MARCH 2016. Edition 3......

SUPPORTING OUR ARMED FORCES SEE PAGE 2 NNEWMPORT MATTERS

The of cial newspaper of

EVENT SAVED AND INVESTMENTS PLANNED IN BUDGET

Image courtesy of www.michaelhallphotography.co.uk

Newport City Council With a better than expected for events, such as Newport Food a ‘kick start’, thus helping Cllr Bright continued: has agreed its budget for settlement from the Welsh Festival, have also been taken to maintain Newport’s “ These pressures are requirements the forthcoming year with Government, it also means the out of the savings proposals. position as the best place that have to be met. They amount council tax set to increase council can reduce the amount of in to start a business. to nearly £4.3m in 2016/17 by 3.9 per cent – 1.1 per cent savings it had to consider, and can “ We were able to increase funding £25,000 will also be allocated and must be met with no additional lower than the fi gure also invest in other council services. to schools, which now will receive to further the work with funding being provided. that was consulted on. a 3.5 per cent increase, one of, those who rough sleep”. Leader of Newport City Council, if not the highest in this area and “ The fi nal 0.7 per cent reduction For a household in a Band D Councillor Bob Bright, told the indeed Wales. Funding for on-going The council also had to consider in the settlement has still resulted property council tax will be £974.61, budget meeting on February 24: investments in the council’s streetscene budget pressures including costs in a challenging budget, an extra £36.59 a year, which infrastructure and assets is also agreed. relating to the new National but with fewer savings having to works out at around 70p a week. “ We were able to completely remove Living Wage; funding the be made than originally feared. 11 savings proposals based on the We introduced a ‘Small Business increase in employer’s National Because of this lower level of increase, feedback received after consulting Growth Fund’ to off er a range Insurance costs and the costs Details of the annual council tax Newport continues to have the with a number of individuals and of support to new entrepreneurs of meeting the Welsh Language bill can be seen on our website. second lowest council tax in Wales. organisations. Stopping funding and small businesses looking for standards at £280,000 in 2016/17. www.newport.gov.uk

For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk ...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 1 SHOWING SUPPORT FOR OUR ARMED FORCES

An event to mark the signing A minute’s silence was held to mark and gratitude to those who of Newport’s Armed Forces the 25th anniversary of the First have served and continue Community Covenant took Gulf War (Operation Granby) to serve our country.” place at the Newport Gwent before the game kicked off . Dragons match against Councillor Truman said: Glasgow Warriors During half time, the covenant “ I would like to thank all those at last month. was publicly signed on the pitch organisations who have pledged by Councillor Bob Bright, Leader their support for those who serve, The covenant is a promise of Newport City Council; and have served, in the armed forces from the nation that those Councillor Ray Truman, Deputy and hope that others will join us. who serve or have served in Leader and Chair of the One the armed forces, and their Newport Local Service Board “ I would also like to thank everyone families, are treated fairly. and Lt Col Erik Bengtsson at Rodney Parade for allowing us MBE of 104 Royal Artillery. to share this important occasion Newport City Council is on a match night and making committed to supporting the Other partners, including the it a very public event.” armed forces community by Royal British Legion and forces working with a range of partners charity SSAFA, also signed the Councillor Mark Spencer, from the public services, charities convenant on the night. the council’s Armed Forces and other community organisations Champion, added: who have signed the covenant. Councillor Bright said: “ The covenant is a visible way “ We owe an obligation to service of showing the support that On the night there was music people who have put their own lives we and other organisations from the band of the Prince on the line to protect and defend off er to those people who have of Wales’s Division and visitors us. The convenant is a way that the served and continue to serve met soldiers from the council and other organisations our country. We owe them Lieutenant Colonel Erik Bengtsson, Councillor Ray Truman and Councillor Bob Bright 104 Regiment Royal Artillery. in the city can show their respect all a debt of gratitude.”

PARKS TO BE LOCKED EARLIER

Parks in are to be locked GET READY an hour earlier during the summer months.

