Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 15^th December 2025

Present:

Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors: Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

Cllr Henry Williams

1 member of the public was present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/130/15.12.25

Apologies were received and accepted from Cllr Bradbury-Willis

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/131/15.12.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and reported that the playground is progressing well and it was agreed that it is looking very good. 

He congratulated the Golf Club on being named the Best in Wales and in the top 10 of the UK. He also congratulated Tywyn Magic Lantern cinema on being voted number 1 in the UK, especially when so many cinemas have closed in recent years, this is an amazing achievement and testament to all their hard work. He noted that Gwen restaurant in Machynlleth has also been awarded best in Wales and commented that the publicity from all these fantastic achievements greatly helps this part of Wales. It was agreed to write and congratulate all three establishments.

Action: Clerk to write to the Golf Club, Tywyn Magic Lantern cinema and Gwen.

He thanked everyone who came to the Christmas dinner and thanked Seabreeze for providing a lovely meal.

Action: Clerk to write and thank Seabreeze

He noted that BCUHB has been in the news a lot lately and we will wait to see the outcome of the various talks and the effect of the Senedd elections in May. 

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

CL/132/15.12.25

Cllrs Hewins, Kelly, O’Neill, Owen, Reynolds and D. Williams declared an interest in agenda item 9 regarding the Neuadd Dyfi.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 17^thNovember 2025

CL/133/15.12.25

39

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 17^th November 2025 were received and unanimouslyapproved.

Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr Hewins

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Finance Committee meeting held on 9^th December 2025

CL/ 134/15.12.25

The minutes of the Finance Committee meeting on 9^th December 2025 were received and unanimously approved

Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr Porter

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

CL/135/15.12.25

The treasurer’s report for December was received and approved

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/136/15.12.25

Cllr Owen reported that the vegetation on the road towards Machynlleth has recently been cut back and this has helped improve visibility for drivers. 

He had a phone call from the Trefeddian Hotel, who told him that they have been informed that the 40% business rate relief that was put in place during Covid is planned to be removed from April next year, meaning that their rates will increase by £70,000 next year. They are extremely worried about the effect this will have on their business. Cllr Owen raised this issue at the Gwynedd Council economy meeting last week and he reported that not many councillors knew about this proposal. The Gwynedd Council Officers agreed to look into it in more detail. Cllr D. Williams reported hearing that a new Act is planned to be brought in which would give 30% business rates relief, so the increase might not be as much as feared. However, he noted that this may have been an announcement by Central Government, not Welsh Government, he wasn’t sure. Cllr Owen said he would ask again at the next meeting of Gwynedd Council and report back on the situation.

He reported that Article 4 in Gwynedd looks as if it will now not be happening, but it is unclear how this will affect those with properties in the Parc.

Action: Clerk to contact Parc Eryri to ask about Article 4 plans. 

Cllr Owen reported that last week Plaid Cymru voted with Labour to give Gwynedd an increase of 4.5%, which means that instead of the 11 or 12% increase in Council Tax that was feared, it will hopefully be more like a 5 or 6% increase for households. 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive and approve a report from the Clerk

CL/137/15.12.25

The Clerk reported on the following:

40

* Digital Noticeboard

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

* CCTV in Neuadd Dyfi car park

The clerk hasn’t had time to research costs yet.

Action: Clerk to research cost and put on agenda for discussion

* Risk Management Policy

One Voice Wales has informed the clerk that it is sufficient just to make reference to the S6 report in the Risk Assessment Schedule.

Clerk is still waiting for a reply from RoSPA regarding disclaimer notices and inspection regimes

* Playground refurbishment

Work has begin on installing the equipment, though has been hampered by the bad weather so is slightly behind schedule. It is envisaged that the wet-pour will be installed early in the New Year. The clerk has received extremely positive feedback from the public so far. 

She noted that a date needs to be set for the official opening and an eisteddfod competition needs to be arranged prior to this. It was agreed that early March might be good, to give time to arrange prizes, signage, personnel etc. 

Cllr Hewins noted that the shackles and seats on the swings need to be replaced, and asked if the company doing the refurbishment might do it while they’re here. It was agreed to ask if this is possible.

Cllr Hewins noted that the benches in the playground need attention and suggested they be painted. Cllr Owen agreed and suggested he and Cllr Hewins move the benches once the work is finished to a barn and pain them. 

Action: Clerk to arrange signs and eisteddfod

Action: Council to decide on a date for official opening and arrange for a dignitary to open the playground. 

Action: Clerk to ask if possible to install new seats and shackles on the swings and obtain a cost

Action: Cllrs Hewins and Owen to refurbish the benches

* Skip

Was a great success with the vast majority of people being very positive and thankful for it. The clerk noted it wasn’t put in the best location so if it is repeated, she will give them more specific instructions on where to place it. The Councillors agreed it was a success and agreed to have another skip next year, again out of season. 

Action: Clerk to put on Agenda for next Autumn

* Dwr Cymru

Dwr Cymru have passed the work done on the water pipe in the allotments. The Clerk is waiting for an invoice for the parts used. 

41

* Trees in main car park

Cllr Owen reported that he has been approached by Parc Eryri who wish to work with Aberdyfi Council to plant trees in and around the village. He suggested we could off buying these trees until he has met with Parc officials, as they may pay for them or provide replacements. He asked all councillors to inform the clerk if they know of anywhere where trees might be planted elsewhere in the village. 

Action: Councillors to inform clerk of sites suitable for tree planting

Action: Clerk to inform Roman of the situation

Action: Clerk & Cllr Owen to meet with Parc officials early next year

* Mobile kitchen storage

The clerk reported that Des is giving up his unit in Tywyn so the council needs to find somewhere to store the mobile kitchen. Various options were discussed and it was agreed to speak to Des to see if it could be stored in the unit behind the Post Office temporarily and to put it as an item agenda for the next meeting.

Action: Clerk to add to agenda for next month

Action: Cllr Owen or Cllr Kelly to speak to Des

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/138/15.12.25

NP5/50/109K Neuadd Dyfi, Penrhos, Aberdyfi LL35 0NR

Construction of extension to create new entrance area

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To ratify decision to pay £142.72 for translation of interpretation boards

CL/139/15.12.25

Agreed unanimously

Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider keeping both sets of toilets open all year

CL/140/15.12.25

The Finance Committee recommended keeping both sets open all year and it was agreed unanimously to go ahead with this.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Hewins

Action: Clerk to inform Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider increasing parking charges in Neuadd Dyfi car park

CL/141/15.12.25

It was agreed to remove the 1 hour option and increase charges to £2.25 for 2 hours, £3.25 for 3 hours and £4.75 all day and review next year.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to arrange

It was agreed to delegate the purchase of 2 new signs to the clerk, 1 sign giving general information and 1 smaller sign detailing charges, up to a maximum of £500.

42

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Hewins

Action: Clerk to purchase signs

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider and approve budget for 2026/27

CL/142/15.12.25

The draft budget for 2026/27 financial year recommended by the Finance Committee was approved unanimously

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider and approve the precept demand for 2026/27

CL/143/15.12.25

The draft precept recommended by the Finance Committee of £51,181 was approved unanimously. Due to an increase in the Tax Base for Aberdyfi from 1194.7 last year to 1336.17 this year, this equates to an increase in a Band D property of 0.5% (18p), ie. from £38.12 to £38.30.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to submit precept demand to Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To consider quotes for repairing fence of playing fields

CL/144/15.12.25

The clerk presented 3 quotes for consideration and it was agreed to accept the quote for £1,665.50, with the proviso that any extra unforeseen work is agreed prior to being carried out.. Cllr Dunton offered to donate 4 bags of postcrete to the project.

Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr Porter

Action: Clerk to arrange for the work to be done

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To consider quotes for repairing the cupboard doors in the shelter beside the main toilets

CL/145/15.12.25

The clerk presented 3 quotes for consideration and it was agreed to accept the quote for £1,140.00, with the proviso that any extra unforeseen work is agreed prior to being carried out.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to arrange for work to be done

AGENDA ITEM 17 – To consider quotes to fence in and roof the bin compound by the fire station

CL/146/15.12.25

The clerk presented 3 quotes for consideration and it was agreed to accept the quote for £3,588.00, with the proviso that any extra work is agreed prior to being done. Cllr Hewins offered to dispose of the waste from the project.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Hewins

Action: Clerk to arrange for work to be done

43

AGENDA ITEM 18– Correspondence which requires a response from the Council

CL/147/15.12.25

* Email regarding Food Festival arrangements

It was agreed that there should be no restrictions on what stalls should be allowed to take part and it was suggested that perhaps more stalls could possible be put on the wharf gardens or in the Neuadd Dyfi, to allow the festival to accommodate more stalls.

Action: Clerk to inform the organisers and reply to email

* One Voice Wales – Notice of Annual Meeting 21 January (remote). 1 councillor required with 1 reserve. Cllr O’Neill offered to attend and Cllr Owen offered to be reserve.

Action: Clerk to inform One Voice Wales

* Email regarding provision of skip

It was agreed that the skip had been a great success, with some people taking items that had been put in and the clerk confirmed that the skip company recycle as many items as possible. The council declared its intention to repeat the provision next year in the off-season.

Action: Clerk to reply to email.

AGENDA ITEM 19 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council which has already been circulated to Councillors

CL/148/15.12.25

* One Voice Wales – National Energy System Operator methodology consultation

* Tywyn Hospital Action Group – reference papers for Dyfi Ward consultations

* One Voice Wales – training dates for December 2025 – March 2026

AGENDA ITEM 20– Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/149/15.12.25

* Purchase of better equipment for streaming and remote attendance at meetings

* Photo of all councillors

AGENDA ITEM 21 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/150/15.12.25

* Panto

* Ian Bayliss rowing the Atlantic

* Clwb Sgwrsio 5^th January

* Beach clean

* Golf Club, Cinema, Gwen congratulations

* Institute membership increasing

* Recap of year?

AGENDA ITEM 22 – Date of next meeting

CL/151/15.12.25

Monday 19^th January

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.45pm

44

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council Finance Committee held at the Literary Institute on Tuesday 9^th December 2025

Present:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Dave Williams

Officer: Sandy Andrews

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/125/09.12.25

None received

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Declaration of financial, personal or prejudicial interest

CL/126/09.12.25

Cllr Williams declared an interest in the items regarding the Neuadd Dyfi 

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To discuss the proposed increase in contributions to the Public Toilets Partnership Scheme

CL/127/09.12.25

It was noted that it was only a few years ago that the council agreed to pay for both sets of toilets to remain open all year and it was felt that both sets need to remain open all year for the health and convenience of the public. It was agreed to recommend to the full council that both sets of toilets are kept open all year.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To discuss increasing parking charges for the Neuadd Dyfi car park

CL/128/09.12.25

It was noted that the charges in the Neuadd Dyfi car park have not increased for several years and in light of charges for Gwynedd Council car parks increasing, it was proposed to recommend that charges should be increased by 25p per period.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To prepare a draft budget and precept for presentation to Aberdyfi Community Council for the 2026/27 financial year. 

CL/129/09.12.25

The clerk presented a draft budget and precept calculations to the committee and both were discussed at length and in detail. The budget for 2026/27 of £64,306 was agreed to be proposed to the full council without amendments. 

The precept was agreed at £51,181 and it was noted that as the Tax Base for Aberdyfi has increased from 1,194.71 to 1,336.17, this equates to an increase of 0.5% in the Band D Council Tax equivalent. It was agreed to recommend this increase. 

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 3.05pm

38

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 17^th November 2025

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

Cllr Henry Williams

4 members of the public were present

A representative from Tywyn Hospital Action Group gave a short presentation during the Public Participation session. 

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/104/17.11.25

Apologies were received and accepted from Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/105/17.11.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and noted the terrible flooding issues in Monmouth in the last few days which have had a devastating effect on residents and businesses there, especially in the run-up to the festive season. The Council’s thoughts are with them. 

He thanked all the Councillors who came to the Remembrance services, which were well-attended and as always, well organised. He proposed the Council write to thank those involved in organising the event.

Action: Clerk to write

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

CL/106/17.11.25

None received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 20^thOctober 2025

CL/107/17.11.25

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 20^th October 2025 were received and unanimouslyapproved.

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Kelly

32

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

CL/108/17.11.25

The clerk informed the Council that not many payments were on the report, as the Council has now moved to an online system whereby two councillors have to log-in to the bank to authorise payments and some of them had had problems logging in. 

The Treasurer’s report was received and unanimously approved.

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

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

CL/109/17.11.25

Cllr Owen reported that in the recent scrutiny meeting, he asked why so few Plaid Cymru councillors attended, when they are paid £20,000 to attend two or three meetings a year, but he did not receive a satisfactory answer. 

Gwynedd Council have reported that more people are buying second homes and the number of self-lets have decreased, with more being managed by letting agencies. It is suspected that many people are using a loophole by claiming that their house is a primary residence when in fact it is not the case.

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

CL/110/17.11.25

The Clerk reported on the following:

* CCTV on the wharf

The harbourmaster confirmed that cameras will be put up around the harbourmaster’s building and surrounding area of the wharf gardens, though this will probably not happen until the new building is in place. 

* Business grants

The clerk has been unable to find any information on grants available for businesses but will continue to research

* Digital Noticeboard

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

* Kite festival

Red Dragon Kites are thrilled to know funding is in place for the festival next year. It is intended to do all the paperwork over the winter.

* TAITH Community Transport

A public meeting was held on the 13^th November and was very well attended, with many people signing up to become volunteers and be involved. It is hoped the scheme might be able to be up and running early in the New Year.

* CCTV in Neuadd Dyfi car park

The local Crime Prevention Officer dropped in to see the clerk and while there advised her that the best option for the car park is a wildlife camera and signs

33

saying covert cameras in operation. 

Action: Clerk to research cost and put on agenda for discussion

* Angel Shark Project

There will be a presentation on the project on 26^th November at the Neuadd Dyfi. Clerk is waiting for posters to advertise.

* Equipment stored in the Neuadd Dyfi car park

Payment has been received and the equipment will be removed early December

* Risk Management Policy

Clerk is waiting for a reply as to whether the environment needs to be included in the Risk Assessment Schedule

Clerk is waiting for a reply from RoSPA regarding disclaimer notices and inspection regimes

* Playground refurbishment

Delivery to the UK should be this week and as soon as it has cleared customs, it will be delivered to Aberdyfi. The workers are on standby and will start as soon as it is delivered.

* Skip

Has been booked for 6^th/7^th December.

* Dwr Cymru

Dwr Cymru came to inspect the equipment at the allotments and it was found not to be compliant, as the hose-pipe was not off the ground, it was not lagged and there was no non-return valve installed. We have 28 days to comply and the clerk is just waiting for the valve to be installed. 

* Community Transport webinar by One Voice Wales

The clerk reported that she had been asked to attend a recent webinar to tell other councils about our community transport scheme. 

* Trees in main car park

The clerk has been informed that three of the trees planted last year have died, but Roman Hackelsberger has offered to pay for replacements, if we organise to plant them.

Action: Clerk to reply with thanks and to arrange for trees to be bought / delivered. 

Action: Councillors to organise planting of trees 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/111/17.11.25

None received

Three members of BCUHB joined the meeting at this point.

34

AGENDA ITEM 19 – To receive a presentation from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board on the future of Tywyn Hospital Dyfi Ward

CL/112/17.11.25

A short presentation summarising the process so far and the options being considered as a result of the two balanced rooms was received. The councillors each gave their feedback on the options. 

Three members of BCUHB left the meeting at this point.

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To review and approve S6 Biodiversity report

CL/113/17.11.25

It was noted that Cllr Porter had attended training on this subject. The clerk reported that Cllr Porter had a copy of the updated report for Aberdyfi Community Council before the training and she informed the Clerk afterwards that the updated report fulfils the council’s obligations under S6. 

Cllr H. Williams suggested that more work could be done in this area and it was discussed that Resources 4 Change, NRW and EcoDyfi could be approached to see if they have any suggestions on how we could improve our biodiversity report, especially as Aberdyfi is within the Dyfi Biosphere. 

It was agreed to submit the report as it stands and to review it after feedback from the different agencies is received.

Action: Clerk to contact R4C, NRW and EcoDyfi.

Action: Clerk to submit the S6 Biodiversity report.

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To ratify decision to pay Gwynedd Council £200 to open main toilets on Christmas and Boxing Day

CL/114/17.11.25

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

Action: Clerk to arrange payment

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider quotes for repairing fence of playing fields

CL/115/17.11.25

The clerk reported that she had been approached by another contractor after the agenda had been published and she recommended postponing this agenda item to next month, in order for the council to be able to consider three quotes.

It was agreed to follow her advice

Action: Clerk to put on agenda for next month

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider quotes to fence in and roof the bin compound by the fire station

CL/116/17.11.25

The clerk reported that she had been approached by another contractor after the agenda had been published and she recommended postponing this agenda item to next month, in order for the council to be able to consider three quotes.

It was agreed to follow her advice

Action: Clerk to put on agenda for next month

35

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider quotes for repairing the cupboard doors in the shelter beside the main toilets

CL/117/17.11.25

The clerk reported that she had been approached by another contractor after the agenda had been published and she recommended postponing this agenda item to next month, in order for the council to be able to consider three quotes.

It was agreed to follow her advice

Action: Clerk to put on agenda for next month

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To review and approve training plan

CL/118/17.11.25

The training plan was approved and the clerk reiterated that the Council is required to ensure it has wide knowledge base to enable it to make effective and informed decisions. 

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To approve funding for signs at Picnic Island

CL/119/17.11.25

The clerk reported that the harbourmaster has found some suitable signs, at a cost of approximately £200, and has asked if the council might pay for them if they affix them. It was suggested that, as Picnic Island is under the jurisdiction of the maritime department of Gwynedd Council, they should pay for the signs. It was agreed for Cllr Owen to speak to the maritime department.

Action: Cllr Owen to speak to maritime department of Gwynedd Council 

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

CL/120/17.11.25

* Cambrian Coast Railway Liaison meeting – request for discussion topics

* Support sought from a resident for a proposed soap-box derby to be held in the village. It was agreed to support the event, though there were some reservations regarding the date and road closure.

Action: Clerk to reply to resident.

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

CL/121/17.11.25

* One Voice Wales – Joint OVW / SLCC event 12^th November

* Gwynedd Council – St David’s Day 2026 Pilot Support Fund

* One Voice Wales – Local resolution Protocol webinars

* One Voice Wales – Consultation on changes to local government election rules in Wales

* Gwynedd Council – New off-street parking order

* Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru – draft annual remuneration report

AGENDA ITEM 19– Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/122/17.11.25

* Quotes for repair works

36

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

CL/123/17.11.25

* Christmas tree lights

* Clwb Sgwrsio 1^st December

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next meeting

CL/124/17.11.25

Monday 15^th December

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

37

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 20^th October 2025

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

Cllr Henry Williams

3 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/85/20.10.25

Apologies were received and accepted from Cllr Dunton

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/86/20.10.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and commented that the weather has been kind recently.

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

CL/87/20.10.25

Cllr Bradbury-Willis declared an interest in the planning application of Hafan Deg.

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

CL/88/20.10.25

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

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis  Seconded: Cllr Kelly

It was asked if Dŵr Cymru intend to replace the whole pipe between Aberdyfi and Tywyn, as there was another burst water main this week. It was also asked if Dŵr Cymru intend to re-seed Morfa Gypsies after the recent work there.

Action: Clerk to contact Dŵr Cymru

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

CL/89/20.10.25

The Treasurer’s report was received and unanimously approved.

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Hewins

24

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To review budget and expenditure

CL/90/20.10.25

The expenditure and budget were reviewed and it was noted that there may be an underspend this year.

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/91/20.10.25

Cllr Owen reported on the following:

Harbour Consultative Committee meeting

* The harbour staff have all been working hard this summer and things have run very smoothly this year. From next year, they will all be wearing body-cameras, as they have been subjected to abusive behaviour this year.

* New CCTV cameras will be installed in the wharf area

Action: Clerk to liaise with them about location of CCTV cameras as the Council cameras cover some of the wharf

* The investigation into the jet-ski incident last year is still ongoing

* It is envisaged that the plans for the new harbour office will be available by March next year. Cllr Owen will bring them to the council meeting when they are available.

* The timbers on the jetty will be replaced over the winter at an estimated cost of £50k – £100k. It is thought a grant will be available to cover the cost.

* £2,000 was spent recently clearing the sand from the slipway area

* Some activities over the summer were cancelled due to the weather, which was disappointing

* Mooring numbers have been increasing over the last few years: 2023/24=73 moorings, 2024/25=79, 2025/26=83

* Number of launches of jet-skis and motorboats increased by 10% this year.

* Cllr Owen asked if information about water quality could be made available to the public on a regular basis. This is available on NRW website: https://environment.data.gov.uk/wales/bathing-waters/profiles/

Cllr O’Neill asked about the yellowish foam sometimes seen and it was noted that these are naturally occurring and are not dangerous. It was noted that there have been several incidents of dead animals being washed up on the beach this year.

Gwynedd Council Economy Committee

*The Welsh Government have been allocated £550 million for development of the economy, a portion of which will come to Gwynedd. It will be spent on helping businesses to expand and creation of new businesses, in the form of grants.

Action: Clerk to find more information about the grants and put in Rushlight.

* Trawsfynydd is being reduced in size by half and will employ another 100 people on top of the current 350 employed there. It is envisaged to be competed by 2028.

Cllr Owen expressed his concern about THG (formerly Halo, Brighter Foods), as he has been informed that they are employing people from Newtown to supplement the workers in Tywyn, which could jeopardise the future of the factory.

Action: Clerk / Chair to discuss with Tywyn Town Council 

Cllr Owen reported that the Trefeddian Hotel has been sold. 

25

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive and approve a report from the Clerk

CL/92/20.10.25

The Clerk reported on the following:

* Voting procedures at council meetings

A complaint about the method of voting during the co-option at the last council meeting was received from a resident. The clerk researched the legislation but could find no reference to voting needing to be done by show of hands, so contacted One Voice Wales. They could not find any legislation either, but their lawyer recommended that voting should be by show of hands, so the clerk advised the council that all voting in future will be done by show of hands. 

