chair reported that he had a meeting on Monday about home carers in Tywyn, as Gwynedd Council has recently taken over all the home caring for Tywyn as a pilot project. It was reported that the pilot has worked extremely well, with 35 carers organised by a coordinator based locally in Tywyn. Gwynedd are hoping to roll out this model elsewhere and are keen for feedback from people who the carers have visited. 

It was agreed that this has been a very positive and successful initiative by Gwynedd Council. One slight problem is that many of the carers were unable to find anywhere to park at times, so Gwynedd Council are looking into giving them parking permits.

Action: Chair to chase up parking permits for carers.

The Chair reported that it is hoped to name a contractor for the harbour project this week, with work starting in February for approximately 7 months, which is not good news for the village next summer, but it was acknowledged that this work needs done for the sea defence or Aberdyfi, so it is essential it is done. It was noted that the Community Council needs to have a discussion with the contractor, yacht Club, Outward Bound and the RNLI to discuss what exactly the plans are. 

Action: Chair to liaise with the relevant organisations to arrange a meeting as soon as possible.

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/89/20.10.21

NP5/50/L214 3 Nantiesiyn, Aberdyfi LL35 0NB

            Demolition of exisiting outhouse and erection of rear extension

No objections raised

            NP5/50/363F  Aberdyfi Lodge Park, Aberdyfi LL35 0RG

            Construction of 2 chalets in lieu of unconstructed chalets approved previously

No objections raised

            NP5/50/578B 4 Treflan, Aberdyfi LL35 0PN

            Erection of balcony on side elevation

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To consider purchasing equipment for hybrid meetings

CL/90/20.10.21

The Clerk informed the council that she and Cllr Kelly have discussed the issue and it would cost approximately £350 for a Television and webcam to allow the council to run hybrid meetings. Cllr Williams asked if purchasing a projector might be more portable and flexible.

Action: Clerk to research options and costs for projectors

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To discuss ‘Our Area 2035’ consultation

CL/91/20.10.21

It was agreed to set up a meeting with Gwen Evans for all the councillors to attend

Action: Clerk to arrange meeting with Gwen Evans and send invite to councillors.

Cllr O’Neill informed the Council that the Community Needs Survey results have now been collated but they need to be translated and asked if the Council would be willing to fund this 

37

translation. She also asked if the council would be willing to host the report on the website and to invite Deio Jones, the author of the report to give the Council a presentation on the report.

It was agreed to accept all three proposals.

Action: Clerk to liaise with Cllr O’Neill to arrange translation of the report and invite Deio Jones to a council meeting.

Action: Clerk to contact the web developer to arrange for the report to be hosted on the website

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss condition of village toilets

CL/92/20.10.21

It was noted that Gwynedd Council have informed the Council that there is no money for them to upgrade the toilets, only for maintenance, so it was agreed to ask Scrubadub to deep clean the toilets now and again in the Spring before the main season starts at Easter. 

Action: Clerk to contact Scrubadub

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider purchase of programmes for the office computer

CL/93/20.10.21          

The Clerk reported that she needed to purchase applications such as Microsoft Word etc. for the computer and has been quoted £7.90 + VAT / month. Cllr Kelly informed her that there was a much cheaper way to buy what she needs. It was agreed to leave the decision for this purchase to the Clerk and Cllr Kelly.

Action: Cllr Kelly to liaise with the clerk to purchase programmes

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider quotes for work on allotment retaining walls

CL/94/20.10.21

It was agreed to accept the lower quote using wooden posts.

Action: Clerk to contact contractors

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To discuss pavement subsidence at bottom of Gwelfor Road

CL/95/20.10.21

Cllr Kelly informed the council that he has concerns about the depth of the subsidence of the pavement on the main footpath at the bottom of Gwelfor Road. It was agreed to inform Gwynedd Council of these concerns.

Action: Clerk to report the subsidence and Council’s concerns to Gwynedd Council.

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To discuss joining the pilot of the self-assessment toolkit for councils

CL/96/20.10.21

It was agreed that it would be useful to join the pilot scheme being run by OneVoice Wales

Action: Clerk to register interest in joining the scheme.

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Correspondence

CL/97/20.10.21

  • Consultation on dangerous use of personal watercraft

Action: Councillors urged to complete the survey and encourage others to do so.

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  • Councillor survey on the role of a councillor and public perception of the role.

Action: Councillors urged to complete the survey

  • Excessive noise of grounds contractor

It was agreed to talk to him about the noise of his equipment.

Action: Clerk to speak to the ground’s contractor

  • Tywyn Minor Injuries Unit

It was noted that the Unit will open again and the GP service and other services in the hospital will all be run by Betsi Cadwallader Health Board from early next year.

Action: Clerk to put in Rushlight

  • Email concerning holiday let accommodation at Plas Panteidal

Clerk has given them details of Gwynedd Council and recommended they contact the health and safety department.

  • Guide to taking part in the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations

It was agreed to discuss this closer to the time

  • Tree sculpture update

The Clerk has met with the sculptor and agreed how much of the tree to leave and has contacted the tree surgeon to arrange a meeting to discuss when the trees will be taken down.

  • Tree planting update

The Clerk has been in contact with Snowdonia National Park and it Is hoped that the trees round the playing field will be planted in November sometime and it is hoped to involve some of the children from Aberdyfi.

  • Day on the Quay

Neil Storkey has asked if the Day on the Quay can be held in the playing field next year, given that the wharf will probably be unusable due to the work on the wharf happening at that time. 

It was agreed that this will be acceptable.

Action: Clerk to contact Neil Storkey

AGENDA ITEM 17 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/98/20.10.21

Community Needs Survey

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

CL/99/20.10.21

Picnic Island Bridge

50th Anniversary of O’Neill’s Hairdresser’s

GP practice not closing

Booster jabs

Drop-in centre

Remembrance Sunday

AGENDA ITEM 15 – Date of next meeting

CL/100/20.10.21

Monday 15th November 2021 at 7pm

There being no further business the meeting closed at 9:05pm

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