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18 December 2023

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 18th December 2023

Present: Cllr Brian Kelly – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Dewi Owen – Gwynedd Councillor

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

1 member of the public was present.

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/103/18.12.23

Apologies received from Cllr Dunton, O’Neill, Porter and Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/104/18.12.23

The Chair welcomed everyone and congratulated everyone involved in the Tractor Run at the weekend, saying it was spectacular and hoped it raised a lot of money for charity. He noted that the lights in the subway are not working at all and some of the CCTV cameras around the wharf area need maintenance or replaced. It was agreed to ask Phil Pugh to look at the cameras and for the clerk to inform Gwynedd Council about the faulty lighting in the subway.

The Chair reported that the lights on the Christmas Tree had been vandalised and were not working any more. The perpetrators were caught on CCTV and this footage has been passed to the police, and it looked as though boats and other items on the wharf had been damaged too. The clerk reported the incident on Facebook and received offers of help from various local and national businesses to replace the lights. Unfortunately new lights had been bought before the offers were received but it was agreed how appreciative the council are of the support from the community. 

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 20thNovember 2023.

CL/105/18.12.23

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/106/18.12.23

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M/87/20.11.23 – To approve licence for use of football field by golf club

The clerk has sent the draft licence to the golf club but has not yet received a reply

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M/88/20.11.23 – To approve change of lease with Gwynedd Council

The clerk has sent the draft licence to Gwynedd Council and has requested the lease be changed to contain a generic clause regarding the licence. They felt this would be acceptable and are in the process of amending the lease for the approval of the Community Council.

M/90/20.11.23 – To discuss installation of speed signs

The clerk has received examples of the speed signs Gwynedd Council intend to use and she has arranged to meet with Mr Gregson of Gwynedd Council early next year to discuss where they could be sited and how much installation and ongoing costs would be. 

M/93/20.11.23 – Sharing CCTV system with the harbour authority

The Chair has spoken to the harbour master and it has been agreed that the harbour authority will buy their own system. 

Cllr Owen reported that the harbour office is not fit for purpose and a portacabin will be placed close to the office early next year and this will be used until a new office can be found / built. 

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M/94/20.11.23 – Removing grass cuttings from Maes Newydd playground

The clerk has not heard back from Aled if he is agreeable to doing this work

Action: Clerk to chase up

M/95/20.11.23 – Village noticeboard

The clerk has not had time to talk to the pharmacy about putting a monitor in his window. Cllr Owen reported that he has been told by Parc Eryri that the digital noticeboard included in the recent Tourist Information Centre planning application is for Aberdyfi Community Council, not Parc Eryri. It is not clear if they will pay for the digital noticeboard, so it was agreed to wait to see who will have to pay for it. 

Wooden noticeboard by the toilets: it was agreed to wait to see what happens with the digital noticeboard before doing anything about this board.

Large white cork board in the covered area: It was agreed to ask Stuart Myring if he could clean up this noticeboard and repaint it.

Proposed: Cllr Williams  Seconded: Cllr Owen

Action: Clerk to contact Stuart Myring

M/96/20.11.23 – Main car park planting

Gwynedd Council have given their permission for the Community Council to go ahead with this work. Cllr Hackelsberger reported that the plan is to set a date, hopefully in February, and ask the village residents to come along and help on that day. A small digger has been offered and a call for hardy plants will be made in Rushlight, although plants will also be bought and Cllr Hackelsberger will apply to the AA&I for funding for this. 

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Action: Clerk to put something in Rushlight and to inform Bob Nickless that this work will be happening and ask for his suggestions / help.

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M/96/20.11.23 – Public toilet concerns

The clerk has contacted Gwynedd Council and they confirmed that they have been successful in obtaining funding to refurbish the main toilets in Aberdyfi and the work will be carried out next Autumn / Winter to avoid the tourist season. The work will not include the toilets by the Neuadd Dyfi and the clerk will be meeting with Gwynedd Council to discuss how much it would cost to refurbish these ones and to find out exactly what work is planned for the main toilets.

The clerk reported that both sets of toilets were given a deep clean in the spring and then again in the autumn and she has arranged for the same to be done next year.

Action: Clerk to meet with Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/107/18.12.23

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr Owen

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/108/18.12.23

Cllr Owen reported on Gwynedd Council matters as the Gwynedd Councillor for Aberdyfi. The report included:

The recent full meeting of Gwynedd Council lasted over 5 hours. BCUHB reported that the situation at Tywyn hospital and Health Centre is improving steadily and 2 more nurses have been recruited. The plan is for them to start at the beginning of next year. 

It was reported that more houses than ever in Gwynedd are not paying any rates at all. Cllr Owen asked who is responsible for checking that houses are being let for the full 182 days in order to claim rate relief and was told that there are not the resources to check them. Cllr Owen pointed out that quite a few businesses in Aberdyfi are potentially coming up for sale soon and this is being echoed in other sea-side towns, so he has asked for an impact assessment to be done into the effect of businesses closing down on the local communities. 

Gwynedd council reported that they have bought over 30 houses with a view to letting them to locals, but couldn’t give a figure of how many are currently unoccupied, as most are being refurbished. Cllr Owen pointed out that as many second homes are now being sold and becoming holiday lets, local communities are being eroded and lost. He reported that Parc Eryri are thinking of following Gwynedd Council in implementing Section 4 of planning, whereby people will have to apply for planning permission to change from residential use to a second home or to a holiday let, but they will wait to see how it works first. 

Cllr Owen reported that he has been voted in as Chair of Network Rail’s Cambrian Coast Committee. The council congratulated him on his appointment. He

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reported that more coaches are currently being built so that the trains on the Cambrian Coast can have 4 carriages rather than 2, but these will not be in service until 2025. Cllr Tyrrell asked if the railway bridges in Aberdyfi could be painted. 

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/109/18.12.23

NP5/50/165C Glygyrog Ddu, Aberdyfi LL35 0RL

Retrospective application for part single / part two storey side extensions including balcony / terraced areas, two storey rear extension, front porch, alterations to roof of existing dwelling including installation of 3 rooflights, and associated work.

Action: Clerk to contact Parc Eryri expressing disappointment that we were not given a chance to comment on the application had it come though in the normal manner

NP5/50/10M Outward Bound Centre Aberdyfi LL35 0RA

Formation of additional car parking areas in connection with the Outward Bound Centre

No objections raised

NP5/50/647B Existing highway verge adjoining A493 between Aberdyfi & Tywyn

Formation of a footpath (Active Travel route) between the communities of Tywyn and Aberdyfi adjacent to the A493

No objections raised

NP5/50/L89B 3 Copperhill Street, Aberdyfi LL35 0EU

Retrospective application to retain condensing unit at side of property

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To discuss councillor’s consumables renumeration

CL/110/18.12.23

The clerk reported that councillors will be paid £156 expenses going forward, but they will be able to decline this payment. If they do, it will be up to the full council to decide what to do with the money, not the individual councillor. 