* Consultation on the future of Dyfi Ward

The clerk reported that she had been involved in the two balanced room meetings conducted by BCUHB as part of their public consultation on the future of Dyfi Ward and explained the process so far. She explained that the attendees were drawn from many different local organisations such as the local councils, Gwynedd Council, care and nursing homes, Carer’s Outreach Service, GPs and Tywyn hospital Action Group. She explained that the attendees were the ones who had made all the decisions and that BCUHB were not allowed to contribute, other than to facilitate and record the responses. At the first balanced room meeting, a long list of options was created and then measured against criteria such as efficiency and effectiveness, resulting in a medium list of 5 options. BCUHB then consulted with different groups such as the Community Council and other local groups. At the second balanced meeting the same attendees created a list of criteria they wanted to measure against the medium list, based on the community aspect. They ranked these criteria in order of importance, then measured the 5 options against the criteria, resulting in an order of preference of the 5 options. BCUHB have taken this information, will measure them against cost etc. and will return to the councils and community groups in November to gather more feedback. All the information, feedback and ranked options will be presented to the Board who will make a decision in January. 

The clerk stressed that at no time was BCUHB involved in the decision-making and reported that the options which didn’t involve reopening of the ward included provision for people who need a step-down bed to be accommodated in local care and nursing homes. 

The clerk also gave some information from the recent meeting:

* Treatment room was opened in July 2023 and has seen over 4876 people to July 2025 and has been staffed by nurses redeployed when the ward was temporarily closed. The treatment room provides services such as wound care, blood tests, catheter management, IV treatments etc. This facility has freed up District Nurses to concentrate on house-bound patients and other duties.

* Minor Injuries is currently open 8am-8pm 5 days a week and has seen 7680 people in the last 2 years. 

* Tuag Adref provides support and rehab at home following discharge and supports patients to remain at home, avoiding hospital admissions. It has had 175 new referrals in the last 2 years and resulted in 72 patients remaining at home and not

26

needing admission to hospital, with the other 103 being referred from Bronglais, BCUHB and social services. On average it has been supporting 11 patients with an average of 328 visits carried out per month. 

* Both Bronglais and Ysbyty Gwynedd have a ward for people ready for discharge but who do not have a care package in place.

* When Dyfi Ward was open, it was occupied not only with patients from Tywyn, but also with people as far away as Bangor.

* Digital Noticeboard

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

* Kite festival

Red Dragon Kites have confirmed they are very keen to come back next year but will need to charge £1500for their services. 

It was agreed to ask the AA&I if they would cover this cost.

Action: Clerk to write to the AA&I

It was agreed the council would cover the other costs as previously agreed, such as matting, banners, hire of hall and sundries

* Food festival

The clerk met with the organisers to review this year’s festival and they are keen to run it next year, as it was much easier to manage this year. The music marquee worked well, the hay bales worked well and the provision of more bins meant there was minimal litter. It was agreed that parasols would be a good addition. The festival is now so popular that the organisers feel able to make it a by invitation events and not have any local shops there. Instead, leaflets could be made with details of local shops and outlets, encouraging people to visit them – maybe a food trail. It was agreed that food sellers should not sell drinks and vice-versa. It was suggested that local restaurants etc. could do a food festival special. It was noted some stall holders had trouble using their payment machines and it was agreed the clerk would look into this.

Spend this year: £4,134, income: £3,205

It was agreed to ask the AA&I for a donation to cover the shortfall.

Action: Clerk to request the council to buy parasols

Action: Clerk to research boosting wi-fi / connectivity of food festival field

Action: Create leaflet / food trail of local businesses

Action: Clerk to write to AA&I

* TAITH Community transport scheme

There is a public meeting at the Neuadd Dyfi on November 13^th, 2pm-4pm for everyone to learn about the proposed community transport scheme and seek volunteers.

* Osprey sculpture

The clerk has not heard back from the sculptor. Cllr Hewins volunteered to see how it could be reattached.

Action: Cllr Hewins to research how to reattach the tail

27

* CCTV

The fourth camera has been installed at the Neuadd Dyfi, covering the lane down the side of the Post Office building. The clerk advised the Community Project Group to install their own CCTV system. The area of the Neuadd Dyfi car park by the path to Rhos Dyfi is not covered by CCTV and it was agreed to add installing CCTV in this area to the agenda for next month. 

Action: Clerk to research possibilities and add to agenda

* Alcohol licences

Clerk spoke to the licencing officer at Gwynedd Council and was advised that there is no limit on the number of alcohol licences that are able to be granted and that it is entirely up to the licencing committee whether to grant a licence. There are no criteria for deciding and even if the licencing officer recommends not granting a licence, the committee can still grant a licence. A licence would normally only be rejected if there is clear evidence of eg. a health and safety issue or if the applicant has a criminal record or similar. 

* Angel Shark project

Charlie Bartlett has been taking researchers out over the summer to survey the local Angel Shark population and the researchers now plan to present their findings locally in the next few months. 

* Equipment stored in Neuadd Dyfi car park 

There is some equipment currently being stored in the Neuadd Dyfi car park by Wales & West Utility Services, who are replacing the gas main in the square. Earlier in the year they also used the Neuadd car park and the clerk has just signed an agreement for them to pay £1,500 to cover the storage for these two periods. 

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/93/20.10.25

NP5/50/776 7 Pen-y-Ffordd, Aberdyfi LL35 0PL

Creation of parking area, vehicular access and construction of retaining walls

No objections raised

NP5/50/781 Hafan Deg, Hopeland Road, Aberdyfi LL35 0NH

Alterations and extensions

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To consider and approve design for interpretation boards

CL/94/20.10.25

The design was approved 

Action: Clerk to arrange for boards to be produced

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To review and approve Risk Management Policy and Risk Assessment Schedule

CL/95/20.10.25

The Risk Management Policy and Risk Assessment Schedule were approved with the

28

qualifications mentioned below.

Cllr Hewins queried if the playground equipment needs to be inspected every week, especially once the new equipment is installed. It was agreed for the clerk to ask RoSPA for their recommendation. 

Cllr H. Williams queried if there should be a section on the environment on the Risk Assessment Schedule. The clerk reported that the council is required to do a S6 Biodiversity Report every 3 years which is reviewed on a yearly basis and she will find out if there should be a section on the environment included in the schedule. Cllr H. Williams suggested the Council regularly review the water quality report of NRW. 

Cllr Hewins queried if the playground should have disclaimer signs displayed. It was agreed for the clerk to research this and report.

Action: Clerk to find out if the environment needs to be included in the Risk Assessment Schedule

Action: Clerk to contact RoSPA

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider appointing a councillor to be a member of the Governors of Ysgol Penybryn

CL/96/20.10.25

Cllr Henry Williams volunteered to take up the position.

Action: Clerk to contact Ysgol Penybryn

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider and approve size of skip and date for installation for village use

CL/97/20.10.25

The council agreed that the largest size should be ordered at a cost of £518 and it should be placed in the Neuadd Dyfi car park on 6/7 December. It was agreed when advertising that the list of items not accepted be made very clear and a sign be placed on the skip itself. It should also be made clear that no commercial waste will be accepted. It should also be collected as soon as possible after the 7^th December

Proposed: Cllr D. Williams Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Action: Clerk to arrange.

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider quotes for hedging for football field

CL/98/20.10.25

It was agreed to purchase 100 mixed hedging 60/90cm bare root plants at a cost of £120. Cllr O’Neill asked if tree protectors should also be purchased. Cllr Porter responded that she may have some. It was agreed to purchase protectors if Cllr

Porter does not have any

Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Action: Clerk to arrange

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

CL/99/20.10.25

* Request from resident for meetings to be recorded and uploaded to the internet or live-streamed.

29

Resident offered the use of a router to allow meetings to be streamed until the Institute has installed their own internet. It was agreed to take up the offer and live-stream meetings going forward

Action: Clerk to arrange

* Request from Network Rail to install signs at Picnic Island

It was agreed that signs need to be installed at Picnic island, informing people that they have reached it, though as Picnic Island comes under maritime control, it needs to be arranged by the harbourmaster. 

Action: Clerk to liaise with the harbourmaster arrange

* Request from Digital Public Services researcher to attend a council meeting to discuss improving digital planning services in Wales.

It was agreed to ask him to attend a council meeting

Action: Clerk to arrange

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

CL/100/20.10.25

* One Voice Wales – Biodiversity Action Plan webinars

* One Voice Wales – Training courses September – December 2025

* DBCC (Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru)– Draft Annual Remuneration Report 2026-27

* Parc Eryri – Information session about the work of the Parc, Betws y Coed

* One Voice Wales – Keep Wales Tidy webinars

* Bangor University – request for information for research project on intangible cultural heritage

* Cambrian Coast Railway Liaison meeting – request for discussion topics

* Gwynedd Council – notice of Event Safety webinar

* One Voice Wales – briefing paper on Making Wales a nation of Age-Friendly Communities

* Prifysgol Aberystwyth – Coastal Community Resilience open evening

AGENDA ITEM 17– Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/101/20.10.25

* BCUHB attending next meeting regarding future of Dyfi Ward

* Cambrian Coast Railway meeting -request for topics

* Speed monitoring in the village

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

CL/102/20.10.25

* How to report to police

* Neuadd Dyfi upcoming events

* Christmas Fair

* Remembrance Sunday

* Fireworks

* TAITH meeting

* Beach cleans

* Picnic Island warning

30

* Time & Tide Bell audio trail launch

* Clwb Sgwrsio

* Gwynedd business grants

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next meeting

CL/103/20.10.25

Monday 17^th November

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

31

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 15^th September 2025

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

4 members of the public and 4 representatives from Betsi Cadwaldr University Health Board were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/65/15.09.25

Apologies were received and accepted from Cllrs Dunton and Porter

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/66/15.09.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and noted that in June everyone was hoping for rain and now everyone is hoping it will stop. He noted that after a slow start to the tourist season, August was very busy in the village.

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

CL/67/15.09.25

Cllr Kelly declared an interest in agenda item 15 and Cllr Grundy declared an interest in agenda item 10 regarding the planning application for To Glas. 

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To co-opt a new councillor

CL/68/15.09.25

The clerk reported that she had advertised for an election as agreed, but as no request for an election had been received, the council were given permission to co-opt a councillor. She advertised for co-option and two applications had been received.

A motion was proposed to suspend Standing Orders for this item to allow a private vote. Motion was unanimously approved.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins  Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Mr Henry Williams was voted in as councillor and his declaration of acceptance of office was signed and received by the council. He participated as councillor for the remainder of the meeting.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive a presentation from representatives of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board regarding Dyfi Ward in Tywyn hospital 

CL/69/15.09.25

The representatives explained that the reason the ward was temporarily closed was

18

entirely down to staffing issues and not financial problems and they were now seeking a formal solution in consultation with the community. They explained that they have held workshops with representatives from the local community where a long list of different options was drawn up by those in attendance, then the list was measured against various criteria to produce a medium list and this is where the process is currently. They are keen to receive as much input from the community as possible to establish what the community wants. They reported that the minor injuries unit (MIU), Treatment Room and Tuag Adref (Towards Home) scheme that has been put in place since the ward closed have been really successful and well-used. They have been trying to recruit correctly qualified nurses, but there has been a problem both in recruiting and retaining nurses, as while the nurses have jobs, there are few job opportunities for their families in the local area and housing has also been an issue. However, the nurses working in MIU and the Treatment Room have been gaining further qualifications to allow them to treat a wider range of conditions which has been welcomed and successful.

They received feedback from the council that the community is very keen for the ward to reopen in some form so that people do not have to travel to Dolgellau or Aberystwyth to see ill or palliative patients and it was noted that re-enablement would be of great benefit if it could be incorporated. 

They informed the council that the medium list will be reduced to a short list by the community representatives and BCUHB will then re-visit all the groups and councils to discuss the shortlist, hopefully in October / November. It is envisaged that the BCUHB Board will then make a final decision in January. 

The BCUHB representatives and one member of the public left the meeting at this point.

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 21^st July2025

CL/70/15.09.25

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 21^st July 2025 were received and unanimously approved.

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr D. Williams

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

CL/71/15.09.25

The Treasurer’s report was received and unanimously approved.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly  Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive a report from the Clerk

CL/72/15.09.25

The Clerk report the following:

* Digital Noticeboard

The clerk had a site visit with Gwynedd Council Buildings Maintenance Officer and he gave his approval for a digital noticeboard sited where the white noticeboard is currently. He gave his approval for Phil Pugh to do the electrical work, as he is an approved supplier for Gwynedd Council. The Clerk has tried to contact Phil Pugh to

19

have a site visit to confirm that the electricity supply is adequate and discuss how to connect to the noticeboard, but he was on holiday so she is waiting for him to contact her.

Action: Clerk to contact Phil Pugh again and meet with him and the toilet cleaner to gain access to the electricity supply which is in the men’s toilets.

* Kite festival

The clerk met with the organiser of the festival and it was agreed that both the council and the kite flyers are keen to have another festival next year. 

For next year it was proposed: 

*The harbourmaster should not be asked to supply a quad bike and trailer, instead we would ask someone else if they could help out with this. 

* Matting is needed and the boardwalk needs to be cleared of sand prior to the event.

* The event should be advertised much more widely and banners should be bought to help with this.

* Workshops to be repeated but possibly one on Friday evening and one on Saturday morning.

* Ask if it is possible for the flyers to have a contribution towards expenses.

Action: Clerk to speak to harbourmaster to gain feedback and confirm their help will not be needed next year.

Action: Council to seek quad bike, trailer and driver 

Action: Clerk to obtain quotes for matting

Action: Clerk to advertise event more widely and purchase banners

Action: Council to consider expenses closer to the time

* Food festival

The clerk is arranging to meet with the organisers to review this year’s festival. It was noted that some stall holders struggled to take card payments so a solution will need to be investigated.

* Playground refurbishment

The clerk reported that she has formally appointed Elevate Play as contractors and after receiving some of the funding from the National Lottery, paid the deposit. The equipment should be delivered mid-October but may take a week or two to clear customs, so work should start at the beginning of November. It was noted that the swings and toddler’s climbing frame will need to be painted before then

Action: Cllrs Hewins and Dunton to paint the two pieces of playground equipment

* Youth Club

Gwynedd Council have advertised for two youth worker posts but it is not known if anyone has been appointed.

* Gwynedd Council grants

The clerk reported that she applied for a grant from Gwynedd Council and was successful in obtaining £5,000 for bilingual interpretation boards for the playground.

She obtained two quotes.

Action: Clerk to obtain design from each applicant and take to council at next meeting.

* Handrail on path from Penhelig to Hillside Village

The railings have been replaced and that the steps will be repaired in the near future

20

* Path from Lover’s Lane to Gwelfor Road past Bryniau Uchaf

The path will be repaired this month

* New water main

Work has started on installing a new water main along the length of Morfa Gypsies

* Christmas Fair

The clerk has started organising the fair which will be on 22^nd November in the Neuadd Dyfi, 10am-1pm. There are 2 stalls left.

* Osprey sculpture

A portion of the bird’s tail has broken off. The clerk has the missing piece and has emailed the sculptor to ask his advice on how best to reattach it.

* Suspicious behaviour

The clerk reported seeing three young men acting suspiciously outside the Neuadd Dyfi last week and reported it to the police. Two of the young men were seen sitting in the Neuadd Dyfi car park a few days later and when approached by a member of the public, they said they were smoking a spliff. The police again stressed the importance of reporting everything that looks suspicious, even if people don’t think they have any ‘evidence’ – it may be the link the police need to form a narrative and pattern of behaviour. 

It was agreed to install the last CCTV camera at the Neuadd Dyfi and to have the work done on the cameras on the wharf as soon as possible. 

Action: Clerk to arrange works

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To note new salary scales from NALC

CL/73/15.09.25

The new salary scales were noted

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/74/15.09.25

NP5/50/400G Land to rear of Greenhill Bungalow, Aberdyfi LL35 0HF

Amended description and plans:

Construction of 1 detached shed to store equipment and machinery 

No objections raised

NP5/50/629E Bryn Coed, Aberdyfi, LL35 0PU

Alterations, extensions and the formation of a parking and turning area, including associated building, retaining and landscaping operations in connection with short-term let (Use Class C6)

No objections raised

NP5/50/10Q Outward Bound Centre, Aberdyfi LL35 0RA

Formation of staff car park, minibus parking area, retaining structures, stairs, footpath, revised junction geometry, access road regrading, access road and car park surfacing, barriers, lighting, landscape and associated works

No objections raised

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

Replacement of existing dormer windows, removal and replacement of existing 2 storey outrigger and new extension to rear

No objections raised

21

NP5/50/547A To Glas, Rhoslan, Aberdyfi LL35 0NS

Amended plans and description:

Engineering works including the erection of retaining walls, building to house a lift.

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider quote to replace cupboard doors in shelter by main toilets

CL/75/15.09.25

The council requested more quotes for the works and to specify accoya or hardwood.

Action: Clerk to seek more quotes

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider quote to repair fencing around the playing field

CL/76/15.09.25

It was noted that the quote is just for railings but some posts also need repaired, so it was agreed to ask for a revised quote.

Action: Clerk to request revised quote

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider quote for work to fence in and roof the bin compound by the fire station

CL/77/15.09.25

The council requested more quotes, based on using larch for the fencing work.

Action: Clerk to seek more quotes

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider approving more memorial benches on SeaView Terrace

CL/78/15.09.25

The council agreed that no more benches should be sited along SeaView Terrace but it was noted that some of them had been moved, so it was agreed to spread out the existing benches

Action: Councillors to spread out existing benches

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To consider funding for the proposed community transport scheme

CL/79/15.09.25

The clerk reported that a small amount of seed funding will be required initially for the scheme, for DBS checks for the drivers, mobile phones for the coordinators and to pay for dead mileage for drivers. The clerk is hoping that Gwynedd Council will provide this funding, as it is very keen to see the scheme succeed and be a pilot to enable it to be rolled out across the rest of Gwynedd. If Gwynedd is not able to fund it, the different councils may be asked to fund it amongst them. The council agreed to this in principle.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

22

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

CL/80/15.09.25

* Complaint from resident about fence on east side of allotments

It was noted that the contractors doing work on the allotment retaining wall have requested access through that area and it was agreed to ask if this was agreeable to the resident, with the reassurance that no heavy plant will be used and the fence will be reinstated in a better state once the work is completed. The clerk reported that the tree which had been cut down in the allotments has started growing again so she is waiting for a meeting and quote to clear that area of the allotments.

Action: Clerk to reply to resident.

Action: Clerk to arrange for the vegetation in that area of allotments to be cut back and cleared 

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

CL/81/15.09.25

* Awel y Mor Offshore Wind Farm newsletter

AGENDA ITEM 18– Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/82/15.09.25

* Review of Community Needs Survey

* Criteria for approving alcohol licences

* Quote for skip and set date

* Quote for replanting hedge on football field

* Design for interpretation boards

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

CL/83/15.09.25

* How to report to police

* Neuadd Dyfi upcoming events

* Christmas Fair

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next meeting

CL/84/15.09.25

Monday 20^th October

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9pm

23

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 21^st July 2025

Present: Cllr Ian Hewins – Vice Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Anna Grundy

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

3 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/47/21.07.25

Apologies received and accepted from Cllrs Bradbury-Willis and Owen

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/48/21.07.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and welcomed Cllr Anna Grundy to her first meeting as Councillor. He offered the council’s help at any time should she need it. 

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

CL/49/21.07.25

No declarations were received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To co-opt a new councillor

CL/50/21.07.25

The clerk reported that she had received a complaint from a resident that the advertisement for election for the current councillor vacancy had not been displayed properly. As it is impossible to prove whether it had or not, she recommended that the vacancy be re-advertised. The Councillors agreed that this is the best way forward. 

Action: Clerk to request notice from Gwynedd Council election office and display for the required time.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 16^thJune 2025

CL/51/21.07.25

The minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting on 16^th June 2025 were received and unanimously approved.

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Kelly

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

CL/52/21.07.25

13

Th Treasurer’s report was received and unanimously approved.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To discuss the future of Tywyn Hospital with a representative from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board

CL/53/21.07.25

The Clerk reported that she had been informed that BCUHB would not be sending a representative to the meeting and would set an alternative date to meet with the council. It was noted that there is currently an online survey being circulated by BCUHB which the Clerk has shared on social media and there is a planned meeting in Tywyn that the Community Council will be invited to. 

Action: Clerk to set a date for the council to meet with BCUHB and inform councillors of the date of the meeting in Tywyn.

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive a report from the Clerk

CL/54/21.07.25

The Clerk report the following:

* Digital Noticeboard

The clerk has still to find an electrical source 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council estates department

* Large Macrocarpa Tree

The Clerk reported that more branches have been removed from the tree

* Main car park contributions to the Community Council

The Clerk is still waiting for a reply from Gwynedd Council about the contributions. 

* 2024/25 Audit

This year we had a full audit and the clerk reported that it took her a whole week of work to compile all the documents for the auditors. Next year will be a basic audit so will not be as much work. 

* Sink holes in pavement

Small sink holes have been appearing in the pavement by the main car park. Gwynedd Highways have been working with Dwr Cymru to investigate and they think the holes have been caused because the drains are choked with sand so are not working properly and as a result, the water is draining under the pavement and washing away the underlying substrate. The holes have been repaired.

* Extension of timber work on sea-front

The harbourmaster would like to extend the timber work on the seafront to stop the sand encroaching onto the promenade and want to know if the council has any objections. The Council agreed that they had no objection at all to the work being done.

Action: Clerk to inform the harbourmaster that the council has no objections

* Gas works welfare unit on Neuadd Dyfi car park

The Clerk reported that there is a welfare unit in the Neuadd Dyfi car park and she has had a message to say that they are working in Rhoslan and will pay £100 per week for the rent of the space. They should be finished at the end of July.