FOR IMPORTANT The decision was made following an incident last year which led to the council re-examining its lone working ELECTIONS policy. The change brings Newport City Council facilities in line with other local authorities and venues IN 2016 such as the park at House.

Park gates will be locked from 8.30pm from 9 May to 22 August. On Thursday 5 May 2016 The Police and Crime Commissioner “ Registering is easy and you but has not yet registered, All Newport cemeteries will open voters in Wales will go oversees the running of the local can apply online at does so. The deadline to register at park times but remain on winter to the polls for National police force, including appointing www.gov.uk/register-to-vote to vote is Monday 18 April 2016.” closing hours and closed to vehicles Assembly for Wales the Chief Constable, setting in just a few minutes. You will from 5pm. Pedestrian gates and Police and Crime the local budget and deciding need your date of birth and Those who would prefer will remain open as at present. Commissioner elections. what the priorities should be national insurance number.” can still apply using a paper form. http://goo.gl/DXI9aO for the police in their area. The form can be downloaded At the National Assembly for Wales Rhydian Thomas, from the registration site or election, residents of Newport will Will Godfrey, Head of Wales Offi ce at the alternatively be requested from be able to vote for regional and Electoral Registration Offi cer Electoral Commission, said: your local electoral services team. constituency assembly members. for Newport City Council, said: “Anyone not yet registered to vote should “ Only people who are registered do so as soon as possible so they will Contact your local team on These are the people responsible can take part in May’s elections. be able to have their say on issues that 01633 656656 or email: for presiding over a wide range People living in Newport will need to directly aff ect their day-to-day lives [email protected] of issues in Wales including register to make sure that they don’t in Wales. It’s important that anyone and return it by 18 April 2016, health, education and housing. miss out on voting on polling day. who is eligible to be on the register, the registration deadline.

2 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk ...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 VELOTHON WALES 2016 ROUTE REVEALED

The stunning 140km route Caerphilly is not happening and the From there the course then follows the old steelworks and climb 1.6km Residents and businesses who will for Velothon Wales 2016 has residents here will not be affected. the same route as in 2015 and to enjoy spectacular views of the be affected by the road closures been revealed. Up to 18,000 riders will once again take on the Celtic Manor and surrounding area. associated with the event will start cyclists are expected to take There will be changes from very same 140km as some of the to receive letters with information part in this year’s closed-road the inaugural event in 2015 on world’s best pro teams in the UCI After the new changes detailed about the event this month. event on Sunday 22 May, the Usk Road from classified 1.1 professional road race. above, the route then goes up taking in some of the most to Usk, where the route turns to Abergavenny on the A4042 Velothon Wales is one of the latest beautiful and challenging right at the Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel Starting in Cardiff city centre, heading up to Llanfoist for The events in the UCI Velothon Majors. roads around south Wales. just before Llangybi and travels it takes riders out of the capital Tumble climb, a famously challenging The UCI Velothon Majors are a through Tredunnock and past the via the docks and along a 7.5km 6km stretch of road with an global series of cycling events which Cyclists, spectators, residents Newbridge on Usk before joining stretch along the coast road average gradient of 9 per cent. take place in iconic cities including and businesses can now visit Abernant Road towards Usk. through the Gwent Levels. Berlin, Stockholm and Stuttgart. www.velothon-wales.co.uk After tackling The Tumble, riders Velothon Wales attracted over and journey through the full 140km The route then travels through Passing through the villages of will begin their journey back towards 12,000 participants in 2015, route via an interactive map. Llantrisant and Llanllywel before and St Brides, Cardiff, through the Unesco World making it the second biggest arriving in Usk via Maryport Street, cyclists will reach Newport taking Heritage Site at Blaenavon then sportive in the UK and one of the As previously announced, the 50km before a right turn into Church in stunning views over the to Pontypool, Ystrad Mynach, world’s top 10 biggest cycling events. route has been withdrawn from this Street. It leaves Usk along the River Usk and local landmarks Hengoed and on to Caerphilly – year’s event to minimise disruption. B4598, Porthycarne Street, through such as the Transporter Bridge. past the castle and up the famous For more information see It means the loop from Newport, Chain Bridge and Nantyderry Caerphilly Mountain – before Facebook.com VelothonWales under the M4 at junction 28, along before re-joining the 2015 route Leaving the city centre via Langstone finishing in front of thousands of Twitter.com/VelothonWales Forge Lane, through to on the A4042 south of Llanover. towards Caerleon, cyclists will pass spectators in Cardiff city centre. Instagram search VelothonWales