In addition, councillors can either be paid a flat rate of £52 for consumables, or can claim this back from the council. If a flat rate, it is exempt from PAYE, but if reimbursed from the council, this will be subject to PAYE.

The clerk informed the council that each individual councillor will be able to choose what they want to do about both payments, which will come into force in the next financial year. 

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To approve budget for 2024/25

CL/111/18.12.23

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To discuss opening two savings accounts

CL/112/18.12.23

The finance committee proposed opening two instant access accounts to allow the ring-fenced money from Aberdyfi Tourism and the Playground appeal to be kept

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separate from working capital and everyday savings.

The finance committee proposed reviewing the situation next year with a view to opening a notice account then.

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Owen

Action: Clerk to open two instant access savings accounts

Action: Finance committee to discuss notice accounts next year

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss purchase of a council laptop for CCTV access

CL/113/18.12.23

It was agreed to purchase a laptop which runs Microsoft software up to £200.

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to purchase laptop

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To approve payment for storage of mobile kitchen

CL/114/18.12.23

It was agreed to pay 3 years back-dated rent for storage and to pay yearly going forward at a rate of £10 per month.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

Action: Clerk to arrange for payment to be made

AGENDA ITEM 13 – Correspondence

CL/115/18.12.23

* Parc Eryri Recreation Strategy

* Coastal path above Hillside Park is overgrown

Action: Clerk to contact Aled and ask him to cut it back

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/116/18.12.23

* Ask a representative from BCUHB to come to our meeting

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

CL/117/18.12.23

* Advent windows

* Fireworks New year

* New Year’s Day fundraiser

* Nurses recruited for Tywyn

* Tractor Run

* Vandalism of tree lights

* Cycle path update

* Car park planting

AGENDA ITEM 26 – Date of next Meeting

CL/118/18.12.23

Monday 15th January 2024 at 7.00pm

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

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20 November 2023

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 20th November 2023

Present: Cllr Brian Kelly – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dewi Owen – Gwynedd Councillor

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of the public were present.

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/80/20.11.23

Apologies received from Cllr Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/81/20.11.23

The Chair welcomed everyone and announced that the official opening of the wharf development took place last week with dignitaries from Gwynedd Council and other organisations present. He thanked Cllr Reynolds for replacing the batteries in the defibrillators and the clerk noted that the battery needs to show 0 before it will stop working. 

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 16thOctober 2023.

CL/82/20.11.23

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/83/20.11.23

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M/3/15.05.23 – Time & Tide bell information board

The board is now in place but it was noted that it is looking tired. It was agreed for the clerk to check the if it needs replaced and if the wording needs to be changed. Also to consider the possibility of adding a QR code to the information.

Action: Clerk to check the information board

M/24/19.06.23 – Coastal erosion

Cllr Owen is to meet with the golf club and Parc Eryri to see what needs to be

Cllr Williams noted that NRW dictate what maintenance the golf club can do 

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on the sand dunes

M/34/17.07.23 – Planning violations

The clerk contacted Parc Eryri and they confirmed that they plan to hold an online meeting this year

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M/42/17.07.23 – Railings in main car park

Cllr Owen showed the problem to the Head of Highways of Gwynedd Council at the wharf opening and he has agreed to come to Aberdyfi again soon to discuss a solution.

M/51/18.09.23 – Road closure in January

It was noted that this is now likely to happen in February and more details should be forthcoming within the next week.

M/55/18.09.23 – Payment for storage of kitchen

Clerk has contacted Mr George but has not had a reply

Action: Clerk to chase up

M/57/18.09.23 – RoSPA report

The clerk has met with Stuart Myring and is waiting for a quote to paint the playground equipment.

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M/58/18.09.23 – Review Food Festival

Cllr Owen and the Clerk met with organisers of the Food festival and they have agreed to run the event next year, but asked for more help. It was agreed the clerk will take responsibility for the financial aspect of the festival and the organisers will contact the clerk if they need help with other things.

M/59/18.09.23 – Correspondence

Fingerposts

These have been painted, as has the welcome sign at the Penhelig end of the village.

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M/68/16.10.23 – Gwynedd Council report

Release pf game birds

Cllr Owen reported that he had spoken to Gwynedd Council and Parc Eryri and both organisations replied that there is nothing they can do about the problem of game birds being released in Pennal and Happy Valley area, as it is currently

unregulated. Cllr O’Neil reported that she had had several close calls with birds and other cars trying to avoid birds on the road and was concerned that an accident will happen soon. She reported that there are bird feeders on the bank above the road at Cwrt, meaning that the birds are feeding on the food

that has fallen out of the feeder onto the road and she had moved one of the

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feeders as they had fallen into the road. She has contacted Highways at Gwynedd Council and sent them photos and Cllr Owen has asked Gwynedd Council to contact the organisers of the shoots.

Cycle path

The clerk reported that Gwynedd Council were unsuccessful in obtaining grant funding to complete the cycle path and they will apply again when the next round of funding opens for applications.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/84/20.11.23

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr Porter

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/85/20.11.23

Cllr Owen reported on Gwynedd Council matters as the Gwynedd Councillor for Aberdyfi. The report included:

Thank you to everyone who attended the Remembrance Services on Sunday and it was agreed to write to Mr Richardson who organises both events.

It was good to meet with the Chief Executive of Gwynedd Council face to face at the wharf opening as Cllr Owen was able to speak to him about various issues in the village and he plans to come back to Aberdyfi soon to discuss these issues further.

Action: Clerk to thank Mr Richardson

Action: Cllr Owen to meet with Gwynedd Council early next year

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/86/20.11.23

The council declared an interest in the playground application.

NP5/50/754 Aberdyfi Playground, Bodfor Terrace LL35 0EA

Refurbishment of playground equipment and wet-pour surface.

NP5/50/532F Tourist Information Centre, The Wharf, Aberdyf

LL35 0EE

Change external doors and glazing to shop fronts for new automatic opening doors, install notice boards on the front of the building, refurbish external ramps and installation of solar PV panels.

No objections were raised.