Action: Clerk to invoice for costs

* Transport questionnaire

The clerk reported that there is a questionnaire currently being circulated to

14

establish if there is a need for community transport in the area. Copies can be found in the Post Office, Institute and Neuadd Dyfi and encouraged as many people as possible to fill it in. 

* Kite festival

The Kite Festival was deemed to be a great success with a lot of positive feedback from different quarters. There will be a review meeting with the Community Council, harbourmaster and kite flyers in the near future. It was noted that some of the kite-flyers struggled to move their kites onto the beach because of the sand and it was suggested that next year we hire matting to help with this problem. It was also noted that the potential parking issues did not materialise. Feedback was received that the festival had not been advertised widely enough and the clerk reported that some people came from Cemmaes to the kite-making workshops, which was unexpected, so next year advertising more widely needs to be considered. 

Action: Clerk and councillors to attend review meeting and report back

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/55/21.07.25

NP5/50/439H Ty Carreg, Aberdyfi LL35 0LE

Retrospective application to regularise works not in accordance with planning permission NP5/50/439A dated 24/01/2023 including single storey extension to South elevation, alterations to North and East elevations, external roofing & cladding alterations, new retaining wall & addition of Juliet balcony.

It was felt that this is a very large project and the Council felt disappointed that it had not sought full planning permission before works started. It was agreed to write with these comments.

Action: Clerk to write to Parc Eryri

NP5/50/10P Ty Bryn Eithin, Outward Bound, Aberdyfi LL35 0RA

Installation of UPVC windows

No objections raised

NP5/50/165C Glygyrog Ddu, Aberdyfi

Enforcement notice Appeal

It was agreed that the Council have no objections to the work that has been done and it was resolved to respond with this.

Action: Clerk to write to Parc Eryri

NP5/50/165C To Glas, Rhoslan, Aberdyfi LL35 0NS

Amended plans

Cllr Grundy declared an interest in this item

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To receive and review 2025 RoSPA report

CL/56/21.07.25

It was noted that no urgent work is needed as a result of the report, though it was noted that the swings and toddler’s climbing frame are still to be painted. It was also noted that the ‘No Dogs’ signs do not comply with RoSPA recommendations and it was resolved to replace the signs with compatible ones. 

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

Action: Clerk to purchase compatible signs

15

Action: Cllrs Hewins and Dunton to paint toddler’s climbing frame and swings in early September

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To delegate powers to the Chair and Clerk until September meeting

CL/57/21.07.25

It was unanimously agreed to delegate council powers to the Chair and Clerk until the September meeting

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To approve design for the playground and appoint a contractor

CL/58/21.07.25

It was resolved to approve the design from Elevate Play, pending further information regarding the build quality of the equipment. Cllrs Hewins and Dunton requested the clerk to find the closest playground with equipment from the same manufacturer with a view to possibly visiting the playground. 

Action: Clerk to contact Elevate Play and forward the information onto councillors

Action: Clerk to appoint contractors once Cllrs Hewin and Dunton have given their approval.

Action: Clerk to complete claims forms for National Lottery grant once contractors have been appointed

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To discuss funding a youth club in Aberdyfi

CL/59/21.07.25

The clerk reported that she had met with Gwynedd Council, who confirmed that they will organise the club and recruit and train a youth worker and the Community Council only need to provide funding at £6096 for 30 weeks. It was unanimously resolved to provide the funding.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council and arrange payment when required

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

CL/60/21.07.25

* One Voice Wales – notice of Extra Ordinary meeting on Wednesday 3^rd September where one councillor is required to attend. 

Action: Clerk to redistribute information about the meeting via email and ask for a volunteer

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

CL/61/21.07.25

* Gwynedd Council – notice of Town / Community Council fund deadline.

The clerk reported that the fund is up to £5,000 and she could apply for some funding for interpretation boards for the village, though the deadline is 31^st July so she was unsure if she had time. It was agreed to apply if she could find the time. 

Action: Clerk to apply if possible

16

AGENDA ITEM 16– Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/62/21.07.25

* Review of Community Needs Survey

* Review of long-term rail timetable changes

* Possibility of installing solar benches

* Motorhome parking on Morfa Gypsies

* Creation of Aberdyfi archive

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

CL/63/21.07.25

* Kite festival success

* Food Festival 17 August

* DoveyFest 23/24/25 August 

* Councillor vacancy

* Transport questionnaire

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Date of next meeting

CL/64/21.07.25

Monday 15^th September

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.25pm

17

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 16^th June 2025

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/27/16.06.25

No apologies received

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/28/16.06.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and commented that while the current dry and warm weather will bring visitors to the village, there are a lot of farmers and others who still need rain. He reported that the annual village meeting was well attended and the presentation by the police was particularly well received. He thanked all the councillors for the work they do on behalf of the council for the village. He also congratulated Louis Hiatt on receiving the British Empire Medal in the King’s Honours List for his services to the Fire Service and it was agreed to write to Louis congratulating him on his achievement. 

Action: Clerk to write to Louis Hiatt

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

CL/29/16.06.25

No declarations were received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To co-opt a new councillor

CL/30/16.06.25

Anna Grundy was co-opted as councillor

Action: Clerk to contact all applicants thanking them for their interest 

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Annual Council meeting on 13^th May2025

CL/31/16.06.25

The minutes of the Annual Council Meeting on 13^th May 2025 were received and approved.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

8

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

CL/32/16.06.25

It was resolved to receive and approve the Treasurer’s report

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/33/16.06.25

Cllr Owen reported that Gwynedd Council are going to request that all 64 Community and Town Councils do some training on Code of Conduct. They envisage remote training that will take approximately one hour and they will write the training package. 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive a report from the Clerk

CL/34/16.06.25

The Clerk report the following:

* Kite Festival

The Clerk reported that St John’s Ambulance finally replied to her 3 days ago and told her they cannot supply any first aiders for the festival. Cllr Hewins volunteered to be a nominated first-aider at the festival and Cllr Williams offered to ask the Mountain Rescue Team if they might be willing to attend. The Council agreed to make a donation to the MR Team if they were able to do it. 

Action: Cllr Williams to ask if the MR Team would attend as first-aiders 

* Playground project

The Clerk has received an email from the National Lottery asking to confirm that an accessible roundabout will be included in the final project.

* Digital Noticeboard

The clerk has met with the toilet maintenance team as the main electricity supply for that area is in the toilets. There is no plug socket there so she will contact the electrical team of Gwynedd Council to see if it will be possible to link into the network.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council estates department

* Little Book Stop

Our application was unsuccessful

* Football field

The Clerk met with Dwr Cymru and the Golf Club last week about the damage done by Dwr Cymru when they fixed the burst water main along the side of the football field. They informed her they have a wayleave along that stretch and they have the right to remove anything that might damage the water main, but they do not have to replace it afterwards. They told her that they would not object to the Community Council reinstating the hedge there and will put this in writing. They will remove all the waste wood as well as the broken water-pipes and other rubbish that was left and make good the damage done to the entrance to the field and in the golf club car park. It was agreed to add replacement of the hedge to the agenda in the autumn.

Action: Clerk to add hedge replacement to agenda in the autumn

9

* Large Macrocarpa Tree

The Clerk met with Sean Wilkes of highways and he informed her that the large tree is due to be surveyed again early in 2026.

* Main car park contributions to the Community Council

The Clerk reported that this year’s income from the main car park was just £2,866 while last year it was £5,214 and the previous year it was £7,798. Gwynedd Council have provided the figures for these calculations, as we receive 10% of the total income, but they told her that our contribution towards public services, Neuadd Dyfi and Y Cei has increased from £6,000 to £8,000 last year. The Clerk has queried this and asked for a specific breakdown of what public services this covers. 

* Who is responsible

The Clerk shared a document she has created, showing the different responsibilities of the Community Council, Gwynedd Council and other organisations in the village, together with what to do if there is a problem. She encouraged councillors to share this information with residents and reminded them that her job is to implement the decisions of the Council as a whole and it is not her role to act on instructions from individual councillors and residents. 

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/35/16.06.25

NP5/50/8D 4 Penhelyg, Aberdyfi LL35 0PT

Change of Use from guest house (C1) to dwellinghouse (C3)

No additional evidence to add

NP5/50/750A 25 Mynydd Isaf, Aberdyfi LL35 0PH

Extensions and alterations

No objections raised

NP5/50/547A To Glas, Rhoslan, Aberdyfi LL35 0NS

Engineering works including the erection of retaining walls, domestic garage, building to house a lift and raised patio areas.

No objections raised

NP5/50/LUL432C The Old Vicarage, Balkan Hill, Aberdyfi LL35 0NH

Certificate of Lawfulness of Proposed Use or Development for the conversion of the property from a dwellinghouse (use Class 3C) and short-term let (Use Class C6) to single dwellinghouse only (Use Class C3)

No additional evidence to add

NP5/50/LU629D Bryn Coed, Aberdyfi LL35 0PU

Certificate of Lawful Use (Existing) to use the property as a short-term holiday let (Use Class C6)

No additional evidence to add

Gwynedd Council Aberdyfi Ice Cream Ltd, Unit 2 Information Centre, The Wharf

Application for premises Licence

Application not supported

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

NP5/50/400G Land to rear of Greenhill Bungalow, Copperhill Street, Aberdyfi LL35 0HF

10

Construction of 2 detached shed to store equipment and machinery to maintain adjacent land (Re-submission) 

It was felt the sheds are very large and possibly an overdevelopment and the access issue may still be relevant.

Action: Clerk to contact Parc Eryri

NP5/50/LB188C 2 Bryn Hyfryd, Aberdyfi LL35 0LW

Listed building consent for alterations to existing rear flat roof extension, including damp proofing and replacement rooflight.

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To review and approve Annual Return

CL/36/16.06.25

It was unanimously resolved to approve the Annual Return

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider and approve number of copies of Welsh language version of walking guide to be printed

CL/37/16.06.25

It was agreed to have 200 copies of the Welsh language version of the walking guide printed. 

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to order 200 copies

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider a proposal from Gwynedd Council to re-establish a youth club in Aberdyfi

CL/38/16.06.25

It was agreed to contact Gwynedd Council to arrange a meeting to discuss the proposal further.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider the situation of Tywyn Memorial Hospital 

CL/39/16.06.25

The Clerk has received information from Betsi Cadwaldr Health Board stating that they will not be attending any public meetings but will consult with different groups over the next few months and make a decision about the facilities provided at Tywyn Hospital in December this year.

Action: Clerk to ensure that all local groups are included in the consultation 

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider a problem with the back wall of allotments

CL/40/16.06.25

The Clerk declared an interest in this item.

The Clerk reported that the surveyor has indicated that the shore up the back wall of the allotments properly they will need to encroach onto the allotment by 1 – 1.5m. It was agreed this was acceptable. 

11

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To consider supporting Tywyn Hockey Club’s fundraising project for new astroturf

CL/41/16.06.25

It was agreed to send a letter of support and to ask the AA&I if they might contribute financially 

Action: Clerk to write letter of support

Action: Clerk to forward request onto AA&I 

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

CL/42/16.06.25

* Request for letter of support regarding Corbet Arms Hotel.

It was agreed to send a letter of support

Action: Clerk to send letter of support

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

CL/43/16.06.25

* One Voice Wales – training dates for June-September

* Parc Eryri – draft delivery agreement for Local Development Plan

* Ambition North Wales Spring Newsletter

AGENDA ITEM 18– Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/44/16.06.25

* Review of Community Needs Survey

* Review of long-term rail timetable changes

* Possibility of installing solar benches

* Motorhome parking on Morfa Gypsies

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

CL/45/16.06.25

* Kite festival 5/6 July

* Food Festival 17 August

* DoveyFest 23/24/25 August 

* Councillor vacancy

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next meeting

CL/46/16.06.25

Monday 21^st July

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

12

Minutes of the fortieth annual meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Tuesday 13^th May 2025

Present:

Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Dewi Owen

Cllr Dave Williams

3 members of the public were present

At the commencement of the meeting, Cllr Hackelsberger tendered his resignation and left the meeting. 

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Election of Chair of Aberdyfi Community Council for the year 2025-26

CL/1/13.05.25

Cllr Dewi Owen was elected Chair

Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr Hewins

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

CL/2/13.05.25

The Declaration of Acceptance of the role of Chair was received.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – Election of Vice Chair of Aberdyfi Community Council for the year 2025-26

CL/3/13.05.25

Cllr Hewins was elected Vice Chair

Proposed: Cllr Dunton Seconded: Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive the Vice Chair’s declaration of Acceptance of Office

CL/4/13.05.25

The Declaration of Acceptance of the role of Vice Chair was received

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/5/13.05.25

Apologies accepted from Cllrs O’Neill and Reynolds

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

CL/6/13.05.25

The Terms of reference for the Finance Committee were reviewed and accepted

1

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Appointment of members to the Finance committee

CL/7/13.05.25

Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Porter and Williams were elected to the Finance Committee

AGENDA ITEM 8 – Appointment of members to outside bodies

CL/8/13.05.25

Members were appointed to the following outside bodies:

8.1 Aberdyfi Advertising and Improvements Committee

All councillors

8.2 Aberdyfi Literary Institute

Cllr Porter

8.3 Harbour Advisory Committee

Cllr Dunton

8.4 Neuadd Dyfi Management Committee – councillors with a vote

Cllrs Hewins, Kelly, Owen, Reynolds and Williams

8.5 Caravan Site Committee

Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Kelly, Owen, Reynolds and Williams

8.6 Richard Williams and Richards Roberts Trust Fund

Cllr Reynolds, Bradbury-Willis, Owen, Porter with Cllr Williams as Trustee

8.7 Lewis Lloyd Trust

Cllr Bradbury-Willis

8.8 Tywyn and District memorial hospital Appeal Fund

Cllr Kelly with Cllr Williams as deputy

8.9 One Voice Wales

Cllrs O’Neill and Owen, with Cllr Williams as deputy

8.10 Meirionnydd Access Group

Cllr O’Neill

8.11 Plastic-free Aberdyfi

It was agreed that Plastic-free Aberdyfi should be added to the list, with Cllr Porter as Council representative.

AGENDA ITEM 9 –  To approve dates of Council meetings 2024-25

CL/9/13.05.25

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

2025: 16^th June, 21^st July, 15^th September, 20^th October, 17^th November, 15^th December 2026: 19^thJanuary, 16^th February, 16^th March, 20^th April, 18^th May (Annual meeting)

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To review and adopt Standing Orders

CL/10/13.05.25

The Standing Orders were reviewed and adopted without any changes.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To review and adopt Financial Regulations

CL/11/13.05.25

The changes to the Financial Regulations were noted and accepted

2

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To review list of Council Assets

CL/12/13.05.25

The asset list was reviewed and accepted

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 13 – Appointment of Internal Auditor for 2025/26

CL/13/13.05.25

It was agreed to appoint Steve Lister as Internal Auditor

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on 14^th April 2025

CL/14/13.05.25

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Dunton

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To receive Treasurer’s report

CL/15/13.05.25

It was agreed in future to show all card transactions made through the Windcave system for the P&D machine in Neuadd Dyfi car park as one transaction. 

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/16/13.05.25

Cllr Owen reported that Ioan Thomas has been appointed as Chair and Mrs Elin Walker-Jones as Vice Chair of Gwynedd Council.

At the recent meeting of the full council, Article 4 was discussed with many councillors expressing opinions that it will damage the economy of many areas and if the economy is not robust, local people will not be able work locally and purchase homes. Cllr Owen reported to Gwynedd Council that there are 70 homes for sale in Aberdyfi alone and the economy is already suffering as a result of Article 4. Cllr Owen asked Gwynedd Council why Article 4 was passed by the cabinet and not brought to full council but received no clear answer. A judicial review is now underway. 

It was noted that when properties are put up for sale, they do not have to pay council tax and Cllr Owen asked Gwynedd Council who checks that the properties that claim to be uninhabited are indeed uninhabited. No clear answer was forthcoming. Cllr Owen reported that figures will be released at the end of the year on the impact of the different levels of council tax. 

Cllr Dunton asked Cllr Owen to look into and report on why the kitchen at Tywyn hospital has been closed and the beds moved to Dolgellau. 

Cllr Owen reported that the VE Day celebrations last week were very successful and well-attended and proposed a letter of thanks be sent to Totaleigh Music for their performance on the evening. 

3

Action: Cllr Owen to find out what is happening at Tywyn hospital

Action: Clerk to write to Totaleigh Music

Cllr Owen reported that the Wales Air Ambulance fundraising event was very successful with may people taking part and over £2,000 already raised. There was very little disruption on the day and the litter waste was well-managed. He congratulated the Britannia Inn on a successful event and proposed a letter of thanks be sent to them. 

Action: Clerk to write to the Britannia Inn

Cllr Owen reported that the new chemotherapy treatment unit has recently opened at Bronglais hospital and noted this is the result of a long period of fundraising by locals and is a very welcome addition to local services. He proposed the Council write a letter of congratulations to the hospital.

Action: Clerk to write to Bronglais 

AGENDA ITEM 17 – To receive a report from the clerk

CL/17/13.05.25

The clerk reported the following:

Walking Guide – the Welsh version is now being typeset. Various shops have offered to stock the guide.

Kite Festival – In the last hour, the clerk has been told that the Land Use Agreement has been approved. She has informed the police, ambulance, highways, Network Rail, Bus operators and all the businesses in the village of the event. She is waiting for confirmation of First Aid cover and has a meeting with the police on Thursday to discuss issues such as parking. Cllr Porter will ask Plastic-free Aberdyfi if they will do a beach clean later in the day on the Sunday of the festival instead of their normal morning time.

Playground project – the grant application has been submitted and it will be up to 15 weeks (end of July) before a decision is made. 

Broken fence in playing field – Clerk is waiting for a quote

Sustainable crabbing equipment – the clerk has sent a letter to all businesses asking them to stock sustainable equipment going forward. 

Compound by fire station – this work should be completed next week

Digital noticeboard – Gwynedd Council have agreed in principle to the noticeboard being situated on the wall of the shelter next to the main toilets. They have asked for a plan of works to be sent to them and once their properties department have approved the works, we can go ahead with the installation. Gwynedd Council have agreed to pay for the ongoing electricity costs and have stipulated that everything displayed is bilingual. The clerk received a new quote for the noticeboard and it is the same as two years ago – £13,993.44 ex-VAT. The Council agreed that the noticeboard should be in a landscape format. The clerk has asked for a quote for the cupboard doors. 

Toilets – Gwynedd Council are unhappy with the standard of the work and are taking it up with the contractors. They may be able to do a small refurbishment of the Neuadd Dyfi toilets next winter, using Gwynedd Council employees. Cllr Kelly pointed out that the timer on the lights in the gents toilet at the Neuadd Dyfi is far too short and asked if this could be passed onto Gwynedd Council 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council 

4

Ardal Ni – the clerk reminded the councillors to let her know if there is any work needing done by the Ardal Ni team. Cllr Williams noted that the vegetation in Penhelig car park needs cutting back and Cllr Bradbury-Willis noted that the kerbs in the main car park still need to be cleaned. 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council.

AGENDA ITEM 18 – To receive and consider planning applications and any additional applications received after publication of the agenda, where the consultation period expires before the next scheduled council meeting

CL/18/13.05.25

NP5/50/647D Land forming part of existing highway verge adjoining A943 between Aberdyfi & Tywyn

Formation of footpath (Active Travel Route) (Re-submission)

No objections raised

NP5/50/622C Chalet 63, Plas Panteidal Holiday Village, Aberdyfi LL35 0RF

Demolition of a storage building and the construction of a residential chalet (C3) with associated access and parking and drainage works (re-submission)

Cllr Kelly declared an interest in this application

Objection raised on grounds of no services available at this location, and an 11KV electricity pole and cables within the plot. Trees would have to be removed to allow the electricity pole to be moved and a channel cut through the surrounding forest to allow associated overhead cables to be moved. There are buildings which require access missing from the application

Action: Clerk to submit objections

Gwynedd Council Isabel’s Fine Foods Ltd

Application for a premises licence

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 19 – To consider problems caused by plastic cups being used for takeaways from pubs not being recycled

CL/19/13.05.25

It was suggested that Gwynedd Council could possibly put a plastic recycling bin in the centre of the village somewhere but it was agreed that recycling of the plastic glasses lies with the business as they have a legal responsibility to recycle their waste. 

AGENDA ITEM 20 – To consider supplying a skip for the village to help ease rubbish problems

CL/20/13.05.25

It was agreed to hire a skip for a weekend twice a year, out of season, so that residents can put in items they no longer need. It was agreed to hire an 8 yard skip initially, at a cost of £360 for a weekend in late Autumn, and review after to determine whether a larger one is required going forwards.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Williams

5

AGENDA ITEM 21 – To confirm date and format for annual village community meeting

CL/21/13.05.25

9^th June at the Neuadd Dyfi was set as the date of the meeting, with items such as council achievements, who is responsible for various events and things in the village and a presentation from the local police.

Action: Clerk to book Neuadd Dyfi and arrange meeting. 

AGENDA ITEM 22 –  Correspondence which requires a response from the Council

CL/22/13.05.25

* Heritage in your hands – request for letter of support for grant application

It was agreed to support this initiative

Action: Clerk to write letter of support

* Resident requesting more lampposts be decorated with Christmas lights

It was agreed that there are issues with some lampposts not being able to have lights attached. It was noted that the current lights cost approximately £2,900 which is organised and paid for by the AA&I, so the resident should address their query to the AA&I. 