A Newport based charity In 2015 Raven House Trust saw and wants to remind residents is looking for more partners food and furniture to the value to think of Raven House Trust LOCAL CHARITY CONTINUES TO HELP and further donations of £67,000 given out throughout and contact them when they have MAKE PEOPLE FEEL AT HOME to build on £67,000 Gwent and beyond. In Newport, unwanted items that still have worth of charitable work many primary schools donated years of good use left in them. provided last year. food, and it received much needed help from the pupils of St Andrew’s For those who need the charity’s Raven House Trust, based in Primary School and St Julian’s help with furniture, items are Cromwell Road in Newport, has High School, who assisted in the provided free of charge with just a been helping local people with food preparation of food parcels for delivery fee of £30 to help with the and furniture for over 21 years. the homeless. It would like to running costs of the delivery van. The charity works with various see more local volunteers helping bodies and organisations including with this work, and just a few Personal visitors are welcome Newport City Council. It provides hours spared can make this task at the shop 276 - 278 food to people at locations that are more efficient for all concerned. Cromwell Road, from 9am to 3pm, convenient to them including Stow Monday to Thursday. Park Church, Bettws Foodbank and The charity is always in need of Alternatively you can call Caldicot Foodbank which are all good quality furniture to pass on to 01633 762999 or email: part of its distribution network. local families and individuals in need, [email protected]

Newport City Council’s St Joseph’s RC Secondary School is Secondary schools in a red category “The categorisation system is GOOD REPORTS cabinet member for the only secondary in the region to will receive the highest level of support. a rigorous process and it identifies Education and Young be awarded green and Newport that there is continued work to FOR People, Councillor has the highest percentage – “The national categorisation system do in the city to raise standards NEWPORT Debbie Wilcox, is delighted 50 per cent – of green primary is a nationally defined process but it must be stressed that to see so many schools schools across the region – almost which is moderated across Wales there is plenty of good practice SCHOOLS awarded a green status from twice the regional average. Newport and has been introduced by happening in Newport’s schools. the national categorisation has no red primary schools. Welsh Government to drive school system, as applied by improvement using performance data. “As a council we believe firmly Welsh Government. Councillor Wilcox said: in ensuring that all children are “All Newport primary and secondary “The information provides the basis for provided with the opportunity Categorisation is a method of assessing schools are on a continuous tailoring support to individual schools. to maximise their attainment the support needs of a school for it school improvement journey. We work with all schools in Newport and achievement. to continually self-improve and attain The local authority has approved to ensure that good practice is spread It will continue to challenge high standards. A green school needs each school’s categorisation and across primary and secondary schools and support head teachers little support, a red school requires will provide additional, tailored and that result standards are raised and governing bodies to ensure considerable external support. support to those which require it. and we will continue to do so. this aim is achieved.”

Follow us on facebook newportcitycouncil...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 3 NEW LAW SEES A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR WALES