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To approve licence for use of football field by golf club

CL/87/20.11.23

It was agreed the licence is acceptable as a draft and should be sent to the golf club.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Action: Clerk to send licence to the Golf club 

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AGENDA ITEM 9 – To approve change of lease with Gwynedd Council

CL/88/20.11.23

It was agreed to go ahead with a change to the lease, ideally allowing the community council to sub-let the football field to anyone using the licence which is being used to sub0let to the golf club.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Porter

Action: Clerk to send draft licence to Gwynedd Council and ask for the sub-let clause to be generic

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To discuss opening a savings account

CL/89/20.11.23

It was agreed to open an instant access savings account with Charity Bank and for the finance committee to research a notice account.

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Action: Clerk to open an instant access savings account 

Action: Finance committee to meet to discuss notice accounts.

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss installation of speed signs

CL/90/20.11.23

It was agreed to ask for examples of the type of speed signs Gwynedd Council are able to provide and to ask for cost of civil works if signs will be put on lamp-posts.

Action: Clerk to contact Andrew Gregson at Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To approve enrolling clerk in a pension plan

CL/91/20.11.23

It was noted that the clerk hasn’t yet been enrolled in a pension plan. Cllr Porter volunteered to take this on.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Hewins

Action: Cllr Porter to enrol clerk in a pension plan

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To note new salary scale from NALC

CL/92/20.11.23

The new salary scales were noted and the clerk reminded the council that the scales date from 1st April 2023

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To discuss sharing CCTV system with the harbour authority.

CL/93/20.11.23

It was agreed to go ahead with this, though some concerns were raised about the effect using a tilt and zoom camera will have on the wi-fi and function of the card payment system in the Tourist Information Centre. It was agreed to bring this to the attention of the harbourmaster.

It was noted that currently Cllr Kelly was the only one in the council with access to the CCTV footage and that the clerk also needs to be able to view the footage. It was also agreed that the system should only be checked occasionally. It was suggested that in the interest of transparency, anyone who accesses the footage

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should keep a log of when they log in and out of the system. It was noted the police have also been given log-in details to the system.

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

Action: Cllr Kelly to liaise with the harbourmaster 

Action: Clerk to check she is able to log in to the system

Action: Anyone accessing footage to keep a record of when they log in and out of the system.

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To discuss paying Gwynedd Council to remove grass cuttings from Maes Newydd playground

CL/94/20.11.23

Gwynedd Council have told the Community Council that there is no mechanism for them to reimburse us for the cost of cutting and removing the grass cuttings. It was agreed to ask Aled how much he would charge just to remove the cuttings.

Action: Clerk to contact Aled

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To discuss installing a village noticeboard

CL/95/20.11.23

It was noted that Parc Eryri are planning on putting a digital noticeboard in the Tourist Information Centre where the Community Council were hoping to site one. It was suggested that we could potentially share their digital noticeboard. The clerk informed the council that a physical noticeboard would cost approximately £1000 and this would replace the noticeboard by the toilets in the centre of the village. It was suggested that it might also be possible to install a TV in the pharmacy window which could act as a digital noticeboard. It was agreed to ask the pharmacy if they are willing to do this and ask Aberdyfi Tourism group if they are willing to spend their money on this system. 

Action: Clerk to contact Aberdyfi Tourism

Action: Clerk to contact Pharmacy

Action: Clerk to add to agenda for next month.

AGENDA ITEM 17 – Correspondence

CL/96/20.11.23

* New year’s Day fundraiser

WeSwimRun are planning a playground fundraiser again on New year’s Day

* Aberdyfi wi-fi project

Menter-Mon have offered to come and do another session for local businesses

* Car park planting

Cllr Hackelsberger has proposed a planting solution for the main car park.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

* Aberdyfi Plastic Free Community

A proposal for Aberdyfi to become part of the Plastic Free Community Campaign was received. It was agreed to join the campaign. Cllr Porter volunteered to be on the steering group

Action: Clerk to inform the campaign of our intention to be involved

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* Public toilet concerns

Email received from a member of the public, expressing concerns about the state of the public toilets.

It was agreed to find out if Gwynedd Council plan to refurbish them and if not, how much it would cost to refurbish them, with the view to possibly covering the cost between the community council and AA&I.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

* Tywyn Hospital update

Cllr Reynolds gave an update on the staffing issues at Tywyn hospital 

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/97/20.11.23

* Village noticeboard and digital noticeboard at the pharmacy 

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

CL/98/20.11.23

* Remembrance Day services

* Opening of the wharf

* Advent windows

* Plastic Free Campaign

* Welcome to the new Post Office owners

* Fireworks New year

* New Year’s Day fundraiser

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next Meeting

CL/99/20.11.23

Monday 18th December 2023 at 7.00pm

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

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Minutes of the ordinary meeting of the financial committee of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 27th November2023

Present:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/100/27.11.23

Apologies received from Cllr Owen

AGENDA ITEM 2 – To discuss budget for 2024/25

CL/101/27.11.23

The budget was discussed and it was agreed to present to the full council at the December or Januarymeeting.

Action: Clerk to add to agenda

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To discuss opening a notice savings account

CL/102/27.11.23

It was agreed to propose opening an instant access savings account with Unity Trust Bank for the money currently ring-fenced for the Aberdyfi Tourism organisation and Playground Appeal donations. It was also agreed to propose opening a second one with Charity Bank for all but £10,000 of the remaining balance in the current account, assuming it is not too difficult to administer, and the current account balance to be kept at approximately £10,000. It was agreed to review the situation again next year with a view to possibly opening a notice savings account. 

Action: Clerk to research how easy it is to administer the Charity Bank savings account.

Action: Clerk to add to agenda for December meeting

The meeting closed at 11.30am

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16 October 2023

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 16th October 2023

Present: Cllr Brian Kelly – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dewi Owen – Gwynedd Councillor

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of the public were present.

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/63/16.10.23

Apologies received from Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/64/16.10.23

The Chair welcomed everyone and said there seems to have been quite a few visitors to the village in October. He has also noticed a poster has been stuck to the bus shelter so he is going to ask them to remove it.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 18thSeptember 2023.

CL/65/16.10.23

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/66/16.10.23

Page 16

M/3/15.05.23 – Time & Tide bell

The clerk has not been able to talk to the harbourmaster yet

Cllr Owen offered to speak to him at the Harbour Users meeting planned for the next day.

Action: Cllr Owen to speak to harbourmaster

Page 17

M/24/19.06.23 – Coastal erosion

Cllr Owen is waiting for Mabon ap Gwynfor to set a date to meet.

Action: Cllr Owen to bring up this issue at the Harbour Users meeting

M/34/17.07.23 – Planning violations

Cllr Owen has not had time to ask Parc Eryri if they plan to come to Aberdyfi this year  Action: Clerk to contact Parc Eryri

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M/42/17.07.23 – Railings in main car park

Cllr Owen has had an email stating that Gwynedd Council have no money to upgrade the railings or replace them with a wall at this time. It was noted that they will have to be replaced eventually.