Action: Clerk to contact resident

AGENDA ITEM 23 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council which has already been circulated to councillors

CL/23/13.05.25

* One Voice Wales – ebulletin

* One Voice Wales – training dates March – June

* Protect Bronglais Services – notice of public meeting 10^th June, 7pm, in Aberystwyth Arts Centre

* One Voice Wales – Chair vacancy of Betsi Cadwaldr Stakeholder Group

AGENDA ITEM 24 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/24/13.05.25

* To discuss issues with motorhomes parking on Morfa Gypsies

* To discuss long-term rail timetable changes 

* To discuss future of Tywyn hospital

* To discuss possibility of installing new type of benches similar to those in Tywyn

* To discuss damage to Pen y Bryn shelter

AGENDA ITEM 25 – Items for release / Rushlight / website / Facebook

CL/25/13.05.25

* Community meeting

* Councillor vacancies

* Food Festival

* Kite Festival

* Bike Ride

6

AGENDA ITEM 26 – Date of next meeting

CL/26/13.05.25

Monday 16^th June 2025

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.45pm

7

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 14^th April 2025

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors: Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/202/14.04.25

Apologies received and accepted from Cllr Dunton

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/203/14.04.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and commented how nice it was to have some rain after the long spell of dry weather recently, which has caused lots of problems for farmers and those who rely on springs for their water. 

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

CL/204/14.04.25

No declarations were received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 17^thMarch 2025

CL/205/14.04.25

The minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 17^th March 2025 were received and approved.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Williams

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

CL/206/14.04.25

It was resolved to receive and approve the Treasurer’s report

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Kelly

The Clerk presented the Budget v Expenditure comparison for the year to end March 2025.

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

CL/207/14.04.25

Cllr Owen reported that the election ward of Abertafol will be amalgamated with

56

Aberdyfi Ward, but there will be no change in the number of councillors. 

He reported that the toilets have been finished, but it was noted that the finish is not at all good with screws sticking out of the walls, holes in the walls and generally unsatisfactory. Cllr Hewins has photographs of the work and these will be passed onto the clerk and Gwynedd Council. The Clerk was asked to request a breakdown of costs, as Cllr Owen has been told that the final cost was over budget by a large amount.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

Cllr Owen reported that the road between the Macdonald Resort and the bridge in Pennal will be closed completely for one day towards the end of June, to allow for bridge inspection, he has been told. He will provide more information when it becomes available.

Action: Cllr Owen to report when more information becomes available

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To receive a report from the Clerk

CL/208/14.04.25

The Clerk report the following:

* Walking guide

The translation into Welsh has been received but one section was missing, so this has now been remedied and the text is now being typeset.

* Kite Festival

The Clerk met with the Beach Officer for Gwynedd Council, the Events Officer for Gwynedd Council and Red Dragon Kites for a site visit. She was informed that we need to apply for a Land Use Agreement and create an Event Management Plan and Risk Assessment. There is potential for a lot of visitors to the village, as historically many people book holidays in Barmouth to coincide with the Kite Festival, so they may well travel to Aberdyfi for this year’s festival as a consequence. It was suggested that the Council contacts Highways, Network Rail, bus services etc. to warn them of the event, as well as all the businesses. First Aid cover has been requested from St. John’s Ambulance. The Council’s Insurance company has confirmed that there will be no increase in premium for the event. The Neuadd Dyfi has been booked for workshops on the Thursday and Friday (4pm – 7pm) prior to the event and Red Dragon Kites will organise the workshops and contact the local schools. Donations will be requested from attendees to cover the cost of materials (provided by Red Dragon Kites) and any excess will go towards the event next year. Volunteers are needed for the workshops. There is need for a Council representative on each day of the event (5^th & 6^th July) to be a contact point for Red Dragon Kites and Emergency services, as the Clerk is not available on those dates.

Action: Councillors required to volunteer to help at workshops 

Action: Councillor volunteers required to be contact point on the two days of the festival, 5^th & 6^th July 

* Pay & Display machine

This has been installed and is working, although a month late. The Clerk is waiting for some training on how to use the Mi-office system to allow changes to tariffs etc. She asked if any councillors would also attend the training. She will request compensation for lost revenue.

57

* Car Park maintenance

The maintenance day was successful with approximately 15 volunteers helping and the trees seem to have survived the recent dry weather. The Clerk has requested that the Ardal-Ni team clean the kerb edges in the car park, but has been told that this is the responsibility of the parking department, so David Charles of the Ardal-Ni team will ask the parking department to clean the kerbs on our behalf.

* Playground project

The Clerk shared four up-to-date quotes with the council and informed them that she will be submitting the grant application in the very near future.

* Councillor vacancy

No election has been requested to fill the current vacancy so the Council may now co-opt. It was agreed to co-opt at the June meeting, as there is not a lot of time until the May meeting.

Action: Clerk to advertise for applications for co-option 

* Signs in lay-by on outskirts of Aberdyfi

The signs have been put up but Cllr Kelly reported that there is a problem with the way they are facing. It was noted that the abandoned boat has now been removed.

Action: Clerk to check and inform Gwynedd Council if required.

* Signs by main car park and Neuadd Dyfi car park

The parking signs have been changed but it was noted that the ones by the main car park show a towed caravan, which will encourage motorhome and caravan users to stay overnight. It was agreed to ask Gwynedd Council to change these to show just cars.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

* New Enforcement Officer

The Clerk reported she had been visited by the new enforcement officer for Gwynedd Council, who is responsible for things like dog poo, bins, fly-tipping etc. He is planning on being highly visible in the local area with a view to educating people and issuing fines as needed.

* Meeting with Police and GoSafe

The Clerk met with the Police and GoSafe to discuss issues and plans for the summer. The PCSOs plan to be highly visible in the area and residents are encouraged to report anything they deem suspicious, even if they don’t have the evidence they think they need, like a number-plate. This will allow the Police to build up a picture of behaviour. 

GoSafe reported that speed lines will be placed in Aberdyfi to collect speed data and if this shows that a significant number of vehicles are speeding, it will allow them to designate it as a ‘permanent live enforcement site’, allowing camera repeater signs to be displayed and traffic enforcement cameras to be used. 

* Hole in ground at Neuadd Dyfi car park

There is a hole in the ground at the Neuadd Dyfi car park, which could be dangerous. Cllr Hewins offered to repair the hole. 

Action: Cllr Hewins to repair the hole. 

* Fence in playing field broken 

The fence around the playing field is broken in 2 places and needs repaired. It was agreed for the Clerk to find someone to repair the damage.

Action: Clerk to seek a quote for repairs

58

* Little Book Stop

Penguin Books are looking for 90 places in the UK to site a small book exchange. It is free to apply and the Council will need to sign up to be a guardian of the book stop. It was agreed to apply for one, and possibly site it under the shelter by the main toilets, where the digital noticeboard is hoped to be sited. 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/209/14.04.25

NP5/50/532J Unit 2, Wharf Gardens, Aberdyfi LL35 0EE

Removal of condition 3 (Restriction retailing hot food off premises) attached to planning permission NP5/50/532C dated 11/03/2016

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider asking local businesses not to sell plastic crabbing nets.

CL/210/14.04.25

A report was received from Plastic-free Aberdyfi outlining a significant problem with plastic crabbing lines and drop-nets being discarded and left around the wharf area and in the water and requesting that the Council ask local business to consider not selling plastic lines and drop-nets in the future. It was agreed to do this. 

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to write to local businesses

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To consider purchase of a mobile phone for the clerk

CL/211/14.04.25

Cllr Kelly offered an unused phone for use by the clerk, though requested to be reimbursed the cost (£40) of the new battery recently installed. It was agreed that this was acceptable and agreed for the clerk to arrange a monthly SIM-only contract up to £7 per month.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To agree a date and format for the annual village community meeting

CL/212/14.04.25

It was agreed early June would be good and to ask the local PCSOs to attend and give a presentation. It was agreed to finalise the date and format at the next meeting.

Action: Clerk to check available dates at the Neuadd Dyfi

Action: Councillors to inform the Clerk of any ideas for inclusion at the community meeting. 

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To consider paying for work on bin compound by fire station

CL/213/14.04.25

The Council resolved to pay for this work to be carried out.

The Clerk reported that she has asked for stickers to be put on the back side of the recycling bins on the promenade, and for them to be replaced by more specialised

59

bins in the future. She reported that Gwynedd Council plan to move the glass recycling bins to Tywyn but the Council agreed this was not a good plan and wish them to remain where they are.

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to arrange the work on the compound 

Action: Clerk to ask that the glass recycling is not moved to Tywyn

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider paying for replacement doors on meter cupboard next to main toilets when requesting to site a digital noticeboard in place of the white board next to the main toilets. 

CL/214/14.04.25

It was agreed to offer to pay to have the doors replaced when contacting Gwynedd Council asking for a digital noticeboard to be put up in the shelter next to the main toilets. 

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Kelly

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

Action: Clerk to seek quotes for the work

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To agree format for VE Day Celebrations

CL/215/14.04.25

It was agreed to follow the following format on 8^th May:

9am: Raise VE Day flag

6.30pm: David Richardson to play church bells, if possible

9.00pm: Gather on wharf and light brazier

9.30pm: Reading of the Tribute 

9.30pm: Sing “I Vow to Thee My Country” followed by the Welsh National Anthem, followed with 15 minutes of war-time music and songs provided by Totaleigh Music. They will also accompany the singing. 

Cllr Owen has had the agreement from the Harbourmaster to use the wharf. 

Action: Clerk to do Risk Assessment for the event

Action: Clerk to liaise with Totaleigh Music 

Action: Clerk to contact David Richardson

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

CL/216/14.04.25

* One Voice Wales – feedback on North Wales Regional Transport plan.

It was agreed that the plan is factually incorrect in several areas and it was agreed to respond to highlight this.

Action: Clerk to respond

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

CL/217/14.04.25

* One Voice Wales – training dates for March – June

60

AGENDA ITEM 17– Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/218/14.04.25

* Community Action Plan

* Problem of plastic cups being used by customers of the Britannia Inn not being recycled.

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

CL/219/14.04.25

* Kite festival 5th/6th July

* Food Festival 17^th August

* VE Day celebrations

* Councillor vacancy

* Post Office workshops advert 

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next meeting

CL/220/14.04.25

Tuesday 13^th May

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

61

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 17^th February 2025

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – To receive and accept apologies

CL/164/17.02.25

Apologies received and accepted from Cllrs Hewins, Porter, Reynolds and Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/165/17.02.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and commented how confusing and disruptive the situation regarding the recent road closure in the square has been for everyone. He informed the Council that the work has now been cancelled and will take place in October.

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

CL/166/17.02.25

No declarations were received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 20^thJanuary 2025

CL/167/17.02.25

The minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 20^th January 2025 were received and approved.

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Matters arising

CL/168/17.02.25

Page 40

M/95/(21.10.24) Re-printing of walking guide

The Clerk reported that the guide has been submitted for printing and hard copies should be delivered next week. The translation will be completed by mid-March and will need type-set and printed. The web developer has confirmed that digital copies should be able to be sold through the website. It was agreed to charge £2.50 per copy to businesses, which will cover the Council’s costs.

The Chair thanked Cllr Hackelsberger and Mrs. Meinir Owen for all their work on the walking guide. 

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

45

Page 41

M/99/(21.10.24) Digital noticeboard

The Chair reported that he is still waiting for a response from the senior official of Gwynedd Council regarding permission.

M/100/(21.10.24)Maintenance of CCTV cameras

The clerk is still waiting for the engineer to do the work.

Page 42

M/156/(20.01.25) Aberdyfi Kite Festival

The clerk reported that she had a site visit with the Harbourmaster, Beach Officer and Red Dragon Kites and an operational area of beach was agreed. They need to buy some fencing equipment and signs, which should come to no more than £300. Strings for the kite-making workshops will also need to be purchased but will be included in the £300 limit. The Neuadd Dyfi is free in the afternoon and evening of the two days leading up to the festival and the clerk will confirm the workshop dates and times closer to the time. She will send a list of local school contact details to Red Dragon Kites so they can approach the schools about the workshops. Children attending the workshops will be asked for donations towards the cost of the workshops. Red Dragon Kites have asked for Welsh support at the workshops and Cllr O’Neill offered her services for the Thursday. Other councillors offered their help on the day. It was agreed to purchase the equipment required.

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

Action: Clerk to purchase equipment, book Neuadd Dyfi and arrange workshops

Action: Clerk to arrange insurance cover

Action: Cllr O’Neill to provide Welsh support on 3^rd July

Action: Councillors to support event on the 5^th and 6^th July.

Page 43

M/158/(20.01.25) Purchase of beacon for VE Day celebrations on 8^th May

The Clerk reported that a 90cm fire-bowl is approximately £225 and the Chair reported that he has a suitable container which can be used as a fire-pit and he will provide hurdles as safety barriers. It was agreed to take Cllr Owen up on his generous offer. Details for the event will be discussed at the next meeting

Action: Clerk to include in agenda for March

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

CL/169/17.02.25

It was resolved to receive and approve the Treasurer’s report

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Kelly

It was proposed to add two more councillors as signatories on the bank account to authorise payments as there are only two signatories at present. Cllrs Bradbury-Willis and Kelly agreed to take on the role. 

Proposed: Cllr Owen  Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

Action: Clerk to arrange for signatories to be added to the bank account

46

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To receive a report from the Gwynedd Council representative

CL/170/17.02.25

Cllr Owen reported that he has had several meeting recently:

* with Highways department of Gwynedd Council.

The junction at Machynlleth was discussed and Gwynedd Council have been monitoring the situation over the last few months and will continue to do so. Gwynedd Council have asked for a copy of the report done by the Welsh Government at the end of last year, but the Welsh Government won’t give it to them. They will continue to push to have sight of the report. The farmer of the land around the junction has reported seeing several bumps of cars going into the back of others turning left towards Aberdyfi. 

The pinch point by the cottages was also discussed and it was agreed that something needs to change here as well. Pennal and Tywyn Councils have also written to complain about this issue. 

Gwynedd Council shared with Cllr Owen that Gwynedd has a total of 3862km of roads, the third highest in Wales and they aim to inspect them every month if possible. There are increasing issues with water run-off from roads flowing onto land that is not owned by Gwynedd Council and the landowners have been complaining at the increase in water run-off onto their land, which is causing issues such as flooding.

Work to repair road-side wall and barriers at Friog Hill has started and the road will be closed overnight with light during the day, although emergency services will still have access. Gwynedd Council reported that part of the problem has been people taking stones from the wall for rockeries at home. 

* with Adra Housing Association.

They currently have 7000 homes in Gwynedd with 340 staff. They plan to take on more staff and they will be taking on more homes in the near future. In Aberdyfi, they confirmed that they have recently bought 17 Maes Newydd, giving a total of 3 or 4 houses in Aberdyfi. However, no-one has moved in to any of the houses yet. They confirmed they will be building 5 new houses in Pennal in the near future.

* with new Chief Executive of Parc Eryri – Jonathan Crawley.

He confirmed that Plas Tan y Bwlch is for sale. It is not known who his replacement in the planning department will be. He has offered to attend one of our meetings later in the year.

* with Gwynedd Council

The conduct of Town and Community Councillors was discussed and it was confirmed that there will be training provided on Code of Conduct for Councillors in the near future. 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To receive and consider planning applications

CL/171/17.02.25

NP5/50/314H Morlan, Cwm Safnast, Aberdyfi LL35 0SE

Alterations to the roof and external walls of dwellinghouse, the installation of a log burning flue on an outbuilding and the construction of natural swimming pool within the residential curtilage

No objections raised

47

NP5/50/L443F Balkan Hill House, Aberdyfi LL35 0LB

Retrospective application for a Variation of Conditions 2 (Approved plans), 3 (External finishes) and 4 (biodiversity enhancements) attached to planning permission NP5/50/L443 dated 22/09/2020

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider and adopt the NALC model Equality & Diversity policy

CL/172/17.02.25

It was resolved to adopt the NALC model Equality & Diversity policy without any changes

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To consider and adopt an Environmental policy

CL/173/17.02.25

It was resolved to adopt the policy without any changes

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider and adopt an Access Plan for the playground

CL/174/17.02.25

The Council resolved to adopt the Access Plan for the playground without any changes

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss possible locations for signs for the Time & Tide Bell stories project

CL/175/17.02.25

Cllr O’Neill asked for feedback on the proposed locations for the signs and QR codes for the Time & Tide Bell stories project. Various locations were discussed and suggested. Cllr O’Neill confirmed that the project is being funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. 

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider supporting the campaign to establish a dental school in Bangor

CL/176/17.02.25

It was agreed to write in support of the campaign to establish a dental school in Bangor.

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

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

CL/177/17.02.25

* One Voice Wales – request for attendance at Annual General Meeting on 11^th March 2025. Cllr Owen agreed to attend

Action: Cllr Owen to attend on 11^th March 2025

48

* Gwynedd Council – proposed changes to parking signs at both the main and Neuadd Dyfi car park and road markings at 20mph limit.

Supported unanimously

Action: Clerk to inform Gwynedd Council of support for the propose changes

* Time & Tide Bell repairs – the Clerk reported that the grating above the bell needs to be repaired and is in talks with the Harbourmaster about how this can be achieved. Cllr O’Neill offered to speak to the Time & Tide Bell project coordinator and ask who repairs the other Time & Tide bells.

Action: Clerk to liaise with harbourmaster to effect repairs 

Action: Cllr O’Neill to research who maintains other Time & Tide bells.

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

CL/178/17.02.25

* One Voice Wales – vacancy for Chair to Natural Resources Wales

* One Voice Wales – Asbestos Awareness Training dates

* Gwynedd Council – notice of Gwynedd and Eryri Visitor Economy conference 2025

* One Voice Wales – Training dates January – March

* One Voice Wales – consultation on draft policy and practice on electoral review programme by the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru

AGENDA ITEM 16– Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/179/17.02.25

* VE celebrations

* Community Action Plan

* Time & Tide bell maintenance

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

CL/180/17.02.25

* Clwb Sgwrsio 3^rd March

* Kite festval 5th/6th July

* Food Festival 17^th August

* Walking Guide

* Community lunch

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Date of next meeting

CL/181/17.02.25

Monday 17^th March 2025

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

49

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 20^th January 2025

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

3 members of the public were present

During the public session, a presentation was received from Red Dragon Kites regarding the proposed kite festival.

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/144/20.01.25

Apologies accepted from Cllr Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/145/20.01.25

The Chair welcomed everyone and wished everyone a Happy New Year. 

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

CL/146/20.01.25

No declarations were received

AGENDA ITEM 4 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 16^thDecember 2024

CL/147/20.01.25

The minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 16^th December 2024 were received and approved.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Matters arising

CL/148/20.01.25

Page 35

M/75/(16.09.24) To review training plan

The councillors agreed that the recent training session from Planning Aid Wales was very informative and useful. The Chair reminded the Council about other training sessions available to Councillors.

M/95/(21.10.24) Re-printing of walking guide

40

Cllr Hackelsberger reported that the guide is ready for printing. The Clerk presented the two quotes that have been received for translating the guide and the Council agreed to ask Rhiannon Jones to do the work.

Proposed: Cllr Owen  Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

M/99/(21.10.24) Digital noticeboard

The Chair reported that he had contacted Gwynedd Council but the person he spoke to was negative about the project and told him that he could not make a decision and would need to refer it to a senior official. The Chair is waiting for a response from the senior official

Page 36

M/100/(21.10.24)Maintenance of CCTV cameras

The work will be done in February, as the engineer is busy with pantomime at the moment.

M/115/(21.10.24) Maintenance of toilets Christmas and Boxing Day

The clerk reported that the street cleaner cleaned the toilets on both days and she checked them also. However, this is not sustainable going forward, so she is going to work with Tywyn Town Council to get the toilets in both Aberdyfi and Tywyn open on Christmas and Boxing Day this year, with the two councils sharing the cost of the work. She has spoken to the toilet cleaner and he is happy with this proposal

Action: Clerk to contact Tywyn council and Gwynedd Council 

New junction near Machynlleth

The Clerk reported that she had a meeting with Andrew Gregson, Senior Highways Engineer for Gwynedd Council, and he will obtain traffic information for the junction for us. She encouraged all councillors to ask residents to send any evidence of accidents and near-misses to the Clerk. The Councillors reported that the large sign approaching the junction isn’t lit at night, the turn is actually much sharper than anticipated and in the dark, it is hard to see the kerb at the junction. Cllr Williams reported that if a roundabout was installed, it would need to be permanently lit at night and this might encroach onto the Dark Skies Area of Corris. 

Action: Councillors to speak to residents and gather evidence

The Clerk reported that at this meeting, she also discussed the signage for the Neuadd Dyfi car park and was promised that new signs will be bought in this financial year, showing a car as well as a coach. She was also told that 20mph roundels will be painted on the road at each end of the village and Mr. Gregson will obtain traffic information for the area between the 20mph limit at the Golf Club end of the village and the traffic lights. If this information shows a significant number of cars going over the enforcement limit, they will then be able to gather more evidence and if this still shows a significant number, they will then be able to designate that area as an enforcement area and will allow small 20mph and camera signs to be installed. 

Action: Clerk to liaise with Mr. Gregson in moving this forward

41

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Treasurer’s report

CL/149/20.01.25

It was resolved to receive and approve the Treasurer’s report

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/150/20.01.25

Cllr Owen reported that there haven’t been any meetings recently but noted that the proposal to introduce a tourism tax will be discussed in the near future. 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – Planning

CL/151/20.01.25

No applications have been received

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To consider and adopt Aberdyfi Community Council Privacy & CCTV policy 

CL/152/20.01.25

It was resolved to adopt the policy with the addition of a statement that the Council is registered with the ICO.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Porter

Action: Clerk to make the change to the policy

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To consider and adopt Aberdyfi Community Council Social Media and Communication policy

CL/153/20.01.25

It was resolved to adopt the policy with the removal of the word ‘either’ in the fifth bullet point. 

Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To consider and award grants

CL/154/20.01.25

The Council resolved to award grants of £100 each to Meirionnydd Young Farmers, Wales Air Ambulance, Dail Dysynni and the National Eisteddfod.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss allowing overnight camping on 18^th and 19^th July in the Neuadd Dyfi car park for GP14 national sailing event organised by the Yacht Club

CL/155/20.01.25

It was resolved to allow overnight camping on these nights. 