The Well-being of Future A prosperous Wales organisations how to go about • Local health boards. as Wales’ first statutory Future Generations (Wales) Act A resilient Wales meeting their duty under the act. • Public Health Wales NHS Trust. Generations Commissioner. is about improving the social, A healthier Wales • Velindre NHS Trust. economic, environmental A more equal Wales Doing something in accordance • National Park authorities. and cultural well-being A Wales of cohesive communities with the sustainable development • Fire and rescue authorities. of Wales. It will make the A Wales of vibrant culture principle means that the body must • Natural Resources Wales. public bodies listed in the and thriving Welsh Language act in a manner which seeks to • The Higher Education Funding act think more about their A globally responsible Wales ensure that the needs of the present Council for Wales. long-term, work better with are met without compromising • The Arts Council of Wales. people and communities and We need this law as Wales faces the ability of future generations • Sports Council of Wales. each other, look to prevent a number of challenges such as to meet their own needs. • National Library of Wales. problems and take a more climate change, poverty, health • National Museum of Wales. joined-up approach. inequalities, jobs and growth. Public bodies need to make sure • Welsh ministers. To tackle these we need to work that when making their decisions together. To give our children and they take into account the impact The Future Generations This will help to create grandchildren a good quality of life, they could have on people living Commissioner for Wales has been a Wales that we all want we need to think about how the their lives in Wales in the future. appointed to act as a guardian for to live in, both now decisions we make now will impact the interests of future generations and in the future. them. This law will make sure The public bodies in Wales in Wales, and to support the that our public sector does this. covered by this act include: public bodies listed in the act To make sure we are all working to work towards achieving the For more information visit: towards the same vision, the act The act puts in place a ‘sustainable • Local authorities – including wellbeing goals. Sophie Howe www.gov.wales and puts in place seven well-being goals. development principle’ which tells Newport City Council. took up her post in February 2016 www.thewaleswewant.co.uk

It follows the decision by the This resubmission and WELSH MEDIUM planning committee to refuse redetermination is no reflection permission for the proposal on the correctness of the SECONDARY after Natural Resources Wales earlier decision taken by the SCHOOL objected to the application because planning committee, based AND of a potential flooding risk. on planning officer advice. HIGH SCHOOL The council is committed to However, in view of the significance providing Welsh secondary of this application in terms of UPDATE education in Newport and making educational need and the wider major improvements to the strategic development of the Duffryn High School buildings. Duffryn area, it was considered A planning application appropriate and more democratic for a new Welsh medium Therefore, it has been decided for all councillors to take collective secondary school and major that the application should be responsibility for this decision. improvements to Duffryn High resubmitted because of the School has been resubmitted importance to the city of both In May, all 50 councillors to Newport City Council developments, especially for staff, will have the opportunity to for a decision to be made pupils and parents, and should go consider the proposal and any by the full council in May. to the full council for a decision. submissions that are made. Architect’s drawing of new school on current site

Mae’n dilyn penderfyniad gan Nid yw’r ailgyflwyniad ac DIWEDDARIAD y pwyllgor cynllunio i wrthod ailbenderfyniad hyn yn caniatâd ar gyfer y cynnig ar adlewyrchiad ar gywirdeb y O RAN YSGOL ôl i Gyfoeth Naturiol Cymru penderfyniad cynharach UWCHRADD wrthwynebu’r cais oherwydd a gymerwyd gan y pwyllgor y perygl posibl o lifogydd. cynllunio, yn seiliedig ar CYFRWNG gyngor swyddog cynllunio. CYMRAEG AC Mae’r cyngor wedi ymrwymo Fodd bynnag, o ystyried i ddarparu addysg uwchradd arwyddocâd y cais hwn yn YSGOL UWCHRADD cyfrwng Cymraeg yng nhermau angen addysgol DYFFRYN Nghasnewydd a gwneud a datblygiad strategol ehangach gwelliannau mawr i adeiladau ardal Dyffryn, ystyriwyd ei Ysgol Uwchradd Dyffryn. bod yn briodol ac yn fwy Mae cais cynllunio ar gyfer democrataidd i’r holl gynghorwyr ysgol uwchradd cyfrwng Felly, penderfynwyd y dylai’r gymryd cyfrifoldeb ar y cyd Cymraeg newydd a gwelliannau cais gael ei ail-gyflwyno am y penderfyniad hwn. mawr i Ysgol Uwchradd Dyffryn oherwydd pwysigrwydd y wedi cael ei ail-gyflwyno i ddau ddatblygiad i’r ddinas, Ym mis Mai, bydd pob un o’r Gyngor Dinas Casnewydd am yn enwedig i’r staff, disgyblion 50 cynghorydd yn cael y cyfle benderfyniad i gael ei wneud a rhieni, a dylai fynd i’r cyngor i ystyried y cynnig ac unrhyw gan y cyngor llawn ym mis Mai. llawn am benderfyniad. gyflwyniadau a wneir. CGI of new school building