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M/51/18.09.23 – Road closure in January

Griffiths Ltd have advertised public meetings at the end of October and it was agreed to encourage as many people as possible to go to them to pressure them to do the work at night and keep the road open during the day. Clerk has put up posters in the village and will also put in Rushlight.

It was noted that it has been rumoured that the new bridge is behind schedule, which will affect the dates of this road closure as the new bridge needs to be open before this work can be done.

Action: Clerk to put in meeting dates in Rushlight and on website

M/53/18.09.23 – Double yellow lines at entrance to Parc yr Ysgol

The clerk confirmed that Gwynedd Council will be going ahead with this. The council unanimously agreed to the proposal. 

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M/54/18.09.23 – removing grass cuttings from Maes Newydd playground

The clerk has emailed Gwynedd Council suggesting that the Community Council take over the grass cutting service and is reimbursed for the cost, but has not has a reply.

Action: Clerk to chase up

M/55/18.09.23 – Payment for storage of kitchen

Clerk has contacted Mr George but has not had a reply

Action: Clerk to chase up

M/56/18.09.23 – Insurance claim for locum costs

The Chair and clerk have agreed to go ahead with a claim as the excess is £250 and will have a minimal affect on premiums 

Action: Clerk to pursue insurance claim

M/57/18.09.23 – RoSPA report

GL Jones have agreed to honour their previous quote for repairing the wet- pour so the clerk has asked them to go ahead with the repairs. She is still waiting to meet with Stuart Myring to discuss painting some of the play equipment. It was noted that non-toxic paint needs to be specified. She is also waiting for a quote for repairing the benches and has not had time to put up the no dogs signs.

Action: Clerk to contact Stuart Myring and Barry Griffiths and put up no dogs signs

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Page 20

M/58/18.09.23 – Review Food Festival

Cllr Owen and Clerk to meet with organisers of Food festival at the beginning of November.

Action: Cllr Owen and Clerk to meet with organisers

M/59/18.09.23 – Correspondence

Fingerposts

These are going to be painted imminently

Campervans stayng overnight in main car park

Clerk has reported this to Gwynedd Council

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Buddlea by old School House

Clerk has reported this to Gwynedd Council

Area above Penhelig gardens

Action: Clerk to report to Gwynedd Council

Water on road in front of Britannia Inn

This has now been fixed

Footpath behind Penhelig Arms

The clerk has not yet contacted Gwynedd Council about this

Action: Clerk to report to Gwynedd Councillor

Drug use & dealing at Parc yr Ysgol

Clerk has not yet reported this to Adra. Cllr Owen reported that he had been in touch with Adra and they are aware of the situation, as are the police. 

Action: Clerk to contact Adra

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/67/16.10.23

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Williams

Unanimously agreed

It was requested that going forward the clerk produces separate accounts for the playground fundraising funds.

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/68/16.10.23

Cllr Owen reported on Gwynedd Council matters as the Gwynedd Councillor for Aberdyfi. The report included:

Gwynedd Council have reported that half the houses they bought with a view to improving them and renting them to local people have been empty since last November as they have been unable to find people to do the work. There have also been problems as Gwynedd Council have been bidding against local people for the same properties. 

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Gwynedd Council will have a deficit of £6 million next year, so there will be more cuts and these will be discussed in more detail soon so Cllr Owen will be able to give more details at the next meeting. A tourism tax has been discussed but no decision has been made.

Gwynedd Council have been in talks with NRW regarding sewage discharges into rivers. NRW have denied being responsible, so there is an ongoing investigation. 

Gwynedd Council are looking into the cost of replacing the harbourmaster’s office in Aberdyfi, as it has very large cracks and is not fit for purpose. It is hoped that it might be replaced next year. 

A question was asked regarding the release of game birds, as they are causing a lot of problems on the roads and elsewhere and are considerably disrupting the local ecosystem. Cllr Owen will ask if anything can be done about this.

It was asked how the cycle path project was going. 

Action: Cllr Owen to ask Gwynedd Council about the release of game birds.

Action: Cllr Tyrrell and clerk to find out about the cycle path project. 

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/69/16.10.23

Cllr Porter declared an interest in this agenda item.

NP5/50/147Q Nyth Robin Campsite, Panteidal, Aberdyfi LL35 0RG

Adapt and extend existing workshop building to include staff welfare facility, secure bike storage area, laundry area, plant / store room and the installations of EV charging points.

No objections were raised

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To discuss installation of speed signs

CL/70/16.10.23

The clerk has not received any information from manufacturers. Cllr Owen is waiting to hear from Andrew Gregson but noted that last time he spoke to Mr Gregson, he had been told that these type of signs are very expensive.

It was suggested that perhaps small reminder 20mph signs could be a cheaper alternative.

Action: Cllr Owen to contact Mr Gregson to discuss small reminder signs and cost of flashing speed signs

Action: Clerk to contact manufacturers for costs

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To discuss use of football field by the golf club

CL/71/16.10.23

The clerk has contacted Jenkins & Jenkins solicitors in Machynlleth who have said they are able to draw up a lease / licence for us so she will make an appointment with them as soon as the list of requirements have been agreed. They will charge £250 + VAT per hour.

Cllr Hackelsberger has produced a draft lease which will be circulated to all councillors and once agreed, this will be taken to the solicitors. 

Action: Cllr Hacklesberger to email draft licence to clerk

Action: All councillors to provide feedback on draft licence 

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AGENDA ITEM 10 – To discuss opening a savings account

CL/72/16.10.23

It was agreed to open a savings account. Cllr Tyrrell offered to research suitable accounts.

Action: Cllr Tyrrell to research suitable savings accounts

Action: Clerk to put on agenda for next meeting

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss installing a digital noticeboard

CL/73/16.10.23

It was noted that the costs of a digital noticeboard is expensive and that this might not be the best use of public funds, as even with the addition of the Aberdyfi Tourism money, the cost is quite considerable. It was also noted that the operating system of these particular noticeboards is Windows, when we would prefer a different system. It was greed to check if the operating system can be something other than Windows and what the monthly cost for the router etc. would be. It was also agreed to find out the cost of a better physical noticeboard than the one currently in use. 

Action: Clerk to contact noticeboard company

Action: Clerk to research cost of physical noticeboard.