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

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To consider hosting a kite festival in Aberdyfi on 5^th and 6^th July

CL/156/20.01.25

Red Dragon Kites propose to hold a kite festival with professionally-flown kites in a fenced-off area of the beach on both days between 10am and 4pm, assuming

42

favourable weather. They plan to visit the local schools and get the children involved in flying their own kites and a possibility of running kite-making workshops prior to the event. All the kite flyers have their own insurance and Red Dragon Kites will help with Risk Assessments and other requirements in order for the Council to host the event. It was resolved to host the kite festival this year.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Williams

Action: Clerk to arrange to meet with Red Dragon Kites and the harbourmaster

Action: Clerk to arrange for the event to be covered by Council Insurance

Action: Clerk and Red Dragon Kites to agree what the Council’s involvement will be

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To consider organisation of the Food Festival on 17^th August

CL/157/20.01.25

In response to the feedback from last year, the organisers of the event propose to only have small tents this year, with no marquee and no demonstrations, but with more food-to-go stalls. It will also remove the necessity of organising the mobile kitchen and chairs. The Council agreed to go ahead with the proposal.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To consider purchase of beacon for VE Day celebrations on 8^th May

CL/158/20.01.25

It was agreed to revisit this item next month as a fire-bowl may be more appropriate and it was agreed for councillors and Clerk to research fire-bowls prior to meeting.

Action: Councillors and Clerk to research fire-bowls 

Action: Clerk to include in February Agenda

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

CL/159/20.01.25

* Gwynedd Council – reply to our response regarding proposed changes to parking charges

It was agreed that a short-term area in the car park would not help the situation, as the road-side parking is short-term

Action: Clerk to reply to Gwynedd Council

* Gwynedd Council – problems with new road junction near Machynlleth & road in front of cottages

Action: Councillors and Clerk to gather evidence from residents.

Action: Clerk to liaise with Gwynedd Council about 20mph speed restrictions

* One Voice Wales – Survey regarding engagement with One Voice Wales Area Committees

Cllrs Owen and O’Neill reported that it is much more difficult to attend these meetings as they are now face to face in Dolgellau with no option of attending remotely. 

Action: Clerk to respond to the survey with this information.

43

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

CL/160/20.01.25

* Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru – revised proposals of the Review of Senedd Constituencies

* One Voice Wales – Training dates for January – March

* Dwr Cymru – new water main to be installed between the bottom of Gwelfor Road and the Trefeddian Hotel along Morfa Gypsies

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/161/20.01.25

* VE celebrations

* Main car park maintenance

* Shelter at cemetery 

* Community Action Plan

* Signage at Neuadd Dyfi car park

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

CL/162/20.01.25

* Panto at Neuadd Dyfi

* Clwb Sgwrsio 3^rd February

* Food Festival 17^th August

AGENDA ITEM 21 – Date of next meeting

CL/163/20.01.25

Monday 17^th February 2025

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.35pm

44

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 16^th December 2024

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

2 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/125/16.12.24

Apologies accepted from Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Dunton, Hackelsberger, Tyrrell & Williams

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/126/16.12.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and thanked the clerk for organising the Christmas dinner, remarking how nice it was to take part in the quiz as well as having a meal. 

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 18^thNovember 2024.

CL/127/16.12.24

The minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 18^th November 2024 were received and approved.

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Hewins

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/128/16.12.24

Page 30

M/75/(16.09.24) To review training plan

The clerk has arranged the training session for the whole council with Planning Aid Wales for 13^th January at 6pm at the Neuadd Dyfi. 

Page 31

M/95/(21.10.24) Re-printing of walking guide

The Clerk has bought an ISBN number but has not yet had time to research payable downloads or translation.

Action: Clerk to find cost of translation and payable downloads of guide

M/99/(21.10.24) Digital noticeboard

The Chair reported that he had tried to contact Gwynedd Council but the person he needed to speak to wasn’t there and didn’t call back, so he will keep trying.

Action: Chair to contact Gwynedd Council

35

M/100/(21.10.24)Maintenance of CCTV cameras

Terry Loftus has agreed to do the work.

Page 32

M/115/(21.10.24) Maintenance of toilets Christmas and Boxing Day

The clerk has been given the details of the cleaner and will contact him to arrange pick-up of materials. She has agreed with the street cleaner to do the work and she will arrange for a notice to be put up at the Neuadd Dyfi toilets saying that the main toilets are open.

Action: Clerk to meet up with cleaner to arrange handover

Action: Clerk to arrange for signs to be put on toilets by the Neuadd Dyfi 

Page 33

M/118/(18.11.24) VE celebrations 8^th May 2025

The Clerk reported that she has been in contact with the Royal British Legion representative, who agrees that a small celebration would be appropriate and arrangements will be made closer to the time. The Clerk reported that a beacon may cost approximately £1000 so the council has asked her to research bespoke costs as well as off-the-shelf items.

Action: Clerk to research cost of various beacons.

M/120/(18.11.24) Correspondence

Cycle path

Gwynedd Council will arrange a meeting with Aberdyfi Community Council early next year to discuss completing the project. It was agreed to ask Tywyn and Bryncrug Councils if they would like to be involved in the meeting. 

Action: Clerk to contact Tywyn and Bryncrug Councils

Page 34

New junction near Machynlleth

The Clerk reported that the Clerk in Machynlleth said they have not had any complaints about the junction but the Chair reported that Pennal Council have received several complaints about the junction. The Clerkhas contacted Gwynedd Council, who said they didn’t think they had any involvement with road improvements in that area and the Strategic Road Network Division of the Welsh Government said there are no plans to make any physical changes to the layout of the scheme. They informed her that feedback needs to be detailed and specific. 

The Council agreed that this is not satisfactory and resolved to encourage people to feed back to the Welsh Government as much as possible via Rushlight etc. and the Clerk will contact them again on behalf of the Council, with more specific feedback, including photographs. 

Action: Contact details for giving feedback to be put in Rushlight and on social media and given to Tywyn, Bryncrug and Pennal Council.

Action: Clerk to contact the Welsh Government again

36

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/129/16.12.24

It was resolved to receive and approve the Treasurer’s report

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/130/16.12.24

Cllr Owen reported that at the recent meeting of Gwynedd Council, it was reported that Aberdyfi has the second-highest proportion of second homes in Gwynedd. Abersoch has 53%, Aberdyfi 47% and it was noted that while more people are moving into villages like Aberdyfi on a permanent basis, there are worries about the effect of this on the Welsh language. 

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/131/16.12.24

NP5/50/L515A Frondeg, Copperhill St, Aberdyfi LL35 0HT

Conversion of domestic garage into residential annexe

The Council felt that this is an overdevelopment of the property, as it already contains space for 14 people to sleep and in the summer this property is very noisy, causing a lot of disturbance to neighbouring properties. This development will increase the disturbance. There were also concerns regarding the amount of cars using the property and cars parking on the road when there is already very limited parking for residents in that area.

It was resolved to respond with this concerns. 

Action: Clerk to respond to Parc Eryri outlining the concerns of the Council

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To discuss and approve budget for 2025-26

CL/132/16.12.24

It was resolved to add the excess from this year into general reserves. It was resolved to approve the budget with this change.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To discuss and approve the precept for 2025-26

CL/133/16.12.24

It was resolved to raise the precept by 3%, as the rate of inflation is currently 3.2%. This results in a precept of £45,546.02.

Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To discuss and approve a donation to the Neuadd Dyfi

CL/134/16.12.24

The donation to the Neuadd Dyfi this year is calculated as £3,985 / 2 = £1,992.50 + £2,500 = £4,492.50. It was resolved to approve this amount and donate it to the Neuadd Dyfi

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss Aberdyfi Community Council running the Christmas Fair

CL/135/16.12.24

37

It was agreed that the Community Council will run the Christmas fair going forward.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss public recycling issues

CL/136/16.12.24

Plastic-free Aberdyfi have informed the Clerk they are concerned that the recycling bins in the main car park are being contaminated by other waste as the openings to the bins are large and not a specific shape for the recycling. All the bins therefore

get emptied into general waste. Plastic-free Aberdyfi are requesting that the Council ask Gwynedd Council to change the openings to the bins or put new bins in their place. It was resolved to do this.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council about this issue

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To discuss allowing work on the retaining wall in allotments

CL/137/16.12.24

The Clerk reported that part of the retaining wall at the back of the allotments needs work to stabilise it and the owners of the houses have been told that the work needs to be done from the allotment side of the wall, so are asking if they can access the allotments to have the work done. It was agreed to allow access and to ask the affected allotment-holder to move to one of the empty allotments temporarily. 

Action: Clerk to liaise with the house owners

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To review provision of benches

CL/138/16.12.24

It was agreed to move the dark brown benches to the playground and the review the number of spaces available for new benches. Cllr Hewins and Owen volunteered to move the benches.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Porter

Action: Cllrs Hewins and Owen to move benches. 

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

CL/139/16.12.24

* email from Liz Saville-Roberts – information and request for feedback on Smart meters, internet access, mobile signal, move to digital phone services and public transport provision. All five topics were discussed and it was agreed that the provision of all of them is not satisfactory in Aberdyfi and the surrounding area. It was agreed for the Clerk to respond on behalf of the Council.

Action: Clerk to respond with feedback discussed by the Council

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

CL/140/16.12.24

* One Voice Wales – email regarding effect of Gwynedd Council’s Common Housing Policy

* One Voice Wales – email regarding training and request for trainers

38

* One Voice Wales – survey on Welsh Government’s Action Plan on dementia

* Lord Lieutenant – thanks for his invite to join the Remembrance Service in Aberdyfi

* Gwynedd Council – report from Communities Scrutiny Committee

* Member of Public – appreciation for toilets being open during recent visit

* North Wales Police – survey on funding of policing in North Wales

* One Voice Wales – email regarding Pethau Bychain membership

* One Voice Wales – guidelines for Cloud Storage

* One Voice Wales – call for submissions to inquiry on community cohesion by the

House of Commons’ Women and Equalities Committee

* Nik Cilia, Policy Officer, Older People’s Rights, Welsh Gov. – survey of Older People’s experiences 

* National Energy System Operator – consultation and webinar

* Gwynedd Council – toilet refurbishment update

* One Voice Wales – Keeping Communities Warm webinar

AGENDA ITEM 17 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/141/16.12.24

* VE celebrations

* Shelter at cemetery 

* Community Action Plan

* Decide parking charges at Neuadd Dyfi car park and signage

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

CL/142/16.12.24

* Train timetable changes

* Panto at Neuadd Dyfi

* Tractor Run

* Machynlleth junction

* Atlantic rowing race participation by Nia

* petition to safeguard the Cambrian Coast line 

AGENDA ITEM 21 – Date of next meeting

CL/143/16.12.24

Monday 20^th January 2025

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

39

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 18^th November 2024

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/106/18.11.24

Apologies accepted from Cllrs Reynolds and Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/107/18.11.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and commented that the recent good weather has helped boost visitor numbers and in particular, the bonfire and fireworks were extremely well attended, and he wished to thank the Fire Service for their hard work in organising this event. The rain also held off for the Remembrance Day services for which we fortunate to have the Lord Lieutenant in attendance. He was impressed by the number of people in attendance and how well it was organised and thanks also go to those involved in organising the Remembrance Services.

Action: Clerk to thank the Fire Service and organisers of the Remembrance services.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 21^stOctober 2024.

CL/108/18.11.24

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/109/18.11.24

Page 24

M/75/(16.09.24) To review training plan

The clerk reported that Planning Aid Wales have given a final quote of £792.00 for a Face to Face training course of 2.5 hours, which includes travel and overnight costs. It was agreed to cover the extra cost and organise a date early next year. 

Action: Clerk to arrange training event

30

Page 25

M/79/(16.09.24) Playground project

There was a good response to the survey with over 110 responses and they were overwhelmingly supportive of the project. The main points that came out of the survey was that new equipment is needed in the playground, more sheltered seating would be welcome and that there is not enough for children to do in the village. It was noted that the seating and other concerns can be addressed at a later date. 

The clerk reported that she is now working with Resources 4 Change to complete the grant application. Cllr O’Neill reported that the shelter has had some substance thrown over the perspex backing and it was agreed to arrange for it to be cleaned

Action: Clerk to arrange cleaning of shelter

M/80/(16.09.24) Terrace Road shelter

Cllr Hewins reported that the work has now been completed and it is hoped this will solve the problem. It was noted that the AA&I pay for the shelter to be cleaned and they will arrange for it to be cleaned before the Spring season.

M/82/(16.09.24) Wi-fi at the Literary Institute

The clerk reported that she established that the Council internet has a setting for public use, which does not require a password but does not give access to the council router. She has enabled this function but the signal is not strong enough to reach the Reading Room. It was agreed that the Literary Institute would buy a repeater and it would be linked to the Council router and placed in the Reading Room. 

Page 27

M/95/(21.10.24) Re-printing of Aberdyfi walking guide

Cllr Hackelsberger reported that the guide has now been finished and is ready to go to the publisher once an ISBN number has been purchased. The clerk has started this process. It was suggested that perhaps people could also pay to download a copy of the guide. It was agreed to research this further and to research the cost of translation.

Action: Clerk to chase purchase of ISBN number, research payable downloads and cost of translation. 

M/99/(21.10.24) Digital noticeboard

The Chair reported that he had tried several times to contact Mr. Jones at Parc Eryri and left messages, but he had no reply. It was agreed that paying £3,000 more for a free-standing notice-board was unreasonable and makes the project unfeasible. It was suggested that a solution may be to place the noticeboard on the wall under the canopy next to the toilets, where the large noticeboard is currently sited. It was agreed to propose this to Gwynedd Council.

Action: Clerk / Chair to contact Gwynedd Council.

M/100/(21.10.24) Maintenance of CCTV cameras

The clerk reported that the list of tasks had been received from Cllr Kelly and it was

31

agreed to get some quotes for the work.

Action: Clerk to seek quotes

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/110/18.11.24

Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/111/18.11.24

Cllr Owen reported that Nia Jeffries has been nominated as the next leader of Gwynedd Council and there will be a vote at the full meeting of Gwynedd Council on 5^th December to decide on the new leader and vice-leader. 

He reported that between 16^th and at least 22^nd November, all trains from Shrewsbury to Birmingham will terminate at Wolverhampton and from 8^th to 16^th December, buses will replace trains between Machynlleth and Pwllheli. 

Work has started on the gas pipe with traffic lights between Aberdyfi and Tywyn likely for some time. 

He reported that at a recent extra-ordinary meeting of Gwynedd Council, it was decided not to move to a single transferable vote, the motion being defeated by just one vote. 

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/112/18.11.24

No applications have been received

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To review and adopt the One Voice Wales Financial Regulations (2024)

CL/113/18.11.24

It was agreed to adopt the model Financial Regulations.

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

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To note the new salary scales from the National Association of Local Councils (NALC)

CL/114/18.11.24

The new salary scales were noted

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To discuss maintenance of toilets on Christmas and Boxing Day

CL/115/18.11.24

The clerk reported that she had an email from Gwynedd Council, agreeing that if Aberdyfi Community Council takes responsibility for cleaning and maintenance of the toilets on Christmas and Boxing Day, they will leave the main toilets open, as a trial. It was agreed to go ahead with this and for the clerk to request a supply of toilet paper from Gwynedd Council and for the Community Council to buy cleaning supplies for the street cleaner to use. 

Action: Clerk to arrange and reply to Gwynedd Council, accepting their proposal

32

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss proposals for lay-by on outskirts of Aberdyfi

CL/116/18.11.24

It was agreed that Option 1 is the preferred option and it was suggested that a sign warning of an upcoming parking area somewhere East of the lay-by would be useful and that the blue arrows would be better as P signs.

Action: Clerk to respond to the proposal with suggestions

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss putting artificial turf in goal areas of playing field

CL/117/18.11.24

The Clerk reported that the grounds-maintenance contractor had sought advice from a turf maintenance company regarding the problem of lack of grass in the goal-mouths of the playing field. He had been told that it’s not worth re-seeding the areas and the only solution is to lay artificial turf. The Council was felt that artificial turf was not a suitable solution and it was agreed, as a trial, to try aerating the area and laying sand in the goal-mouths, in the hope of reducing the amount of mud. 

Action: Clerk to inform ground-maintenance contractor

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To discuss VE celebrations 8^th May 2025

CL/118/18.11.24

It was agreed to research buying a beacon and to speak to members of the church and British Legion, to establish any plans they have. 

Action: Clerk to research purchase of a beacon and contact British Legion representative

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To discuss renewing printer lease

CL/119/18.11.24

The Clerk presented quotes from various suppliers and it was agreed to continue with the current supplier and take out a contract for a refurbished machine, which will reduce both lease and printing costs.

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Action: Clerk to arrange lease for new printer

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

CL/120/18.11.24

* Gwynedd Council – withdrawal of planning application for cycle path

Network Rail and Dwr Cymru objected to the planning application for the cycle path, so Gwynedd Council withdrew the application. The Clerk has been informed that they are still keen to complete the project and extend it to the village instead of finishing at the cemetery and wish to work with the Community Council to enable this. It was agreed to work with Gwynedd Council to ensure this happens.

Action: Clerk to respond to Gwynedd Council 

* Gwynedd Council – consultation on car park charges.

It was felt that the proposal to charge for a minimum of 4 hours would negatively impact business, especially as the free parking is only 45 minutes. It may also lead

33

to more people parking in inappropriate places, which could mean emergency

vehicles unable to get through smaller streets in the village. 

Action: Clerk to respond highlighting these issues

* New junction near Machynlleth

It was noted that nothing has been done about this junction yet and it is difficult to see the kerb in the dark. It was agreed to speak to Machynlleth Town Council to find out if they have had similar complaints and to contact Gwynedd Council highways regarding the issues.

Action: Clerk to contact Machynlleth Town Council and highways.

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

CL/121/18.11.24

* One Voice Wales – Joint One Voice Wales / SLCC event

* Email from Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning regarding proposed Pylons in Wales

* Independent Renumeration Panel – draft annual report meeting invite

* One Voice Wales – responses to consultation on role, governance & accountability of community and town councils

* Llais Cymru – invite to public forum regarding local health care provision

* One Voice Wales – training for November and December

* One Voice Wales – Local Places for Nature exhibition

AGENDA ITEM 19 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/122/18.11.24

* Shelter at cemetery

* Community Action Plan

* Decide parking charges for Neuadd car park and new signage

* VE Day – January meeting

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

CL/123/18.11.24

* Bike repair station

* Train disruptions

* Christmas tree

* Clwb sgwrsio 2^nd Dec

* Advent windows

AGENDA ITEM 21 – Date of next meeting

CL/124/18.11.24

Monday 16th December 2024

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.25pm

34

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 21^st October 2024

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of the public were present

A presentation from a member of the public regarding a proposal to run a portable sauna business was received during the public session.

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/88/21.10.24

Apologies accepted from Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Hackelsberger and Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/89/21.10.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and remarked how lucky it was that no major damage was reported in the village as a result of the recent storm. 

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 16^thSeptember 2024.

CL/90/21.10.24

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/91/21.10.24

Page 17

M/39/(17.06.24) Recycling facilities and waste bins in Aberdyfi

The Chair reported that the recycling bins in the main car park have had new labels attached which are much brighter and clearer, and the area by the fire station is much tidier and clean. 

Page 20

M/75/(16.09.24) To review training plan

The clerk reported that she has been granted a bursary for the CiLCA training. Planning Aid wales have quoted £650 for a bespoke course though a Face to Face course would also incur travelling expenses. It was agreed to go ahead with a face to face course.

Action: clerk to obtain possible dates

24

M/77/(16.09.24) Purchase of new P&D machine

This has been ordered and will be installed early next year.

Page 21

M/79/(16.09.24) Playground project

The survey has now been completed and the clerk has written a draft for the grant application. A meeting with Resources 4 Change will take place this week. 

M/80/(16.09.24) Terrace Road shelter

Cllrs Hewins and Tyrrell reported that the gutters have been cleaned and repaired and they have found someone willing to do the groundworks for £330 so will arrange for this work to be done asap. They have agreed this work with the harbourmaster. 

M/81/(16.09.24) Time & Tide bell

Cllr O’Neill reported that she met with the Time & Tide bell group representative and they have funding for someone to collect stories from local residents which will be collated and added to the offering around the Time & Tide bell. 

Post Office project

Cllr O’Neill reported that work has started on the retaining wall behind the Post Office building and it is hoped that it will soon be completed to the satisfaction of the insurance company which will allow the grant funding to be released to purchase the building. 

Page 22

M/82/(16.09.24) Wi-fi situation at the Literary Institute

Cllr Williams noted that the Literary Institute will meet within the next few days and it is suspected that they will ask if it is possible to use the Council wi-fi, as the only telephone line into the building is in the Council Office. The clerk reported that the Neuadd Dyfi has more than one wi-fi connection, and it was agreed to speak to Mr. George, as he might know if this is possible without compromising the security of the Council. If it is, then the Council have no objection to this proposal.

Action: Cllr Williams to speak to Mr George. 

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/92/21.10.24

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Hewins

The clerk reported that the Audit had been received and it was satisfactory, save that more detail regarding variances is requested in future.

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/93/21.10.24

Cllr Owen reported that there was a special financial meeting last week and at that meeting Gwynedd Council reported that they will have a deficit of £14million in 2024/25. Another meeting this week will discuss where cuts will be made and it is expected that these will be in areas of less importance, meaning Gwynedd may be

25

asking Community Councils to take over the running of services such as toilets etc. Gwynedd Council reported that Homelessness in Gwynedd last year cost £6.4million but only £3million was received from central Government, meaning a shortfall of £3.4million. He noted that they have now bought two houses in Aberdyfi, one over a year ago, and they are still empty. When asked about this, Gwynedd Council replied that they have been unable to get tradespeople in to do the work required. Local tradespeople are reluctant to try to become an official supplier to Gwynedd Council as there is too much red tape. 