4 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 WELSH NATIONAL HEALTHY SCHOOLS SCHEME

Three Newport schools are Eveswell Primary, who initially Newport City Council is very have won a top award for achieved this in 2007 and who have proud of all three schools being active and healthy. been re-accredited for sustainability who received glowing reports and improvement in 2014; demonstrating that they didn’t The National Quality Award Primary who achieved their award just pass, they were exceptional is awarded to schools in the scheme in 2014 and Langstone Primary in their health promotion work. who demonstrate excellence who achieved their’s in 2015. in health promotion through A National Quality Award is education, showing pupils how they Newport City Council’s Cabinet made after two assessors visit can live healthy lives into adulthood. Member for Education and a school over two days touring Young People, Councillor the school accompanied by a The award involves seven Debbie Wilcox, said: small group of pupils, visiting at health themes – food and “This is a fantastic achievement breakfast, lunchtime and after fitness, mental and emotional for all those involved.The council school clubs. In the background, health and wellbeing, personal is delighted that three of our healthy schools coordinators were development and relationships, schools have received this also involved in delivering training, substance use and misuse, award. Well done everyone.” leading network sharing sessions environment, safety and hygiene. and secondments to the local Newport mayor, Councillor Herbie authority to share their expertise. Each theme embraces leadership Thomas, added his congratulations and communication, curriculum, to the schools: ethos and environment, and family “I would like to thank all the teachers and community involvement. and pupils who took part in this award. Your commitment to the Cllr Debbie Wilcox and Cllr Herbie Thomas, , The three local schools who have scheme is commendable and with some of the winners. achieved the National Quality Award deserving of this recognition.”

ACTIVE BREASTFEEDING JOURNEYS WELCOME PROGRAMME SCHEME FOR SCHOOLS

Sustrans has officially They are also planning a bi-monthly You can access this page at launched the Active Journeys communication and if anyone has www.sustrans.org.uk/ Programme which includes any suggestions for case studies wales/education a new advice service to be included please feel free for schools in Wales. to get in touch with them. and for Welsh medium schools www.sustrans.org.uk/ This advice service comprises They shared information about cymru/addysg of two elements; an info line that the programme and advice service schools can contact for advice and through social media They also sent a newsletter guidance and planned proactive (e.g. Twitter - SustransCymru) to schools in Wales. A new breastfeeding initiative and breastfeeding families will feel communications to promote and referred schools to their To sign up email: is being launched in Newport more comfortable and confident what they offer to schools. recently revamped schools webpage. [email protected] which is being funded by about feeding their babies in public Aneurin Bevan University places and spaces. Any premises Health Board and Newport displaying this logo have attended Drivers must take account City Council, under the a breastfeeding awareness session of all local parking restrictions, One Newport partnership. and are committed to being a PLEASE PARK and should also consider the Breastfeeding Welcome premises. CAREFULLY safety of all pedestrians and The Breastfeeding Welcome scheme other road users at all times. encourages all premises, which are If you are a business or organisation open to the public in Newport, that would like to be a part of this Gwent Police are responsible to support breastfeeding families scheme, or a breastfeeding family Newport City Council for enforcing parking regulations, outside of the home by being that would like to suggest public would like to remind all but in the light of recent complaints, welcoming, friendly and supportive. places to be a part of this scheme, parents and carers who the council would like to remind contact 01633 656 656 use a vehicle to take a child people not to park on any grass The hope is that breastfeeding or email: to school to be considerate verges or pavements which could will become normalised [email protected] when dropping children off. endanger the public’s safety.