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss installing a card payment system to the pay & display machine in the Neuadd Dyfi car park

CL/74/16.10.23

It was agreed that the cost was too much at this time to justify, as people are able to get change from the post office across the road. It was agreed to change the coach signs and also see if it is possible to change the signs at the main car park also, to see what effect this has. It was agreed to wait to see how the new owners of the Post Office feel about the public getting change from them and revisit the card payment system at a later date.

Action: Clerk to chase up new signs from Gwynedd Council

Action: Clerk to ask Post Office if people getting money for the car park is a problem. 

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To receive an update on the playground project

CL/75/16.10.23

The clerk reported that the planning application has been rejected 4 times as the plan scales do not conform to those of Parc Eryri. Caloo is now in direct contact with Parc Eryri to solve the problem. Cllr O’Neill informed the council that she had been to an Un Llais meeting and many people there had expressed dismay that we needed to get planning permission. One of the Gwynedd Councillors offered to help if we need it. Cllr O’Neill confirmed we cannot apply for grants until we have planning permission in place.

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Correspondence

CL/76/16.10.23

* Public meetings with Griffiths Ltd

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* D-Day commemorations on 6th June 2024

It was agreed to make a decision about a lighting beacon closer to the time. 

* Aberdyfi wi-fi project

It was agreed to write back to say that the wi-fi needs to cover a much larger area

to be of any real use

Action: Clerk to reply to email

AGENDA ITEM 15 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/77/16.10.23

Planting in the middle sections of the main car park

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/78/16.10.23

* Remembrance Day services

* Public meetings with Griffiths Ltd

* Blood service at the Neuadd Dyfi 27th November

* Christmas Fair at the Neuadd Dyfi 25th November

* Thanks to village planter team and dog poo bag volunteers

* Pantomime

* Village road closures 6th and 13th November

* 50th Anniversary of Aberdyfi SART.

* Fireworks 6th November

AGENDA ITEM 17 – Date of next Meeting

CL/79/16.10.23

Monday 20th November 2023 at 7.00pm

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.55pm

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18th September 2023

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 18th September 2023

Present: Cllr Brian Kelly – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dewi Owen

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

3 members of the public were present.

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/46/18.09.23

Apologies received and accepted from Cllrs Dunton, Porter and Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/47/18.09.23

The chair remarked on how good it was to see events taking place again after the pandemic and that the Food Festival and DyfiFest were both very successful. He thanked everyone who was involved in organising the events and hoped that they will continue next year.

In July there was an incident involving young people who live locally, where the signs etc. from outside the Post Office were placed on the main road, causing obstruction to traffic. CCTV footage has been passed to the police, they have issued a crime number and will be investigating further. 

The chair has been researching the sewage outlet problems reported by residents and said that it is still ongoing and he will report back when he has the full picture. 

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 17th July2023.

CL/48/18.09.23

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Hewins

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/49/18.09.23

Page 11

M/3/15.05.23 – Time & Tide Bell

The clerk reported she has been unable to contact the harbourmaster regarding the location of the information board for the Time & Tide Bell, or Peter Gringold.

Action: Clerk to contact the harbourmaster and Peter Gringold. 

16

M/24/19.06.23 – Coastal erosion

Cllr Owen reported that he is still waiting to meet with Mabon ap Gwynfor and the golf club to discuss this issue but is hoping to soon and will report at the next meeting.

Action: Cllr Owen to meet with Mabon ap Gwynfor and the golf club

Page 12

M/34/17.07.23 – Gwynedd Council report

Planning violations

Cllr Owen has not been able to contact SNPA regarding this issue.

Action: Cllr Owen to contact SNPA regrading planning violations and confirm they will visit Aberdyfi in the Autumn to meet with residents.

M/35/17.07.23 – Introduction of 20 mph speed limit

Cllr Owen is waiting to hear from Andrew Gregson of Gwynedd Council as to how much flashing speed limit signs will cost and if Gwynedd Council are willing to install them in Aberdyfi. 

The clerk has requested brochures from companies who sell these signs.

Action: Cllr Owen to contact Andrew Gregson 

Action: Clerk to add to the next agenda

M/39/17.07.23 – use of football field for golf junior training

The Chair has spoken to the secretary of the golf club and both parties seem agreeable to the proposal and agree that a legal lease or licence needs to be put in place. 

The clerk has not yet been given the details of a solicitor. 

Action: Clerk to obtain details and contact a solicitor regarding leases / licences.

Action: Cllrs Hackelsberger and Tyrrell to compile list of requirements to be included 

Action: Clerk to put on agenda for next meeting.

Page 13

M/40/17.07.23 Installation of water-bottle filling station

This is due to be installed within the next few weeks

Page 14

M/42/17.07.23 

Playground project

We have been advised that we require planning permission so an application has been submitted. Banners containing a QR code have been bought and put up. Cllr O’Neill pointed out that we can’t apply for any grants until we know if we have planning permission or not.

Railings in main car park

Cllr Owen has written 3 emails regarding this issue and is waiting to hear back. 

Action: Clerk to chase up

17

Maintenance of osprey sculpture

The clerk reported that she bought oil and arranged for it to be applied to the sculpture. There is enough oil left to last two or three years

House sign on old Catholic Church

Cllr Owen has been unable to contact the owners despite 3 visits to the property. It was reported that apparently several residents have written directly to the owners but none have received a reply. 

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/50/18.09.23

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Williams

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/51/18.09.23

Cllr Owen reported on Gwynedd Council matters as the Gwynedd Councillor for Aberdyfi. The report included:

20mph speed limit

Gwynedd Council acknowledge that the change will cause different feelings within the community and Cllr Owen said he will contact Mr Gregson again about installing flashing speed cameras at either end of the village.

Road closure in January

Cllr Owen has spoken to Griffiths Ltd, who have been inundated with complaints about the proposed closure at the cottages on the North side of the old bridge for 3 weeks in January. This will result in a diversion via Talyllyn and Corris, which will add approximately an hour onto the journey. Griffiths Ltd explained that the pipes they need to lay will have to go along the middle of the road, so the whole road will need to be closed. They also explained that they are contracted by the Welsh Government to do this work, so they have to obtain permission / direction from the Government to make any changes to the plans. The clerk reported that she had also spoken to Griffiths Ltd and was told that they are logging every complaint they receive and will be passing them all onto the Welsh Government. Cllr Owen reported that Gwynedd Council were not happy with the situation either and will be objecting to the closure.