He reported that the Welsh Government are pressing ahead with the Single Transferable Voting system, which will see voters voting for a party and not an individual. He expressed concern that Community and Town Councils may be amalgamated as a result, as the plans are to increase the area of local Councils.

Cllr Owen reported that he was voted in as Chair at the recent Harbour users meeting. At the meeting, the Harbourmaster reported that the number of moorings has increased since last year, from 73 to 81 this year, with more enquiries for next year. It was noted that the channel has changed a lot this year and is being closely monitored by the Harbourmaster via a drone. It was reported that Aberdyfi harbour, after several years making a loss, has broken even in the last two years and it is projected to continue. Cllr Own reported that the new Harbourmaster’s building is likely to cost approximately £500,000. 

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/94/21.10.24

NP5/50/622B

Cllr Kelly declared an interest in the first item

NP5/50/622B Chalet 63, Plas Panteidal, Aberdyfi LL35 0RF

Demolition of a storage building and the construction of a residential chalet and associated access, parking and drainage works

Objection raised on grounds of no services available at this location, and an 11KV electricity pole and cables within the plot. Trees would have to be removed to build the decking and there are buildings which require access missing from the application

NP5/50/719A Arfryn, Gwelfor Road, Aberdyfi. LL35 0NT

Construction of domestic workshop at first floor above existing garage

No objections raised

NP5/50/C152B Bryn Awelon, Aberdyfi LL35 0LE

Removal of tree and replacement with smaller species

No objections raised

NP5/50/130E Bwlch Gwyn Farm, Aberdyfi LL35 0SG

Online application with all matters reserved for erection of a rural enterprise dwelling

No objections raised

26

NP5/50/771 Chalet N22, Plas Panteidal, Aberdyfi LL35 0RF

Variation of Condition No. 2 (8 month occupancy period) attached to Planning Permission NP5/42/160L dated 27.09.1982 to allow 10 months occupancy period (March to December)

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To discuss and approve re-printing and publishing the Aberdyfi walking guide

CL/95/21.10.24

It was agreed to re-print and publish the walking guide. It was agreed to find out if local shops and organisations will stock the guide and a decision will be made at the next meeting about the best way to manage this. 

Cllr O’Neill noted that there should be a Welsh version printed. It was noted that this is in the proposal and a smaller print run will be done for the Welsh version, though it will take longer to produce as the translation will take time and the cost will have to be taken into account. 

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Dunton

Action: Mrs Owen to speak to local businesses

Action: Cllr Hackelsberger to organise re-printing. 

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To review and adopt the Ombudsman for Wales Model Councillor Code of Conduct

CL/96/21.10.24

It was agreed to adopt the Model Councillor Code of Conduct

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To review and adopt the Information Commissioner’s Office Model Publication Scheme

CL/97/21.10.24

It was agreed to adopt the Model Publication Scheme

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To review and adopt the Ombudsman for Wales Model Concerns and Complaints Policy and Procedure

CL/98/21.10.24

It was agreed to adopt the Model Concerns and Complaints Policy and Procedure

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss sharing digital noticeboard with Parc Eryri and approve changing format to freestanding from wall-mounted

CL/99/21.10.24

The Clerk reported she had a reply from Mr Jones of Parc Eryri and noted that he stated the wall would not be strong enough due to recent problems with the foundations and the noticeboard needed to be free-standing as a result. The Clerk reported that the wall-mounted version weighs 80kg and the free-standing one weights 128kg. Cllr Hewins noted that the wall is 18 inches thick so should easily

take the weight. The Clerk reported that a free-standing noticeboard would cost over

27

£3,000 more. The Council felt that this is unreasonable and it was agreed that the Chair will speak to Mr Jones to explain the situation. 

The Council agreed in principle to share the noticeboard with Parc Eryri, though it was noted that the Clerk should have sole access to the content of the noticeboard. 

Action: Chair to contact Mr. Edward Jones of Parc Eryri.

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To discuss maintenance of CCTV cameras

CL/100/21.10.24

It was noted that some of the cameras need attention and it was agreed that Cllr Kelly would give the Clerk details of what needs to be done.

Action: Cllr Kelly to send details to the clerk

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

CL/101/21.10.24

* email regarding running a portable sauna business in Aberdyfi

It was agreed to support this business though the Council do not own any suitable land. 

Action: Clerk to contact business and offer support

* email regarding Cambrian Coast Railway Liaison meeting

It was agreed there is are no current concerns regarding this issue

* email regarding charity music festival in Aberdyfi

It was agreed that the Council do not own any suitable land for such an event and are unable to support it at this stage.

Action: Clerk to contact organiser

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

CL/102/21.10.24

* One Voice Wales – Training for September – December

* Transport for Wales – Future Timetable Review summary of responses and actions

* One Voice Wales – Rural Housing Action Guide for Wales survey

* One Voice Wales – reply from Welsh Government regarding rail timetable changes

* IRP for Wales draft annual reported

* One Voice Wales – Pethau Bychain notice of meeting

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/103/21.10.24

* Creation and adoption of new operating policies

* Shelter at cemetery 

* Community Action Plan

* Decide parking charges at Neuadd Dyfi car park and signage

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

CL/104/21.10.24

* Lord Lieutenant attendance at Remembrance services

* Fireworks 1^st November

28

* Clwb Sgwrsio 4^th November

* Events at Neuadd Dyfi

AGENDA ITEM 21 – Date of next meeting

CL/105/21.10.24

Monday 18^th November 2024

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9.20pm

29

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 16^th September 2024

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

2 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/67/16.09.24

Apologies accepted from Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/68/16.09.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and commented that the better weather recently has helped boost visitor numbers.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 15^th July2024.

CL/69/16.09.24

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/70/16.09.24

Page 12

M/158/(18.03.24) Playground RoSPA report

It has been recommended that the play equipment be visually inspected every week, so the Clerk and Chair agreed to purchase a checklist from RoSPA which is specific to our playground at a cost of £40 and the clerk will carry out the inspections.

Action: Clerk to do weekly inspections

Page 13

M/39/(17.06.24) To discuss recycling facilities and waste bins in Aberdyfi

The Clerk reported that it has been agreed with Gwynedd Council that the Community Council will pay for materials and Gwynedd Council will carry out the work to enclose the compound by the fire station. The Chair and Clerk agreed to pay £798 + VAT for the materials.

Action: Clerk to purchase a padlock once the work is finished. 

17

It was noted that the bins at the back of the Dovey still smell and that the bins

lining Church Street are becoming hazardous. It was agreed to keep an eye on both of these issues. The Clerk reported that there have been very few complaints about the bins this year and it was noted this was because there were more bins around the village and the street cleaner has been working hard to keep the village clean. It was agreed to write to him and thank him for his hard work.

Action: Clerk to write to the street cleaner. 

It was reported that the Crabbing Crate for re-using and recycling crabbing equipment was working well, though it was noted that some people put the equipment back while tangled and volunteers have to untangle the mess. The Community Council would like to thank the volunteers for organising this initiative and keeping the crate and contents clean and tidy.

Action: Clerk to put in Rushlight

M/52/(15.07.24) Gwynedd Council report

The Clerk reported that she had written to the Lord Lieutenant and has had a reply confirming his attendance at the Remembrance services in November.

Action: Clerk to put in Rushlight

Page 15

M/59/(15.07.24) Aberdyfi Food Festival

The Clerk reported that she had reviewed the Food Festival with the organisers and the general feedback from visitors was that it was very busy and the food vendors ran out of food by lunch-time, even although they had brought double the amount with them compared to last year. Cllr Williams reported that the stall-holders were happy with the close proximity of all the stalls to each other and were happy with the arrangement as it is. It was discussed whether to use the football filed next year, but it was pointed out that toilets would need to be brought in and people would have to stay at the entrance to the golf club car park to stop visitors parking there. It was also suggested that perhaps the demonstrations could be done in the Neuadd Dyfi, allowing more small stalls to be on the field. It is still a lot of work for the organisers, even with the help of the clerk, so they are not sure if they feel able to do it again. No decision was made and it was agreed a small working group including the organisers should meet before Christmas to make a decision.

Action: Volunteers from the Council to meet with organisers before Christmas

The Community Council would like to thank the organisers for their hard work on this event and also to everyone who help with setting up and taking down. 

Action: Clerk to write to organisers and put in Rushlight

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/71/16.09.24

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Kelly

18

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/72/16.09.24

Cllr Owen reported that various lines and markings have appeared on the road between the cemetery and Caethle to do with the cycle path, though the Clerk noted that planning permission has not yet been decided on for the cycle path. There are also markers on the road to do with the new gas pipe which will be installed along Happy Valley and between Happy Valley and Tywyn. There was speculation that the markings may also be linked to Dwr Cymru. 

Cllr Owen reported that there is a Harbour users meeting on 15^th October and asked if there are any issues that need to be brought up then. Cllr Bradbury-Willis mentioned that the Harbour staff were extremely helpful during Dovey Fest and she would like to thank them officially.

Action: Clerk to write to the Harbour master

Action: Chair to bring up at the harbour users meeting

Cllr O’Neill asked if ‘Do not feed the seagulls’ signs could be purchased as there has been a problem with them attacking people this year. She will send photos of some good signs she saw recently to the clerk.

Action: Chair to bring this up at the harbour users meeting.

The Chair reported that the Harbourmaster is due to move to the cabin by the end of the month and Gwynedd have said replacing the harbour office is at the top of their agenda. He will keep the Council informed of any developments.

He has reported the sand build up on the steps in front of the car park to Gwynedd Council but they do not seem to see this as a problem. He also spoke to them about replacing the railings with a wall, but there is no money for a wall to be built.

Action: Chair to keep raising these issues with Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/73/16.09.24

Cllr Kelly and Bradbury-Willis declared an interest in the first item

NP5/50/540A Chalet 59, Plas Panteidal, Aberdyfi LL35 0RF

Removal of Condition 2 (10 ½ months occupancy condition) attached to planning permission NP5/50/540A dated 26/07/2002 to allow 12 month occupancy (Personal Permission) 

No objections raised

NP5/50/767 Fairway, Corbett Lane, Aberdyfi. LL35 0RB

Alterations, demolition of conservatory and installation of cladding

No objections raised

NP5/50/769 12 Mynydd Isaf, Aberdyfi. LL35 0PH

Installation of external air-source heat pump

No objection raised

NP5/50/LB59D/E 14 Glandyfi Terrace, Aberdyfi. LL35 0EB

Alterations and extension to form garden room

No objection raised

19

NP5/50/735C Tan y Bryn, Philip Ave, Aberdyfi. LL35 0PY

Variation of Condition No. 2 (design) attached to planning permission NP5/50/735B dated 22/09/2022 for the installation of a flue on the roof 

No objection raised

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To review 2024/25 budget against income

CL/74/16.09.24

The budget was reviewed and agreed to be closely aligned with what was expected.

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To review council training plan and approve training courses

CL/75/16.09.24

Cllr Hackelsberger noted how important it is for the clerk to undertake the CiLCA qualification and the Chair noted that it is important for all councillors to do the Code of Conduct and Planning training. It was agreed to find out how much a bespoke Planning training course would be for the whole council so all councillors could do it at the same time. The Clerk reported that each Council has two free places on specific training courses provided by One Voice wales, such as Code of Conduct, and to let her know if interested in attending one of these courses. 

The Clerk reported that it may be possible to receive a bursary to cover training costs of CiLCA, though the extra 2-3 hours a week required by the Clerk to do the course will need to be paid for by the Council.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

Action: Clark to enrol on CiLCA training and apply for a bursary

Action: Councillors to tell Clerk what One Voice Wales training courses they wish to attend

Action: Clerk to request cost of providing a bespoke training course from Planning Aid Wales 

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To approve Clerk attendance at One Voice Wales conference

CL/76/16.09.24

It was agreed to fund attendance at the conference on 16^th October at Builth Wells, at a cost of £95 plus travelling expenses. The Clerk reported that she is hoping to share transport costs with the Clerk from Tywyn Town Council. 

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Owen

Action: Clerk to book place at the conference.

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss purchase of new P&D machine for Neuadd Dyfi car park

CL/77/16.09.24

It was agreed to purchase a new machine that has cash and contactless capabilities. 

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Kelley

20

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss purchase of digital noticeboard

CL/78/16.09.24

It was agreed to purchase a digital noticeboard to be sited on the wall of the Tourist Information Centre.

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Williams

Action: Clerk to write to Mr Edward Jones at Parc Eryri with details of type of noticeboard 

Action: Clerk to arrange purchase of noticeboard

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To receive update on playground project and approve amount of funds to be ring-fenced for the project

CL/79/16.09.24

Cllr O’Neill reported that she had had a meeting with the clerk, Resources 4 Change and the National Lottery and was advised to survey adults in relation to the playground project, even although the children and the Community Needs Survey had already been done. Resources 4 Change agreed to help with the survey and the survey is now live with online, QR code and hard copies available. It is hoped that the application for funding from the National Lottery would be submitted October or November and that other applications to bodies such as the Co-op would also be made. Cllr O’Neill pointed out that she will also approach the AA&I for funding. 

It was agreed to ring-fence £15,000 for the project

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

Action: Clerk to work with R4C on Lottery application

Action: Cllr O’Neill to apply to AA&I for funding

Action: Clerk to research and apply to other bodies for funding

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To discuss remedial work to Terrace Road shelter

CL/80/16.09.24

Cllrs Tyrrell and Hewins reported that they had requested 4 quotes with one person replying that they didn’t want the job and no replies from anyone else. Other names were suggested, which they will try. They suggested that someone is employed to do the ground works and they will do the other small jobs themselves. It was agreed to go ahead with this plan if they are unable to find someone to do all the work.

Proposed: Cllr Hewins Seconded: Cllr Owen

Action: Cllrs Hewins and Tyrrell to arrange repairs to the shelter

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To discuss maintenance of Time & Tide Bell

CL/81/16.09.24

Recently the bell needed some maintenance and it became clear that the original artist will not accept responsibility going forwards. It was agreed that the Community Council will take responsibility for the cost of maintenance going forward and will ask the AA&I for money should major costs be involved. Cllr Williams noted that the artist has handed over responsibility to someone else and their details are on the Time & Tide Bell website. Cllr Williams inspects the bell every week and will report any defects when they occur.

Action: Cllr Williams to continue inspections

21

Action: Clerk to obtain contact details of person responsible for the bell

Action: Clerk to inform Harbourmaster of this decision

Cllr O’Neill reported that she had been to one or two meetings of the Time & Tide Bell group and one of the other members based on Angelsey is proposing to visit Aberdyfi 9^th or 10^th October and will meet with Cllr O’Neill and anyone else who wishes to attend. 

Action: Cllr O’Neill to inform the rest of the Council of arrangements for the visit

Action: Clerk to inform Harbourmaster of visit

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To discuss wi-fi situation at the Literary Institute

CL/82/16.09.24

It was noted that there is now no wi-fi at the Institute and so there is no facility for remote attendance at Council meetings. It was agreed that this is not a Council issue and will be brought up at the next meeting of the Literary Institute Management Committee. Until the issue is resolved, meetings will need to be held at the Neuadd Dyfi if remote attendance is required. 

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

CL/83/16.09.24

* Gwynedd Council – refurbishment work to Aberdyfi wharf toilets

It was agreed for the clerk to keep in touch with Gwynedd Council to establish if they require further funding.

Action: Clerk to reply to Gwynedd Council

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

CL/84/16.09.24

* One Voice Wales – launch of Communities of Practice – Digital Community

* Democracy & Boundary Commission – Guide to the 2026 review of Senedd

Constituencies

* One Voice Wales – presentation by Parc Eryri to Meirionnydd Area Committee

* Gwynedd Council – consultation on extending dog control in certain open areas.

* One Voice Wales – Training for July, August & September

* Gwynedd Council – confirmation of Article 4 Direction for Gwynedd Planning Authority

* RSPB – ‘Changing Tides’ project

* One Voice Wales – Training for September – December

AGENDA ITEM 19 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/85/16.09.24

* Creation and adoption of new operating policies

* CCTV cameras

* Seagull signs

* Republishing of walking guides

22

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

CL/86/16.09.24

* Thanks for Food Festival

* Thanks for DoveyFest

* Lord Lieutenant attendance at Remembrance services

* Photos for walking guide

* Playground update

* Events at Neuadd Dyfi

AGENDA ITEM 21 – Date of next meeting

CL/87/16.09.24

Monday 21st October 2024

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9.05pm

23

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 15^th July 2024

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

1 member of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/47/15.07.24

Apologies accepted from Cllrs Dunton, O’Neill and Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/48/15.07.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and commented that the continuing bad weather has been affecting visitor numbers throughout North Wales.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting on 17^thJune 2024.

CL/49/15.07.24

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/50/15.07.24

Page 7

M/158/(18.03.24) Playground RoSPA report

The paint has been delivered and as soon as there two clear dry days, Cllrs Hewins and Dunton will paint the playground equipment.

Page 9

M/37/(17.06.24) Possible maintenance contract and / or new P&D machine at Neuadd Dyfi car park

The clerk is still waiting for a quote

M/38/(17.06.24) To review 20mph limits in Aberdyfi

The clerk reported that there have been well over 50 signatures, the vast majority expressing that they want to keep the 20mph limit in Aberdyfi. She will contact Gwynedd Council tomorrow with this information.

The Chair reported that he had spoken to Andrews Gregson and asked for 20mph signs to be painted on the road.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council

12

M/39/(17.06.24) To discuss recycling facilities and waste bins in Aberdyfi

The clerk reported that she has had several phone calls, emails and meetings with various people from Gwynedd Council and has been told that the public recycling bins in the main car park will have new stickers put on and that Holiday Let businesses who do not prove they are paying for their waste to be removed will automatically be billed for the service. She had a meeting with Highways Waste enforcement and discussed blocking in the area by the fire station completely, with a roof and locked gate, so that only businesses have access to that area and she is now in the process of moving this forward. It has also been suggested that the business recycling facilities be placed in the compound at the edge of the village and she is investigating this possibility.

It was noted that the area behind the Dovey Inn is becoming very smelly and messy and it was agreed for the Chair to speak to the Dovey Inn. 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council 

Action: Chair to speak to the Dovey Inn

Page 10

M/40/(17.06.24) To discuss remedial work to Terrace Road shelter

Cllr Hewins reported that he had asked 3 companies for quote and only one had replied, saying they didn’t want to quote. He will try again with other companies.

Action: Cllr Hewins to try to obtain quotes 

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/51/15.07.24

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/52/15.07.24

Cllr Owen reported that there had only been a very few meetings due to the recent election and noted that Gwynedd Council would be discussing Article 4 proposals tomorrow, the 16^th July. 

He reported that he has been led to believe that the proposal to build pylons along the length of Wales may be changed and the lines will go underground. He also reported that there is a new gas pipeline being laid between Cwrt and Tywyn through Happy Valley though it is unlikely the work will happen until later in the year. 

There are proposals for proportional representation at local Council level and consultation will start soon.

He had been approached and asked if the Lord Lieutenant of Gwynedd, Edmund Bailey, would be able to attend our Remembrance Day service. He normally goes to Bangor or Caernarfon but would like to come to Aberdyfi this year. It was agreed to speak to David Richardson, the local British Legion representative and write to the Lord Lieutenant requesting his presence. 

Action: Chair to speak to Mr Richardson

Action: Clerk to write to the Lord Lieutenant

Action: Clerk to put in Rushlight closer to the time

13

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/53/15.07.24

NP5/50/766 The Gables, Balkan Hill, Aberdyfi. LL35 0LA

Alterations and extensions including raised decking

No objections raised

NP5/50/762 Four Winds, 3 Corbett Lane, Aberdyfi. LL35 0RB

Construction of detached garage with level parking area, formation of decking area, alterations to pedestrian access and dwelling alterations. Amended plans

No objections raised

AGENDA ITEM 8 – An opportunity to comment on proposed parking restrictions at 38 Maes Newydd, Aberdyfi LL35 0PD

CL/54/15.07.24

This parking application had been withdrawn so was not discussed

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive the 2024 RoSPA report

CL/55/15.07.24

It was noted that there were no major points of concern in the report and it was noted that the painting of equipment will still be undertaken, the benches will still be bolted down and repairing the surface of the helter-skelter will be researched. It was agreed to investigate if anything can be done to improve the edge of the wet pour surface.

Action: Cllr Hewins and Cllr Dunton to investigate these issues

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To receive a verbal report on Ardal Ni 2035 meeting

CL/56/15.07.24

The clerk reported that Gwynedd Council and One Voice Wales are encouraging local Councils to work together more closely in order to solve common problems and as such, she has attended meetings on Youth Engagement and Community Transport. There will be another one this week on Community Transport to which all Councillors are invited. It was agreed transport is a big issue in our area.

Action: Clerk to attend Community Transport meeting and report.

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To receive a verbal report on the Plastic Free Aberdyfi project

CL/57/15.07.24

Cllr Porter gave an update on the project. A crabbing crate has been purchased and is located on the wharf so that people can borrow crabbing equipment and return used crabbing kits to the crate. Signs explaining about the crate and guidelines for its use will be arriving soon and a rota of volunteers will look after it. The water bottles will be arriving soon. They will be double-walled aluminium decorated with the Aberdyfi logo.

14

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To delegate powers to the Chair and Clerk until the September meeting

CL/58/15.07.24

It was agreed to delegate powers

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To discuss Aberdyfi Food Festival arrangements

CL/59/15.07.24

The clerk reminded the Council that this event will take place on Sunday 18^th August and volunteers will be required to help set up and take down. A water supply will be required and a battery-powered PA system is being sought. The clerk will organise an events box to contain items that might be required for various events such as a first aid kit, duct tape etc.

Action: Clerk to purchase items for an events box

Action: Councillors to help set up and take down on the day

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

CL/60/15.07.24

* Letter regarding people blocking pavements and roads

It was agreed that the issues raised within the letter are outwith the jurisdiction of the Community Council and the Clerk should refer the author to the relevant departments of Gwynedd Council.