Follow us on facebook newportcitycouncil...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 5 CLEARER CCTV WILL HELP REDUCE CRIME

Newport City Council This service is essential for sites such as schools and other for up to nine years. It really is using the cameras covering the areas is a leading member of the providing evidence to the courts. council owned buildings and sites. a case of 21st century technology which are accessed by the public. ‘One Newport’ community for a modern city centre. safety partnership It has been run by an experienced Newport City Council has The radio network, provided by the which provides a CCTV team for just over fourteen years recently invested in a community The improvement in image quality is Business Against Crime Partnership, monitoring service to and has been working on behalf safety fibre network across incredible and also allows the police is coordinated by the council CCTV cover the commercial of Blaenau Gwent Council for the the city centre, providing high to zoom in on individuals, vehicles team allowing speedy contact area of the city centre. past two years; this includes an out quality connectivity between the or locations for better identification. between the partners and police. of hours call handling service. cameras and the control room. The service operates on a 24:7 The opening of the new Friars The CCTV management team basis, 365 days a year and works CCTV monitoring covers the This is further enhanced with the Walk shopping centre has seen the are continually working with the closely with the police in preventing commercial area of the city centre purchase and installation of new council working closely with the operators looking for new ideas so and identifying perpetrators of in Newport and across the Blaenau CCTV cameras replacing the aging site management. Council CCTV that the council continues to get crime or antisocial behaviour. Gwent area, plus various remote ones which have been in service operators are able to view locations value for money from the service.

More than 200 business This year’s summit outlined “It was very pleasing to see leaders and owners in what’s next for Newport to so many local businesses sign THIRD CITY SUMMIT SEES Newport attended the ensure that the city reaches up to this year’s City Summit. third Newport City its economic potential and More than 200 companies DELEGATE NUMBERS CLIMB Summit last month. supports local businesses. pledged their support to this important Newport event. Key speakers from some of Key speakers included Amanda Newport’s leading organisations Davies, the group chief executive “T his year’s summit examined attended The Riverfront Theatre of the Seren Group; Will Godfrey, what the future holds for Newport, and Arts Centre where delegates chief executive of Newport City building on the success of Friars were able to mix with like minded Council who outlined what the Walk, and looking at ways we people and get information City Deal means; Matthew Turner can work with and support from the host of companies from Cardiff University’s National Newport businesses and how represented at the event. Software Academy; Lee Jones, we are staking our place manager of the Lloyds Bank in the proposed City Deal.” A lot has happened in the last Contact Centre in Newport and NEWPORT 12 months; the opening of Friars local entrepreneur Roger Hiscott. Head teachers from the city’s CIT Y Walk in November 2015 was a major secondary schools were also invited SUMMIT milestone for the city and many other Will Godfrey, chief executive to see how the skills and education key developments are well under way. of Newport City Council, said: agenda is developing in the city.

in Newport city centre has attracted The latest statistics reveal that thousands more visitors to the city, Newport’s average weekly created much needed jobs and drawn footfall for November 2015 FRIARS WALK in a wide variety of new businesses. was 202,000. This is an increase – 4 MONTHS ON of 17 per cent on the same Cllr Bob Bright, Leader of Newport time last year. The last occasion City Council said: that November’s average weekly “We now have a city centre we can footfall was higher, was back in 2008. be proud of and one that caters Just over three years ago for visitors’ needs, whether that This positive news comes banners across the city centre is shopping, leisure or work. on the back of another recent announced Newport is survey which named Newport ‘open for business’ – and the “We are also seeing exciting new as the best city in Wales to start opening of Friars Walk has well and returning businesses to our up a business. Out of 69 cities and truly delivered that promise. city centre who will be contributing across the whole of the UK, millions of pounds to our local Newport was named as the The opening of the multi million economy, which will bring significant 28th best place to start pound Friars Walk development benefits for many years to come”. up a business.