Action: Clerk to ask liaison officer of Griffiths Ltd to attend the next council meeting

Action: Clerk to write to Highways, Griffiths Ltd, Mabon ap Gwynfor and Liz Saville-Roberts

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/52/18.09.23

No planning applications have been received

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To discuss placing double yellow lines at the entrance to Parc yr Ysgol

CL/53/18.09.23

It was noted that the zig-zag lines have been removed from the entrance to Parc yr Ysgol but have not been replaced by double yellow lines. It was agreed to request

18

double yellow lines for the minimum distance either side of the side road. 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To discuss removing grass cuttings from Maes Newydd playground

CL/54/18.09.23

The clerk has received a quote from Pennal Garden Services for cutting and removing the cuttings, which is approximately half the cost that Gwynedd want for just removing the cuttings. It was agreed to see if Gwynedd Council will allow the Community Council to take over responsibility for the grass cutting and reclaim the money back from Gwynedd. 

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To discuss making a payment for storage of the mobile kitchen

CL/55/18.09.23

No payment has ever been made to Mr. George for storing the mobile kitchen for approximately the 7 years that we have owned the kitchen. It was agreed obtain a figure and invoice from Mr. George. 

Action: Clerk to contact Mr. George

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To decide whether to make an insurance claim for locum clerk costs

CL/56/18.09.23

It was agreed to find out how much the policy excess is and how much premiums would go up if a claim is made. It was agreed for the Chair and Clerk to decide whether to make a claim based on the figures. 

Action: Clerk to find out policy excess and premium increases.

Action: Clerk and Chair to jointly decide whether to make claim.

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss RoSPA report and decide any actions

CL/57/18.09.23

The clerk reported that the last quote from GL Jones for repairing the wet-pour is out of date and though it was agreed to have the work done, GL Jones was not asked to do the work as the clerk went off sick before she was able to contact them. It was agreed to obtain a new quote and to go ahead if the Chair and Clerk decide if it is reasonable.

The Clerk reported she is going to meet with Stuart Myring to obtain a quote for repainting the play equipment that requires it. 

The clerk has ‘No Dogs’ signs ready to be put up

The clerk is waiting for a reply from Barry Griffiths with a quote for repairing the concrete benches and bolting down the metal benches and picnic bench. It was agreed to go ahead if the Chair and Clerk decide the quote is reasonable.

Action: Clerk to obtain new quote for repairing the wet-pour and go ahead if reasonable

Action: Clerk to obtain quote for painting equipment

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Action: Clerk to put up ‘No Dogs’ signs

Action: Clerk to contact Barry Griffiths and decide with Chair if the quote is reasonable. 

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To review Food Festival

CL/58/18.09.23

It was agreed that the festival was an overall success, having received a lot of positive feedback. The clerk reported that she had had one complaint about dogs being allowed onto the site and another about the fumes from the generator entering the properties in Rhos Dyfi. It was agreed the generator could be sited in a different place next year. It was agreed to try to get more quotes for a generator next year. It was agreed that it would be good to continue with the Food Festival next year on the same site, but noted that the organisers will need more help next year with the organising in the run-up to the event, not just on the day. Cllr Owen reported that he will meet with the clerk and the organisers to review the Food Festival and make a plan going forward.

Action: Cllr Owen and Clerk to meet with the organisers

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Correspondence

CL/59/18.09.23

Coach signs at the Neuadd Dyfi.

Gwynedd Council are going to create a design to include cars as well as coaches and will provide a quote as well. The Community Council will then decide whether to go ahead. 

Fingerposts

Stuart Myring is going to paint 3 of the fingerposts in the village, at a cost of £125 per post. Cllr Tyrrell is going to ask Les Hunt to remove the fingerpost by the toilets. It was agreed to ask Stuart Myring if he could repaint the part of the village sign that has been painted out by persons unknown.

Action: Cllr Tyrrell to contact Les Hunt

Action: Clerk to contact Stuart Myring

Boardwise

Boardwise are having a demonstration weekend on 7th and 8th October and in previous years they have been allowed to park campervans in the Neuadd Dyfi car park. The clerk has given permission again for this. 

Campervans in main car park

Complaints have been received that campervans have been staying overnight in the car park and emptying their waste in the surrounding bushes etc. Apparently the traffic warden has told them it’s OK to stay overnight, so long as they have paid the fee for 24 hours. It was noted that Gwynedd Council are trialling specific campervan sites so it was agreed to wait to see the results of these trails and to tell Gwynedd Council about the complaints and what the traffic wardens have said. 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

20

Buddlea by Old School House

This is pulling the wall down on the footpath opposite the council office. It was agreed for the clerk to write to Gwynedd Council.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

Area above Penhelig Gardens

It was reported that the path, railings and bench above Penhelig Gardens are in poor repair and need attention.

Action: Clerk to find out who is responsible for this area and contact them.

Water on road in front of the Britannia Inn

The clerk reported that workmen have been several times to try to fix this, but when they put cones out to clear the area, cars move them and park in the way, so they have been unable to do the work as yet.

Footpath behind the Penhelig Arms

It was reported that this footpath is deteriorating further and needs urgent attention. 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council / Snowdonia National Park

Time & Tide Bell

Cllr Owen reported that he had received an email from a person involved with the Time & Tide Bell in Angelsey, asking to create closer links between our 2 Bells, as they are the only ones in Wales. It was agreed it would be good to explore options on how we can increase the profile of our bell and it’s remit to raise awareness of climate change.

Action: Clerk to contact them and arrange a meeting

Action: Clerk to contact harbourmaster with regard to revamping Time & Tide Bell signs with QR codes etc.

Drug use / dealing at Parc Yr Ysgol

Complaints have been received regarding apparent drug use and dealing by some residents at Parc yr Ysgol. It was agreed to write to Adra expressing concern.

Action: Clerk to write to Adra

AGENDA ITEM 15 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/60/18.09.23

* Digital Noticeboard

* EV charging points

* Review social media policy

* Review training plan

* Footpath between Picnic Island Bridge and OB

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/61/18.09.23

* Thank organisers of the Food Festival and DyfiFest

* Road closure

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* Community lunches

* Water bottle filling station

* Boardwise

* Messy church

* Time & Tide Bell

AGENDA ITEM 17 – Date of next Meeting

CL/62/18.09.23

Monday 16th October 2023 at 7.00pm

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

22

17th July 2023

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 17th July 2023

Present: Cllr Brian Kelly – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dewi Owen – Gwynedd Councillor

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

4 member of the public were present.

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/27/17.07.23

No apologies received.

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/28/17.07.23

The Chair welcomed everyone and said how good it is to have the clerk back at work.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To co-opt a new councillor

CL/29/17.07.23

Roman Hackelsberger was co-opted as a councillor.