Action: Clerk to reply

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

CL/61/15.07.24

* One Voice Wales – training for July, August & September

* Planning Aid Wales – training

* Griffith’s – New Dyfi Bridge newsletter

* One Voice Wales – Councils Connect: Community Transport

* One Voice Wales – Cost of Living Crisis forum

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/62/15.07.24

* Creation and adoption of new operating policies

* Purchase of new P&D machine

* Training plan review

* Digital noticeboard

* Cycle path between Cemetery & village

* CCTV cameras

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

CL/63/15.07.24

* Food Festival

* DoveyFest

15

* RNLI service & blessing of boat

* Aberdyfi Bike Ride

* Rowing events – Cardigan Bay Challenge, sculling and rowing race events

* Tea Dance

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Date of next meeting

CL/64/15.07.24

Monday16th September 2024

AGENDA ITEM 19 – Motion to exclude the Press and Public in accordance with section 2A of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960

CL/65/15.07.24

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Hewins

AGENDA ITEM 20 – To receive a report on the AA&I

CL/66/15.07.24

The clerk gave a report on the AA&I 

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9.05pm

16

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 17^th June 2024

Present: Cllr Dewi Owen – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

3 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/29/17.06.24

Apologies accepted from Cllrs Hewins and O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/30/17.06.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and noted that the sun is shining and he hopes it continues, which will hopefully increase visitor numbers, as business has been slow so far due to the bad weather.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Annual Council meeting on 20^th May2024.

CL/31/17.06.24

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/32/17.06.24

Page 3

M/158/(18.03.24) Playground RoSPA report

Cllrs Hewins, Owen and the Clerk have agreed on colours and Cllrs Dunton & Hewins will paint the playground equipment when the paint is delivered. The Clerk will order paint and has obtained signs and barrier tape. 

The Clerk reported that the wet pour has been mended.

The Clerk reported that Cllr O’Neill and herself recently had a meeting with Resources4Change, as they are able to help with writing grant applications. Cllr O’Neill proposed that we employ them to help with a National Lottery grant application, with a view to the Clerk writing a draft application before giving it to R4C to review. R4C will charge £425 per day and envisage one to two weeks of work if writing the application from scratch so this will hopefully be less if the clerk does an initial draft first.

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Porter

7

Page 4

M/172/(16.04.24) Remedial work to compass feature in wharf gardens

The clerk reported that this work has now been completed.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/33/17.06.24

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/34/17.06.24

Cllr Owen reported that there had been a meeting with the Chief Executive recently and Gwynedd Council have estimated they will have a £36 million shortfall over the next 3 years. The Chief Executive noted that there will be a need for many cuts, probably including streamlining staff at Headquarters, amalgamating departments and passing work and costs down to Town and Community Councils. 

Head of Highways for Gwynedd Council met with Welsh Government officials last week at Dyfi Bridge to discuss the issues raised regarding safety. The Government officials couldn’t understand why it was a junction and not a roundabout and they noted that the signs are too close to the junction. They were shocked at how wide the pavement was outside the cottages and an accident actually happened while they were there. Cllr Owen is confident changes will be made both at the junction and by the cottages.

He reported that Transport for Wales have reconsidered the proposed cancellation of train services on the Cambrian Coast line. He noted that the guards have reported several trains recently have been extremely full, with passengers standing and blocking the aisles. This has meant that the guards have been unable to take payment as they couldn’t reach people in the carriages before they left the train. This has resulted in user numbers becoming skewed and looking as if the trains aren’t being used when in fact the opposite is true. Cllr Owen has asked Transport for Wales to look into this issue.

He reported that Gwynedd Council cabinet met last week and he understands that funding for a new Harbourmaster’s office has been agreed. It will house an office, toilet and kitchen and as soon as plans have been drawn up, he will bring them to the Community Council. It was asked for Cllr Owen to request that a dedicated area for business bins be incorporated into the plans for the harbourmaster’s office. 

Action: Cllr Owen to request dedicated area for business bins

Cllrs Owen, O’Neill and the Clerk attended a meeting last week of the Ardal Ni 2035 project. The meeting was attended by representatives from Aberdyfi, Bryncrug and Tywyn Councils, Tywyn Tourism Group and the Community Hub. Gwynedd Council noted that funding for individual projects is going to become more scarce and larger scale projects will be more successful, so suggested the group look at joint projects going forward. It was agreed to meet every 6 months to review current projects and look at possible joint projects.

8

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/35/17.06.24

NP5/50/159B 3 Melin Ardudwy, Aberdyfi LL35 0RY

Amended plans for demolition of garage and the erection of a two storey side extension

No objections raised

NP5/50/562U Chalet N, Plas Panteidal, Aberdyfi. LL35 0RF

Variation of condition No. 6 attached to planning permission NP5/42/160A dated 21/04/1976 to extend the occupation period from 8 up to 11 months in any calendar year.

It was agreed to write in support of this application

Action: Clerk to write to Parc Eryri

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To discuss and approve Councillor’s renumeration for 2023-24

CL/36/17.06.24

It was agreed that Councillors will be able to claim reimbursement from the clerk for any consumables used during the course of their work, up to £52.

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell Seconded: Cllr Williams

Councillors completed forms regarding the £156 home working allowance.

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To discuss taking out a maintenance contract for P&D machine for Neuadd Dyfi car park and the possibility of purchasing a new machine

CL/37/17.06.24

This item was not able to be discussed as a quote had not been received.

Action: Clerk to add to July agenda

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To review 20mph limits in Aberdyfi

CL/38/17.06.24

It was agreed to put this in Rushlight, on Facebook and a sheet in the Reading Room to ask for people’s opinions, before submitting comments from the Community Council

Action: Clerk to arrange

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To discuss recycling facilities and waste bins in Aberdyfi

CL/39/17.06.24

It was agreed to write to Gwynedd Council to request that they closely monitor and enforce the recycling and waste rules for holiday lets, as there are a lot of visitors staying in the village saying they have been told to put their waste in the bins on the car park. It was agreed to request that the promised improvements to the recycling bins in the car park be done urgently, with new labels and more bins put in place. It was agreed to buy two CCTV signs and place them by the bins at the Fire Station end of the car park. 

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council and buy two CCTV signs.

9

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To discuss remedial work to Terrace Road shelter

CL/40/17.06.24

Cllr Tyrrell reported that he and Cllr Hewins had visited the shelter and identified several things that needed repair. He proposed that the Council approve spending up to £500 for the repairs, which will be overseen by Cllr Hewins and himself. Quotes will be requested prior to making a decision and if more than £500 is required, it will be brought back to the full council for a decision.

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

Action: Cllrs Tyrrell & Hewins to obtain quotes and arrange repairs 

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To receive a verbal report and discuss the possibility of pylons being built throughout Wales

CL/41/17.06.24

Kathy Gale gave a short report on the research she has done on the plans by National Grid ESO and the Welsh Government to build a double line of pylons from Bangor to Swansea, passing close to Dolgellau and Machynlleth. She reported that until November 2023 it was proposed to go under the sea, but the Welsh Government decided to bring the project forward so changed the plan to pylons. Kathy reported that there are also plans for pylons to be built in the Towy Valley and there is an action group already fighting this, so she would like to make this a Wales-wide action group and asked for the support of the Community Council in doing this. It was agreed to support Kathy in her efforts and to keep the topic as a rolling agenda item. It was agreed for Cllr Owen to talk to Parc Eryri about the issue.

Action: Council to support and Clerk to put in Rushlight and on Facebook

Action: Cllr Owen to contact Parc Eryri

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

CL/42/17.06.24

* Email regarding a Bike Repair Station

The clerk reported that Gwynedd Council have some bike repair stations to give away for free so she has expressed an interest in having one in Aberdyfi. She has spoken to the Neuadd Dyfi about siting it there.

It was agreed that this is a good idea and it is hoped we are successful.

Action: Clerk to arrange

* Email from Aberdyfi Ice Cream Shop

The clerk confirmed that the comments made by the Council regarding the original Canolfan Dyfi lease was accurate, as she was the first tenant of one of the business units and there was a clause in the lease preventing her from having a cafe. It was agreed to retract the comments made on the planning application.

The clerk reported that the Council are currently unable to stream meetings as there is no wi-fi in the meeting room to facilitate this.

Action: Clerk to contact Parc Eryri

10

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

CL/43/17.06.24

* Email regarding BBC article on X-Troop

* Email regarding portacabin on the wharf

AGENDA ITEM 16 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/44/17.06.24

* Creation and adoption of new operating policies

* Purchase of new P&D machine

* Training plan review

* Digital noticeboard

* Food Festival organisation & help

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

CL/45/17.06.24

* Pylons

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next meeting

CL/46/17.06.24

Monday15th July 2024

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 9.05pm

11

Minutes of the thirty-ninth annual meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 20^th May 2024

Present: Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Brian Kelly

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Dewi Owen

Cllr Dave Williams

4 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/1/20.05.24

Apologies accepted from Cllr Bradbury-Willis, Reynolds and Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Election of Chair of Aberdyfi Community Council for the year 2024-25

CL/2/20.05.24

Cllr Dewi Owen was elected Chair

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Dunton

Cllr Williams proposed a vote of thanks to the outgoing Chair.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive the Chair’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office

CL/3/20.05.24

The Declaration of Acceptance of the role of Chair was received.

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Election of Vice Chair of Aberdyfi Community Council for the year 2024-25

CL/4/20.05.24

Cllr O’Neill was elected Vice Chair

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

AGENDA ITEM 5 – To receive the Vice Chair’s declaration of Acceptance of Office

CL/5/20.05.24

The Declaration of Acceptance of the role of Vice Chair was received

AGENDA ITEM 6 – To resolve to dissolve the Planning Committee

CL/6/20.05.24

It was agreed to dissolve the planning committee

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Kelly

1

AGENDA ITEM 7 – To resolve to dissolve the Allotment Committee

CL/7/20.05.24

It was agreed to dissolve the allotment committee

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger  Seconded: Cllr Hewins

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To review the Terms of Reference for the Finance committee

CL/8/20.05.24

The Terms of reference for the Finance Committee were reviewed and accepted

AGENDA ITEM 9 – Appointment of members to the Finance committee

CL/9/20.05.24

Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Tyrrell and Williams were elected to the Finance Committee

AGENDA ITEM 10 – Appointment of members to outside bodies

CL/10/20.05.24

Members were appointed to the following outside bodies:

10.1 Aberdyfi Advertising and Improvements Committee

All councillors except Cllr Tyrrell

10.2 Aberdyfi Literary Institute

Cllr Porter

10.3 Harbour Advisory Committee

Cllr Tyrrell

10.4 Neuadd Dyfi Management Committee – councillors with a vote

Cllrs Hewins, Kelly, Owen, Reynolds and Williams

10.5 Caravan Site Committee

Cllrs Bradbury-Willis, Kelly, Owen, Reynolds and Williams

10.6 Richard Williams and Richards Roberts Trust Fund

Cllr Reynolds (Chair), Bradbury-Willis, Owen, Porter with Cllr Williams as Trustee

10.7 Lewis Lloyd Trust

Cllr Reynolds

10.8 Tywyn and District memorial hospital Appeal Fund

Cllr Reynolds with Cllr Tyrrell as deputy

10.9 One Voice Wales

Cllrs O’Neill and Owen, with Cllr Williams as deputy

10.10 Meirionnydd Access Group

Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 11 –  To approve dates of Council meetings 2024-25

CL/11/20.05.24

It was agreed to continue to hold meetings every third Monday in the month, with the exception of August. It was agreed to bring forward the date of the April meeting by 1 week, as the third Monday in April is Easter Monday. 

2024: 17^th June, 15^th July, 16^th September, 21^st October, 18^th November, 16^th December 2025: 20^thJanuary, 17^th February, 17^th March, 14^th April, 19^th May (Annual meeting)

2

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To review and adopt Standing Orders

CL/12/20.05.24

It was agreed to adopt the Standing Orders

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr Hewins

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To review and adopt Financial Regulations

CL/13/20.05.24

It was agreed to adopt the Financial Regulations

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To review list of Council Assets

CL/14/20.05.24

It was queried whether Picnic Island Bridge should be on the Asset Register.

Action: Clerk to clarify if this is the case

AGENDA ITEM 15 – Appointment of Internal Auditor for 2024/25

CL/15/20.05.24

It was agreed to appoint Steve Lister as Internal Auditor

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Kelly

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To receive and confirm minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of the Council held on 15^th April 2024

CL/16/20.05.24

Proposed: Cllr Kelly Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 17 – Matters arising

CL/17/20.05.24

Page 53

M/128/(15.01.24) Toilets closed on Christmas and Boxing Day

The clerk has had a reply from Gwynedd Council to our proposal for the street cleaner to oversee the toilets on these days, saying that they don’t know the street cleaner and the rotas have not yet been set, so they are unable to consider our request at the present time.

Action: Clerk to reply that we will be in touch closer to the time to arrange details

It was agreed to ask for a plan of the refurbishments planned for the toilets before it goes ahead

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council over the summer to request the plans. 

M/158/(18.03.24) RoSPA report

Cllr Hewins and Dunton inspected the helter-skelter and found the metal to be structurally sound, though needs painting. Cllr Hewins contacted a paint company and confirmed what procedure needs to be followed and what paint can be used. Cllr Hewins and Dunton offered to undertake the work if the council buys the paint and Cllr O’Neill offered to meet with them to decide which colours should be bought. 

Cllr Hewins will try to source a suitable metal box to store any surplus paint. 

Action: Cllr O’Neill to meet with Cllr Hewins to decide colours

3

Action: Cllrs Dunton & Hewins to paint the metalwork on the helter-skelter and other equipment. 

Action: Clerk to arrange signs and barrier tape to be erected while the work is being done. 

Page 55

M/172/(15.04.24) Remedial work to compass feature in wharf gardens

This work was carried out last week 

Action: Clerk to write to thank them for doing such a good job. 

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Treasurer’s report

CL/18/20.05.24

Proposed: Cllr Kelly  Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

AGENDA ITEM 19 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/19/20.05.24

Beca Roberts has been appointed Chair and Ioan Thomas Vice Chair of Gwynedd Council.

AGENDA ITEM 20 – Planning

CL/20/20.05.24

Cllr Hewins declared an interest in the Bryn Awel application

NP5/50/LB65D Bryn Awel, 26 Sea View Terrace, Aberdyfi LL35 0LL

Listed building consent for replacement bridge

No objections raised

NP5/50/L253 11 Church Street, Aberdyfi. LL35 0ES

Installation of dark grey composite decking and stainless-steel posts with glass infill panels in lieu of existing timber decking, posts and balustrade

No objections raised

NP5/50/760 Tŷ Nain, Balkan Hill, Aberdyfi LL35 0LB

Extension to dwelling including a balcony

No objections raised

NP5/50/532H Unit 2, Wharf Gardens, Aberdyfi LL35 0EE

Amended description and plan: 

Installation of bi-fold doors in lieu of sliding window and extending A3 use to outdoor area for consumption of food and drink purchased from the property. 

It was agreed to write that this sets a dangerous precedent and while the final decision to use the land lies with Gwynedd Council Maritime department, we feel it goes against the policy that was put in place when the Canolfan Dyfi was built, that the rooms upstairs were not to be used for a cafe, as it would give an unfair advantage to those businesses.

Action: Clerk to write to Parc Eryri

NP5/50/635D 17 Mynydd Isaf, Aberdyfi LL35 0PH

Extension to residential property and the installation of a green type roof above existing garage.

No objections raised

4

AGENDA ITEM 21 – To review and approve annual return

CL/21/20.05.24

The annual return was approved unanimously

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Hewins

AGENDA ITEM 22 – To discuss and approve specification for painting playground equipment

CL/22/20.05.24

It was agreed to approve the specification under agenda item 17

AGENDA ITEM 23 – To receive report on BCUHB workshop attended by Cllr Reynolds

CL/23/20.05.24

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

CL/24/20.05.24

* Email regarding annual community meeting

Action: Clerk to reply

* Email regarding pump for clearing slipway

It was felt this should be referred to the AA&I

* Email regarding Ardal Ni 2035 draft plan

Action: Cllr O’Neil and the clerk to attend the meeting on 13^th June

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

CL/25/20.05.24

* Email regarding possible plans for energy link from North to South Wales

* Email from Dafydd Meurig containing link to Cyngor Gwynedd report on Article 4

* Email from Wales Air Ambulance regarding changes to their provision.

* Complaint from resident regarding parasols on the pavement opposite the Britannia Inn.

* Email from The Britannia Inn regarding various issues

AGENDA ITEM 26 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/26/20.05.24

* To discuss a maintenance plan for the Neuadd Dyfi P&D machine

* To discuss issues with burst water pipes in the area

* To discuss if any changes to 20mph speed limit in Aberdyfi are desired

* To discuss possible plans for pylons to be erected from North to South Wales 

* To discuss possibility of having a bike maintenance station in the village

* Terrace Road shelter maintenance

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

CL/27/20.05.24

* D-Day flag and celebrations

* Time & Tide Bell

5

* Community meeting attended by Gwynedd Council, not Parc Eryri

* Air Ambulance petition

* Charging points working

* Clwb sgwrsio

AGENDA ITEM 28 – Date of next meeting

CL/28/20.05.24

Monday 17^th June 2024

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.45pm

6

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 15th April 2024

Present: Councillors:

Cllr Brian Kelly – Chair

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton
Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Dewi Owen
Cllr Sadie Porter
Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

4 members of the public were present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies CL/163/15.04.24
Apologies accepted from Cllr Tyrrell

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements
CL/164/15.04.24
The Chair welcomed everyone and noted that the village seemed busy at Easter, despite the bad weather.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 18th March 2024.
CL/165/15.04.24
Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising CL/166/15.04.24

Page 48
M/95/(20.11.23) Village noticeboard
A quote was accepted and work to refurbish the noticeboard was approved. Proposed: Cllr Porter Seconded: Cllr O’Neill

M/128/(15.01.24) Toilets closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day

The clerk had spoken to the street cleaner and he offered to look after the toilets on both days, cleaning and replenishing toilet paper if required. The clerk wrote to Gwynedd Council offering this as a solution, but no reply yet.

Page 51
M/158/(18.03.24) Playground RoSPA report
* Cllr Dunton & Cllr Hewins have not yet had a chance to fully inspect the helter- skelter due to the bad weather.

53

      

* Cllr Tyrrell arranged for a quote to be sent to the clerk for painting the equipment * Cllr O’Neill reported that very few grants are available to Community Councils and in the past other councils have set up a social enterprise in order to be able to apply for grants. She will continue to look into funding options. She reported that the quote has reduced by approximately £11,000 due to the price of materials going down.

* Cllr Hewins has removed the ends of the concrete benches and is researching the best way to secure the benches into the ground.
* The clerk has not contacted Abergynolwyn Council yet to see who paints their play equipment

* The inside of the helter-skelter has been cleaned
* GL Jones have said they will repair the wet pour as soon as practical but this has been hampered by the wet weather
* Cllr O’Neill reported that Machynlleth sold their redundant play equipment to Dyfi Reclamation but is not sure if this company still exists.
Action: Cllrs Dunton & Hewins to inspect the helter-skelter
Action: Cllr Hewins to report on best method of securing benches to the ground Action: Clerk to contact Abergynolwyn council regarding painting play equipment Action: Clerk to get specification for paint from GL Jones
Action: Cllr Hewins to create specification for painting the play equipment Action: Cllr O’Neill to research funding opportunities

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report
CL/167/15.04.24
Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report
CL/168/15.04.24
Cllr Owen reported that there have been no meetings at Gwynedd Council due to the Easter break. He reported that a Gwynedd council worker had spoken to him last week and told him that work is planned to start on the cycle path between Caethle and the Cemetery next month. The Community Council had previously been told that funding has not yet been found, so it unclear if this will happen.

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning CL/169/15.04.24

NP5/50/532H Unit 2, Wharf Gardens, Aberdyfi LL35 0EE

Installation of bi-fold doors in lieu of sliding window and extending A3 use of covered area included within lease on Unit 2 for consumption of food and drink purchased from the property.
Objections raised by two councillors. Cllr Reynolds stated that Coast was previously refused planning permission to sell takeaway.

NP5/50/762 Four Winds, 3 Corbett Lane, Aberdyfi. LL35 0RB

Construction of detached garage with level parking area, formation of decking area, alterations to pedestrian access and dwelling alterations
No objections were raised, but the access problems were noted

54

   

NP5/50/400FLand to rear of Greenhill Bungalow, Copperhill Street, Aberdyfi. LL35 0HF
Construction of 2 detached sheds to store equipment and machinery to maintain adjacent land

No objections were raised but the dispute over access was noted

NP5/50/159B 3 Melin Ardudwy, Aberdyfi. LL35 0RY

Demolition of garage and the erection of two storey side extension
Cllr O’Neill declared an interest in this item
No objections were raised
Action: Clerk to raise access problems with Parc Eryri for Four Winds and Greenhill Bungalow applications

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To note new salary scale for the clerk CL/170/15.04.24
It was noted that the clerk moved up one point on the salary scale on 1st April 2024

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To discuss and approve wording for licence to occupy the football field
CL/171/15.04.24
The amendments to the wording were approved and the clerk to send the amendments to the Golf Club for approval.

Action: Clerk to send amendments to the Golf Club for approval

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To agree and approve remedial work to compass feature in wharf gardens
CL/172/15.04.24
A quote was accepted and remedial work to the compass approved Proposed: Cllr Bradbury-Willis Seconded: Cllr Williams

Action: Clerk to arrange for work to be carried out

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To agree and approve remedial work to Terrace Road shelter
CL/173/15.04.24
It was agreed to wait until Cllr Tyrrell is present to make a decision.

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To receive quote and approve repairs to the bus shelter
CL/174/15.04.24
It was agreed to go ahead with repairs

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To receive quote and approve painting of playground equipment
CL/175/15.04.24
It was unclear if the paint specified in the quote was suitable and it was agreed to further research what type of paint should be used.