Proposed: Cllr Williams  Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Unanimously agreed

Mr. Hackelsberger signed an Acceptance of Office form in the presence of the clerk and council.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive a presentation and discuss the 2023 Food Festival

CL/30/17.07.23

A presentation was received by the organisers of the Food Festival which is planned for Sunday 20th August and it was agreed that the council would arrange for the football posts to be removed on the Friday before the festival and would help on the Saturday to set-up chairs, water-connections etc. and clean the site before and after the event. The council also agreed for dogs to be allowed on the site for the event and would provide dog poo bags to be positioned around the site. 

Action: Councillors to remove football posts and help set-up and clear-down the event. Clerk to supply dog poo bags.

10

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and confirm minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 19th June2023.

CL/31/17.07.23

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Williams

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Matters arising

CL/32/17.07.23

Page 7

M/3/15.05.23 – Matters arising

The clerk reported that it is unclear whether anyone has spoken to the harbourmaster about the location of the information board for the Time & Tide Bell, or if anyone has written to Peter Gringold for examples of other information boards. The council confirmed that neither has been done and asked the clerk to follow up both items.

Action: Clerk to contact the harbourmaster and Peter Gringold. 

Page 8 

M/23/29.06.23 – Correspondence

Benches to replace the curved ones in the wharf gardens have been ordered and will be delivered on 18thJuly.

M/24/19.06.23 – Items for consideration at future meetings

Coastal erosion

Cllr Owen reported that he is meeting with Mabon ap Gwynfor and members of Aberdyfi Golf Club on 1stAugust to discuss this issue, so will be able to give an update at the next meeting.

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Treasurer’s report

CL/33/17.07.23

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Owen

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 8 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/34/17.07.23

Cllr Owen reported on Gwynedd Council matters as the Gwynedd Councillor for Aberdyfi. The report included:

Some information from the census which was done a few years ago has now been published and contains some statistics such as there were less Welsh speakers in Gwynedd than the last census and the average age of the population in Gwynedd has increased. 

He also reported that he has spoken to National Resources for Wales who informed him that the recently reported pollution in the water in Aberdyfi is due to animal waste being washed down the estuary from farms and areas further upstream during high tides and it is not human waste being discharged from the storm drain in the village.

Action: Clerk to find out more information regarding storm drain in Aberdyfi.

11

It has been reported that Aberdyfi has a high incidence of planning violations and Cllr Owen will ask if Snowdonia National Park planning department are coming to Aberdyfi in the Autumn as normal, and if not, he will request that they come down to meet with the council to discuss planning matters.

Action: Cllr Owen to contact Snowdonia National Park planning department

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To discuss 20mph speed limit to be introduced in September

CL/35/17.07.23

It was reported that all 30mph signs will have to be replaced by 20 mph signs by law and Cllr Owen reported that he had asked Gwynedd Council how much this was going to cost, but a figure was not available. He was assured he would be given the figure at the next meeting of Gwynedd Council. 

Cllr Owen reported that he has discussed the possibility of placing flashing speed signs at the entrance to the village with the Highways department at Gwynedd Council and they are happy to work with the Community Council to explore this idea.

Action: Cllr Owen to research price of flashing speed signs.

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To confirm members of the Finance Committee

CL/36/17.07.23

The clerk informed the council that at the Annual Meeting this year, the members of the finance committee were agreed to be Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, O’Neill and Owen, with Cllr Tyrrell as deputy. Cllr O’Neill informed the council that she had not agreed to be on the finance committee and this was a mistake. The council agreed that going forward the finance committee will be comprised of Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Owen, Tyrrell and Williams. 

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Porter

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 11 – Planning

CL/37/17.07.23

No planning applications have been received

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss and confirm member’s allowance payments to be made to councillors

CL/38/17.07.23

All councillors did not want to claim any allowances for the year to end of March 2023 and supplied written confirmation of their wish to opt out.

The clerk reminded the council that next year it will be compulsory to accept allowance payments and the council noted that this will need to be taken into account when setting the budget for next year.

Action: Clerk to ensure allowance payments are included in next year’s budget.

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To discuss and decide on a proposal for the golf club to use the football field for junior training

CL/39/17.07.23

12

The Chair informed the council that he was approached by the golf club with a request to use the football field for training junior members in return for maintaining the field, cutting the grass etc. It was agreed in principle to go ahead, with a final decision being made after consultation with a solicitor and a lease being agreed. 

It was agreed that in the interim Cllr Owen would cut the grass with a tractor and the council would pay for the fuel. Cllrs Hackelsberger and Tyrrell agreed to compile a list of requirements and responsibilities to be included in any lease.

Proposed: Cllr Dunton Seconded: Cllr Hewins

Unanimously agreed 

Action: Cllr Hackelsberger and Tyrrell to compile list of requirements and responsibilities to be included in lease

Action: Clerk to contact a solicitor and ask them for more information on leases

Action: Cllr Owen to cut the grass on the football field.

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To discuss and decide on installation of water-bottle filling station

CL/40/17.07.23

The clerk reported that she has had confirmation from SNPA that planning permission is not needed as it comes under permitted development. The clerk will forward this information to Mr Edward Jones at SNPA and it was agreed for Cllrs Hewins and Owen to install the station. 

Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Action: Clerk to contact Mr. Jones and copy in the harbourmaster

Action: Clerk and Cllrs Hewins and Owen to liaise with the harbourmaster regarding installation

Action: Cllrs Hewins and Owen to install the filling station

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To delegate powers to the Clerk and Chair until the September meeting

CL/41/17.07.23

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Correspondence

CL/42/17.07.23

* Fisherman’s compound

The Chair informed the Council that this project is now not going ahead, as new planning permission was required for the project to go ahead without electricity, as this was proving to be too expensive to include in the project, but planning permission would not be completed in time before the deadline for the EU money to be spent, so FLAG took the decision not to proceed with the project. FLAG has now disbanded due to the EU funding stream coming to an end.

* Dovey Fest

This will take place on 26th / 27th August on the wharf gardens with fireworks on the Sunday evening on the beach.

13

* Graffiti at Pont y Brics

Cllr Reynolds sent photos to the Clerk, who forwarded them on to Gwynedd Council. The Council came to view the graffiti the next day and informed the clerk that it will be dealt with. 

* Playground Project update

Cllrs O’Neill and Porter informed the council that the working group had a site meeting with Calloo last week. The colours have been toned down and slight changes made to the wetpour design and they are waiting for these changes to be sent through. Once the new design has been received, banners will be created which will include the design and a QR code linked to the fundraising page. Cllr O’Neill reported she has meetings about National Lottery and Community grants in the next few weeks.