55

      

Action: Cllr Hewins to create specification for painting play equipment Action: Clerk to ask GL Jones what paint they use and how much is needed

AGENDA ITEM 14 – To discuss request from Golf Club to provide more dog poo bins
CL/176/15.04.24
It was agreed to ask the Golf Club if they will pay half the cost of a dog poo bin at Trefeddian crossing.

Action: Clerk to contact Golf Club

AGENDA ITEM 15 – To discuss how to respond to Parc Eryri Article 4 planning proposals
CL/177/15.04.24
It was agreed to write to Parc Eryri objecting to the proposals and to request that someone from Parc Eryri and / or Gwynedd Council attend the community meeting next week to give more information on the proposals.

Action: Clerk to write to Parc Eryri
Action: Cllr Owen to invite representatives of Gwynedd Council and / or Parc Eryri to the community meeting

AGENDA ITEM 16 – To discuss effects of new recycling regulations in the village
CL/178/15.04.24
It was noted that Aberdyfi Community Council have no jurisdiction over bins in the village and they suspect that there will be teething problems initially. It was agreed to bring up the issue at the community meeting and to monitor the situation over the summer.

Action: Clerk to put on agenda of community meeting
Cllr Owen reported that there has been a lot of fly-tipping recently in the lay-by beyond Braich y Celyn Hall where the railings have been damaged.
Action: Clerk to write to Network Rail regarding the issue

AGENDA ITEM 17 – To note correspondence not requiring a decision from the Community Council
CL/179/15.04.24
* Email regarding drop-in events on Gwynedd Council housing schemes

AGENDA ITEM 18 – Items for consideration at future meetings CL/180/15.04.24
* Water situation in Aberdyfi and frequency of burst pipes

AGENDA ITEM 19 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook CL/181/15.04.24

•   Article 4 proposals
•   Date & Agenda of Community meeting
•   Welsh Language sessions56

     

•   Water fountain
•   Plastic Free Aberdyfi
• AGENDA ITEM 20 – Date of next meeting CL/182/15.04.24
  Monday 20th May 2024There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.55pm

57

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 18^th March 2024

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

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

1 member of the public was present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/146/18.03.24

Apologies accepted from Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/147/18.03.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and thanked Cllr Hackelsberger for organising the work to tidy and plant up the main car park. He also thanked all the volunteers who helped and noted how much better the car park looks now. He reminded everyone that there is a meeting of the AA&I next Monday.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 19^thFebruary 2024.

CL/148/18.03.24

Proposed: Cllr Tyrrell Seconded: Cllr Reynolds

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/149/18.03.24

Page 44

M/94/(20.11.23) Removing grass cuttings from Maes Newydd playground

It was agreed to continue negotiations with Gwynedd Council with a view to them removing the grass cuttings.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council again

M/95/(20.11.23) Village noticeboard

The clerk is still waiting for a quote

Page 45

M/128/(15.01.24) Toilets closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day

The clerk shared an email she had received from Gwynedd Council, stating that the

48

public toilets can not be opened on these days, as it is unfair to expect the cleaners to have 3 days worth of cleaning to do when they return to work. It was agreed to reply, stating again that we don’t expect them to be cleaned on those days.

Action: Clerk to reply

Page 46

M/139/(19.02.24) Golf club licence to use football field

The clerk still hasn’t heard from the Golf Club regarding this issue

Action: Cllr Williams to remind the Golf Club that they need to review the lease

M/142/(19.02.24) Ear wax removal at Tywyn Health Centre

The clerk has had it confirmed that this service will be offered again at Tywyn as soon as funding becomes available

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/150/18.03.24

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

It was noted that both savings accounts have now been opened.

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/151/18.03.24

Cllr Owen reported that at the full meeting of the council, it was agreed to increase Council Tax by 9.5%, which equates to £2.14 a week for Band D. He realises this a large increase and gave the clerk a helpline phone number for people who are struggling to pay their Council Tax. She will advertise this number on social media and in Rushlight.

He reported that the board of Gwynedd Council met in the Yacht Club earlier today and he was invited to join them for lunch. He discussed many of the issues in the village such as the problems with sand encroaching into the village and they responded that they understand our problems a lot better having been here. He hoped that some of the problems may start to be remedied as a result.

At the Harbour Users meeting, Cllr Owen was told that interviews for a new deputy-harbourmaster are being held imminently and a new Beach Warden for the area has been appointed. At the meeting the harbourmaster reported that he now has a drone so is able to check on moorings and buoys much easier. He also reported that mooring and launch fees are increasing by £10 this year. 

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/152/18.03.24

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

Retrospective application to relocate existing condensing unit to its former location at side of property.

New description and amended plan for application

No objections were raised

49

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To discuss purchase of flag for D-Day 80^th anniversary

CL/153/18.03.24

It was resolved to buy a 5’ x 3’ flag at a cost of £28.80.

Proposed: Cllr Williams Seconded: Cllr Hewins

Action: Clerk to purchase flag and arrange hoisting

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To receive a report on meeting with Gwynedd Council regarding village public toilets

CL/154/18.03.24

Cllr Tyrrell reported that he, together with Cllr Reynolds and the clerk, met with a representative of Gwynedd Council to discuss refurbishment of both sets of public toilets. It was a very positive meeting and they were told that the refurbishment of the main toilets is due to start in the autumn, though there is likely to be less money for the refurbishment than previously hoped. It was agreed that the Community Council could possibly collaborate with Gwynedd Council to ensure that the toilets are refurbished to a good standard. The Councillors were told that that the reason our toilets are being refurbished and not ones in other towns is because ours are not vandalised. Once the main toilets are refurbished, we will continue to talk to Gwynedd Council and seek to get the Neuadd Dyfi toilets refurbished in the near future. 

Action: Clerk to remain in contact with Gwynedd Council

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To receive an update on cycle path project

CL/155/18.03.24

Cllr Tyrrell reported that he walked along the route between Trefeddian Terrace and the cemetery with the clerk and found that it was completely under water for a distance of approximately 100 metres so a board walk or other solution would be needed to allow cycles and pedestrians to travel freely. However, a board walk would cause problems for the energy companies who need to access that area with heavy machinery to maintain the overhead cables. The need to build a bridge across the stream at a different location on the proposed path was also discussed and it was agreed that this section of cycle path is a much more complicated project than initially envisaged. It was agreed to wait and see if Gwynedd Council obtain funding for the other part of the cycle path and if they are successful, then the Community Council will ask to work with them to complete the section between the cemetery and the village, as it was felt the project is too complicated for the Community Council to undertake on its own. 

It was noted that no decision has yet been made on the planning application for the section of cycle path between Caethle and the cemetery.

AGENDA ITEM 11 – To agree grants to be awarded

CL/156/18.03.24

Applications were received from several organisations and it was resolved to award £100 to each of Meirionnydd Young Farmers, Welsh Air Ambulance, Urdd Gobaith Cymru and Dail Dysynni.

It was noted that the grant to the Neuadd Dyfi for 2023/24 is £4,091.00 

Action: Clerk to distribute grants

50

AGENDA ITEM 12 – To agree date for Annual Community Meeting and discuss format and agenda

CL/157/18.03.24

It was agreed to hold the Annual Community Meeting on 22^nd April, with reports from the Community Council, AA&I, Neuadd Dyfi and Aberdyfi Community Projects Group followed by an open forum. 

Action: Clerk to advertise date and agenda

AGENDA ITEM 13 – To discuss RoSPA report and receive an update on Playground Project

CL/158/18.03.24

Cllr Tyrrell reported that he had found an identical helter-skelter to the one in Aberdyfi in Goodwick but which had been removed on Health and Safety grounds. The clerk contacted Goodwick and Pembrokeshire County Council and was told that they had spent a long time and exhausted all possibilities to get theirs fixed and as repairs were going to cost £10,000, it was removed. Cllr Dunton reported that the fibreglass is sound and that it is the gelcoat that is wearing, which can be repaired quite easily. 

The clerk reported that we have received planning permission for the new playground and Cllr O’Neill reported that most grants are not available to Community Councils. She also reported that she understood Machynlleth council had sold their redundant play equipment to a reclamation yard and she noticed that Abergynolwyn play equipment was being painted when she travelled through recently.

It was agreed to clean the inside of the helter-skelter, repair the gelcoat, remove the concrete bench ends and to organise painting of the other equipment.

The clerk reported she had contacted GL Jones who said they will repair the wet pour as soon as possible, but the wet weather has delayed work.

Action: Cllr Dunton to source someone to repair gelcoat

Action: Cllr Tyrrell to try to find someone to paint equipment

Action: Cllr O’Neill to research funding options

Action: Cllr Hewins to remove concrete bench ends and bolt down other benches

Action: Clerk to contact Abergynolwyn Council to ask who paints their play equipment

Action: Clerk to arrange cleaning of inside of helter-skelter

Action: Clerk to ask GL Jones for date of repair

Action: Clerk to find out how Machynlleth council disposed of their play equipment.

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Correspondence

CL/159/18.03.24

* Introduction of Strategic Development Plans.

The Chair reported that he and the clerk attended a meeting where Strategic Development Plans were explained, though no date has been given as to when they will be implemented. There will be 4 development plan areas and Aberdyfi will be in an area stretching from Aberdyfi up to Angelsey and across to Wrexham. The plans are envisaged to create more cohesive plans for these areas, such as transport and housing etc. but at the moment they are in the very early stages and who will be involved in creating the strategic plans has yet to be decided. 

51

* BCUHB update

The clerk reported that she had attended a meeting with representatives of BCUHB presenting on progress made one year on from being put in special measures. Improvements have been made in all areas, though generally these have only been small, and it was acknowledged that there is a long way to go. BCUHB have been working hard on creating closer links with staff and agencies such as the ambulance service and creating a more open culture so that improvements can be made from the bottom up rather than top-down. They will be holding face to face meetings throughout communities in Gwynedd this year to find out what local communities need and want to happen.

* Residents have expressed concerns about the new junction near Machynlleth as it is hard to see when travelling from Machynlleth and traffic coming from the other direction is travelling fast round a bend, so may well not be able to stop in time if someone is pulling out of the junction. It was agreed to write to Steffan Jones at Gwynedd Council.

Action: Clerk to write to Steffan Jones expressing the concerns of the Community Council

AGENDA ITEM 15 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/160/18.03.24

* Creation and adoption of new operating policies

* Training plan review

* Water situation in Aberdyfi and frequency of burst pipes

* Slate compass in wharf gardens

* Shelter on way to Penhelig

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

CL/161/18.03.24

• Council Tax helpline number
• Gwynedd Council Board meeting in village
• Date & Agenda of Community meeting
• Welsh Language sessions
• Neuadd Dyfi events

AGENDA ITEM 13 – Date of next meeting

CL/162/18.03.24

Monday 15^th April 2024

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

52

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 19^th February 2024

Present: Cllr Brian Kelly – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Dewi Owen

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Bob Tyrrell

Cllr Dave Williams

1 member of the public was present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/132/19.02.24

Apologies accepted from Cllr O’Neill

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/133/19.02.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and reported that it has been a very quiet month in the village.

AGENDA ITEM 3 – To receive and confirm minutes of the ordinary council meeting on 15^thJanuary 2023.

CL/134/19.02.24

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/135/19.02.24

Page 41

M/94/(20.11.23) Removing grass cuttings from Maes Newydd playground

The clerk has emailed Aled to see if he would be willing to remove the grass cuttings but has not yet had a reply.

Action: Clerk to chase up

M/95/(20.11.23) Village noticeboard

The clerk has asked Stuart Myring for a quote to refurbish the large white noticeboard but has not had a reply and has not yet asked Gwynedd Council if the lights are their responsibility. 

Action: Clerk to chase up Stuart Myring

Page 42

M/127/(15.01.24) To note new pension arrangements for the clerk

44

Cllr Porter reported that pension contributions have been paid for November, December and January and will be paid every month going forward. She has agreed the figure to be back-dated with Mr. Lister, so she will now arrange for this to be paid.

Proposed: Cllr Porter  Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

M/128/(15.01.24) Correspondence

Vehicle stuck in Cwm Maethlon

The clerk met with Andrew Gregson and asked if Gwynedd Council could put ‘do not follow satnav’ signs at each end of the valley. He agreed to look into it and it was noted that Pennal and Tywyn Councils have both asked for the same thing.

Toilets closed on Christmas and Boxing Day

The clerk is meeting with Bryn Hughes on 28^th February to discuss the cost of refurbishment of the Neuadd Dyfi toilets and will also ask him for the toilets to be open every day of the year. She will also ask him about the lights under the canopy and the blocked gutters at the main toilets

Action: Clerk to meet with Bryn Hughes.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/136/19.02.24

Proposed: Cllr Reynolds Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/137/19.02.24

Cllr Owen reported that there will be a full meeting of Gwynedd Council in two week’s time when the council tax rates will be set for the coming year. He has been told that the work at Dyfi Bridge is progressing well and they are hopeful of finishing at the end of next week, ie. beginning of March.

The greenery at the side of the road between the Penhelig and Outward Bound has now been cut back and has made a big difference to visibility for vehicles. He urged everyone to let him know if there are any other hedges/ overgrown areas on the roadside and he will arrange for them to be cut back. 

The footpath known as Lover’s Lane is in danger of becoming blocked by landslip if the shale that is piled next to it moves. This is especially concerning with the heavy rain recently experienced in Aberdyfi. 

Action: Clerk to inform Gwynedd Council.

Number 4 Maes Newydd has been bought by Gwynedd Council as part of their scheme to buy back local housing. This house will now be refurbished and let out to local residents.

Two new nurses have been recruited for Tywyn hospital, a new Nurse Practitioner for the GP practice and it is hoped that 3 GPs will join the practice full-time in the next few months. 

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/138/19.02.24

NP5/50/573B Rhos Awel, Aberdyfi LL35 0NR

45

Demolition of existing single storey extension and construct new single storey extension, and demolition and replacement of front boundary wall

No objections were raised

NP5/50/130D Bwlch Gwyn, Aberdyfi LL35 0SG

Construction of rural enterprise dwelling (re-submission)

No objections were raised and it was resolved to write in support of this application.

ME0452 Tides Inn, Aberdyfi LL35 0EE

Application to vary premises licence

Unanimously resolved to object on grounds of close proximity of residential properties and bedrooms of The Dovey Inn directly above the bar. 

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To approve Deed of Variation to the licence between Aberdyfi Community Council and Gwynedd Council

CL/139/19.02.24

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Hewins

It was noted that the Golf Club have not yet commented on the licence to use the football field sent to them for approval 

Action: Cllr Williams to chase up

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To agree to lead the campaign for Plastic Free Aberdyfi by example, to remove single use plastic items from the Council premises and operations, and to encourage plastic-free initiatives in the area, promoting the campaign for Plastic Free Aberdyfi and supporting its events.

CL/140/19.02.24

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Porter

Resolved unanimously

AGENDA ITEM 10 – To note grant awarded by Gwynedd Council for allotment improvementsand to approve installation of a communal greenhouse and other essential works to improve safety in the allotments.

CL/141/19.02.24

It was agreed to spend the money originally budgeted for the work on the trees on installing the greenhouse, creation of a communal compost area and replacement of handrail. 

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Williams

AGENDA ITEM 11 – Correspondence

CL/142/19.02.24

• Email regarding wax removal from ears at Tywyn Health Centre. A query was raised about why this service no longer being offered at the GP practice in Tywyn. Cllr Bradbury-Willis reported that in Hywel Dda Health board, this service is being moved to an out-patient service and will be carried out by a Health Board professional with specialist ear nurses being trained. She reported that locally a wax removal service is available from herself at Balance in Aberdyfi and Specsavers in Aberystwyth. 46Action: Clerk to ask what measures are being taken by Betsi Cadwaldr Health Board. 
• The clerk met with Andrew Gregson of Gwynedd Council regarding speed signs and he advised that current speed signs would not work in Aberdyfi due to cars parked along the side of the road. He also reported that the life cost of one camera is approximately £20,000. He said that smaller, mobilecameras are being trialled so suggested waiting to see if the technology and price make it a more feasible option for Aberdyfi. 
• Email from Arthog & Fairbourne Council asking if we are willing to donate helter-skelter slide. It was felt that this was not a feasible option, as there is no point in getting a new spiral slide if the helter-skelter is still useable. It was agreed to look more into extending the life of the helter-skelter. It was agreed to revisit the RoSPA report at the next meeting.Action: Cllrs Tyrrell and Dunton to research repairing the helter-skelterAction: Clerk to add to agenda for next month
• Free training on Strategic Development Plans
• Email regarding Westhaven apartments. It was agreed this it is not within the council’s remit to comment on the issue of UPVC windows.
• Email regarding BCUHB meetings this year. The clerk has asked to be informed when a meeting is held locally in order for Aberdyfi Councillors to attend.
• Cllr Hackelsberger reminded everyone that volunteers are needed on Saturday morning to help plant in the car park. 

AGENDA ITEM 12 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/143/19.02.24

RoSPA report

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

CL/144/19.02.24

• Congratulations on pantomime
• Community planting on 24^th February
• Community lunch 8^th March
• New photo ID required for voting
• Food Festival and Dovey Fest dates

AGENDA ITEM 14 – Date of next meeting

CL/145/19.02.24

Monday 18^th March 2024

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 8.40pm

47

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 15^th January 2024

Present: Cllr Brian Kelly – Chair

Councillors:

Cllr Sara Bradbury-Willis

Cllr Mark Dunton

Cllr Roman Hackelsberger

Cllr Ian Hewins

Cllr Catrin O’Neill

Cllr Sadie Porter

Cllr Megan Reynolds

Cllr Dave Williams

1 member of the public was present

AGENDA ITEM 1 – Apologies

CL/119/15.01.24

Apologies accepted from Cllrs Tyrrell and Owen

AGENDA ITEM 2 – Chair announcements

CL/120/15.01.24

The Chair welcomed everyone and reported that the person who vandalised the Christmas Tree lights had handed themselves into the police and will pay the cost of replacing the lights. He reported that he has been told of broken glass which has been found in the dunes on several occasions so has forwarded this information onto the harbour master. On Saturday there was a presentation to the previous sub-Post Mistress to thank her for all her work. 

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

CL/121/15.01.24

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Bradbury-Willis

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/122/15.01.24

Page 37

M/94/(20.11.23) Removing grass cuttings from Maes Newydd playground

The clerk has emailed Aled to see if he would be willing to remove the grass cuttings but has not yet had a reply.

M/95/(20.11.23) Village noticeboard

The clerk has asked Stuart Myring for a quote to refurbish the large white noticeboard but has not had a reply. The Chair reported that he had noticed there is a light under the canopy but it doesn’t work.

Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council and ask if this light is their responsibility.

41

M/96/(20.11.23) Main car park planting

A date has been set for Saturday 24^th February at 10am for the planting. The preparation work will be done beforehand by Cllr Hackelsberger and others. Posters have been put up in the village and on social media, asking for volunteers.

AGENDA ITEM 5 – Treasurer’s report

CL/123/15.01.24

Proposed: Cllr O’Neill Seconded: Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 6 – Gwynedd Council report

CL/124/15.01.24

No report as Cllr Owen was unable to attend the meeting

AGENDA ITEM 7 – Planning

CL/125/15.01.24

No Applications had been received

AGENDA ITEM 8 – To agree and approve precept for 2024-25

CL/126/15.01.24

It was resolved to set the precept at 4.5%.

Proposed: Cllr Hackelsberger Seconded: Cllr Porter

AGENDA ITEM 9 – To note new pension arrangements for the clerk

CL/127/15.01.24

Cllr Porter reported that she has enrolled the clerk in a pension scheme though is still investigating the issue of backdated payments. The clerk has been re-enrolled with the Pension Regulator.

AGENDA ITEM 10 – Correspondence

CL/128/15.01.24

• The Ardal Ni team will be working in the village from 22-26 January when they will continue with work on the lights in the main car park
• It has been confirmed that the road at Dyfi bridge will be closed from 10th February for up to 3 months. No mitigation has yet been received. It was thought that the route of the detour goes through Cwm Maethlon, not Talyllyn, and it was agreed to write to Gwynedd Council to ask for clarifictaion and to ensure that signs are put at each end of the valley. Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council
• It was reported that a large articulated vehicle got stuck on the hairpin corner in Cwm Maethlon recently and it was agreed to ask Gwynedd Council for permanent ‘do not follow satnav’ signs to be put at each end of the valley.Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council 
• Fly-tipping was reported by the main train station and it was agreed to contact Gwynedd Council with this information and ask if parking bays could be created to help stop this in the futureAction: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council42
• The clerk reported that both sets of toilets were closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day and as a result, the street cleaner had to clear up at least 5 sets of human faeces around the village. It was agreed to write to Gwynedd Council to request that they be left open, even if they can’t be cleaned on those days.Action: Clerk to contact Gwynedd Council
• Pont y Brics road is currently closed while the old changing rooms are being demolished. If people go across the level crossing instead, they MUST phone before crossing. 
• Car charging points should be connected within the next few weeks.

AGENDA ITEM 11 – Items for consideration at future meetings

CL/129/15.01.24

No items reported

AGENDA ITEM 12 – Items for release / Rushlight / Website / Facebook

CL/130/15.01.24

• New Year’s Day fundraiser
• Pantomime
• Community planting on 24^th February
• Ceilidh on 24^th February
• Community lunch 8^th February
• New photo ID required for voting
• 10^th February road closure

AGENDA ITEM 13 – Date of next meeting

CL/131/15.01.24

Monday 19^th February 2024

There being no further business, the Chair closed the meeting at 7.55pm

43

Minutes of the ordinary meeting of Aberdyfi Community Council held at the Literary Institute on Monday 18^th 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 20^thNovember 2023.

CL/105/18.12.23

Proposed: Cllr Owen Seconded: Cllr Hackelsberger

Unanimously agreed

AGENDA ITEM 4 – Matters arising

CL/106/18.12.23

Page 31

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

36

Page 32

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. 

Page 33

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. 

37

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

Page 34

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

38

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

39

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 15^th January 2024 at 7.00pm

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

40