Action: Cllr O’Neill to meet with grant-giving bodies 

It was agreed to ask Barry Griffiths for a quote to repair the concrete benches.

Action: Clerk to contact Barry Griffiths for quote

* Railings in main car park

Cllr Tyrrell reported that Ardal Ni have been working through the list of areas in the village needing attention, but the list needs updating. He is meeting with Gwynedd Council next week to discuss the railings between the car park and the promenade and will suggest a wall be put in place of the railings, to help stop the sand being blown into the car park. They will also discuss what options are available to tidy the areas that currently contain trees, boulders etc. in between the parking bays. He reported that Gwynedd Council have agreed to replace all the lamp-posts in the car park. 

Action: Cllrs Owen and Tyrell to meet with Gwynedd Council 

* Maintenance of Osprey sculpture

The clerk informed the council that she will purchase the oil required to maintain the sculpture and arrange for it to be applied. 

Action: Clerk to purchase oil and arrange for it to be applied

* House sign at the old Catholic Church

Several complaints have been received about the house name being displayed outside the old Catholic Church. It is felt to be an inappropriate and disrespectful name as people’s ashes are scattered in the land adjoining the property.

Action: Cllr Owen to speak to the owners

* Community wi-fi network

The clerk and Cllrs Hewins, Owen and Porter attended a meeting last week regarding the community wi-fi network installed in the village. Currently it only covers the wharf gardens, the car park and the bottom of Copperhill Street, but there are plans to extend it further and it was requested that it be extended as far as the Neuadd Dyfi. 

14

Sensors are available to collect different types of data such as footfall, pollution levels, noise levels etc. and the data would be uploaded to a website so that the information would be in the public domain. More information will be forthcoming on the project as it progresses. 

Action: Clerk to keep council informed of project progress

AGENDA ITEM 17 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/43/17.07.23

List of improvements needed in the village

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

CL/44/17.07.23

Food Festival

Dovey Fest

Wellbeing Hub

Fire Service 125 year celebrations

AGENDA ITEM 19 – Date of next Meeting

CL/45/17.07.23

Monday 18th September 2023 at 7.00pm

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9.15pm

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19th June 2023

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 19th June 2023

Present: Cllr. Brian Kelly – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr. Mark Dunton

Cllr. Ian Hewins

Cllr. Dewi Owen

Cllr. Sadie Porter

Cllr. Megan Reynolds

Cllr. Bob Tyrrell

Cllr. Dave Williams

Two members of the Public

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/13/19.06.23

Apologies accepted from Councillors Bradbury-Willis and O’Neill.

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Public participation

CL/14/19.06.23

There were no questions or requests from any members of the Public.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Chair announcements

CL/15/19.06.23

The Chair introduced Roman Hackelsberger who had expressed an interest in being co-opted to Aberdyfi Community Council. Roman addressed the Meeting to introduce himself but due to the request for co-option being received after the publication of the Agenda, no decision was able to be taken and the co-option will take place during the July Ordinary Meeting.

The invoice for work undertaken to redevelop the Fisherman’s Compound has been received.

Clarification on the membership of the Finance Committee will be deferred until the July Meeting due to the absence of Cllr. O’Neill.

Liz Saville-Roberts MP spoke recently on Radio 4’s Any Questions programme in support of Tywyn Hospital. The Chair will write a letter thanking Liz for raising the issues at the hospital to a national audience.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm the minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 15thMay 2023.

CL/16/19.06.23

Proposed: Cllr. Reynolds  Seconded: Cllr. Tyrrell

Unanimously agreed

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AGENDA ITEM 5 – Matters arising

CL/17/19.06.23

CL/1/AM/15.05.23

To clarify the membership of the Finance Committee. Cllr. O’Neill questioned whether she was a member of the Finance Committee but the Minutes of the 2022 Annual Meeting have her recorded as a member. The recent Annual Meeting was not clear in who are members apart from Cllrs. Porter and Dunton. The FinanceCommittee should comprise of four members of the Council.

CL/3/15.05.23

Time and Tide Bell – Enquire of Will Stockford the location of the information board and for it to be reinstated. Write to Peter Gingold for examples of other information boards at Time and Tide Bells across the UK. It was suggested a new board could incorporate a QR code to provide more information regarding the history of the bell than could fit on a board.

CL/12/15.05.23

The Tourist Information Office are now saying that planning permission is required for the water fountain despite the Clerk having confirmed that no planning permission is required.

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Treasurer’s report

CL/18/19.06.23

Proposed: Cllr. Owen Seconded: Cllr. Hewins

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To approve the Annual Return for 2022-23

CL/19/19.06.23

Proposed: Cllr. Owen Seconded: Cllr. Tyrrell

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 8– To review and approve the new Model Standing Orders

CL/20/19.06.23

Proposed: Cllr. Williams  Seconded: Cllr. Reynolds

Unanimously agreed

7

AGENDA ITEM 9 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/21/19.06.23

Cllr Owen reported on Gwynedd Council matters as the Gwynedd Councillor for Aberdyfi. The report included:

Updates to Gwynedd Councillors on data protection matters and the need to be careful when making public statements on social media.

Gwynedd Council have discussed local economy matters and the effect on shops and businesses of the current cost of living crisis.

There has been no discussion yet about changes to planning rules regarding second homes and holiday lets but one is expected in the near future.

AGENDA ITEM 10 – Planning

CL/22/19.06.23

Planning Application NP5/50/748 Land at Brig-y-Don, Aberdyfi, LL35 0NConstruction of a two-storey detached dwelling.

Councillors discussed the planning application at length and no objections were raised by those present.

AGENDA ITEM 11 – Correspondence

CL/23/19.06.23

Councillors discussed the correspondence items which had been circulated ahead of the Meeting.

An additional item, received after the Agenda had been published, was an invitation to advertise in the Cambrian News. It was felt there was no benefit for the Council in advertising in this manner.

The semi circular benches that the Council supplied for the wharf need replacing and it was requested that the order be placed as soon as possible in order for them to be in place for the summer season.

The Gwynedd Council Tidy Team have made good progress on the list of works supplied by Cllr. Tyrrell.

A broken branch on the large tree close to the Neuadd was promptly attended to by Gwynedd Council.

AGENDA ITEM 12 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/24/19.06.23

Aberdyfi Golf Club – the effect of coastal erosion on the sand dunes and the golf club.

Playground redevelopment.

8

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

CL/25/19.06.23

Aberdyfi Food Festival

Wolverhampton to Aberdyfi bike ride

New benches

Rowing regatta

Dyfi Fest

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Date of next Meeting

CL/26/19.06.23

Monday 17th July 2023 7.00pm

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9.07pm

9