6 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 The city council, with investment Businessman Jahan Abedi has used Skinner Street, where housing with the first 11 apartments of around £15 million from the a loan from the VVP programme association Seren is refurbishing and due to be ready during BREATHING Welsh Government, has worked towards restoring the former converting the empty upper floors April/May 2016. NEW LIFE INTO with private and third sector King’s Hotel in High Street. of the Victorian building into a range partners to deliver projects that are of 27 modern apartments with the The apartments are available LANDMARK providing new homes, improved Conversion of the building into assistance of a grant from VVP. for intermediate rent through BUILDINGS business opportunities and jobs. apartments, offices and retail use Seren’s in-house lettings is well underway and several of Located in the heart of the city company Serenliving and Welsh Government Minister the flats have already been snapped centre conservation area, the will be allocated via Home Lesley Griffiths recently joined up before completion. A company homes have been sensitively Options Newport. Newport’s highly successful Newport City Council’s Deputy is also due to move into the office designed to retain the character Vibrant and Viable Places Leader, Cllr Ray Truman, accommodation with more than and significant historic fabric. Greenwich Communities (VVP) programme and Cllr John Richards, one hundred members of staff. have employed14 people on is continuing to make Cabinet Member for The apartments are being site who had previously been a huge difference to key Regeneration and Investment, They then moved on to Griffin constructed in two phases unemployed, equating to buildings in the city centre. to visit two of the schemes. Island, between Griffin Street and by Greenwich Communities, 182 weeks of paid work.

Pinacl launched a similar solution Mark Lowe, PUBLIC WIFI NETWORK NOW AVAILABLE in York last year which now has Strategic Relations Director, Pinacl around 2,000 users a day. They explained: created the CityConnect brand specifically for public WiFi networks “We are delighted to be launching NewportCityConnect from Visitors and residents can access that have been used for other local our exciting CityConnect public WiFi Pinacl, will provide users with NewportCityConnect from any authorities and organisations. service within Newport, offering a unlimited 24:7 free WiFi access wireless enabled device. The WiFi quality and easy to use WiFi service. across key city centre locations allows users to log in via social Small retailers have also opted for including Upper Dock St, media or a simple registration form CityConnect solutions to enhance “Local businesses will also be able to Corn St, the railway and bus and users can get back online easily their existing network with a user benefit from commercial opportunities stations, and . when in range of the network. friendly social WiFi overlay. advertising on the Wi-Fi service”.

GREAT WESTERN CITIES ONE STEP CLOSER TO CREATING BRITAIN’S WESTERN POWERHOUSE

The Severn region has the The assessment follows the “The case for a Great Western potential to become Britain’s emergence of two high profile Powerhouse is a strong one. next major economic economic collaborations elsewhere Our research shows that there are ‘powerhouse’ according to a in the UK - the Northern Powerhouse already more people commuting new report launched by the and Midlands Engine. Compared between the Cardiff and Bristol Great Western Cities (GWC) to the Northern Powerhouse Metros than between Leeds and – Bristol, Cardiff and Newport. the GWC already boast higher Manchester, even though the journey levels of commuting between is equally slow. As with the Northern Commissioned by GWC and Cardiff or Newport and Bristol Powerhouse, better connectivity will authored by Metro Dynamics, than that between Manchester reap big rewards in creating a larger, the report examines the benefits to Leeds or Liverpool. more productive labour market of greater sharing, matching across the Great Western Cities. and learning between the three Reducing journey times between This is Britain’s western opportunity city regions – including an Cardiff, Newport and Bristol by – it’s up to the three cities, business influential role for universities, just 20 minutes could result in and Government to seize it.” businesses and civil society. savings of more than £1 billion over the next 60 years. The GWC launched an initial It concludes that collaboration prospectus in spring 2015. could strengthen the voice of the Councillor Bob Bright, Leader of During the last year, the cities have west in UK economic and public Newport City Council said: been focused on developing their policy decisions, positioning the “It is no coincidence that Newport’s own regional devolution deals area as a potential contender to presence on the UK stage has risen working with their respective take on a ‘powerhouse’ mantle. since the inception of the Great governments. The potential for Western Cities collaboration. a new economic powerhouse for The report was launched at a We truly have strength-in-depth with the west will build on any special debate in Bristol hosted these three ambitious and unique city devolution deals which are secured, by Insider magazine. This touched partners working closely together but is purely about connectivity on key topics from the report, for a combined benefit. and collaboration. This means which identifies major potential This report further strengthens the it would complement but not for the three city regions in case that we already fully support.” supersede any devolution deal strengthening transport links, for any area and would not expanding renewable energy and Ben Lucas, managing director impose a formal system of improving its international profile. of Metro Dynamics added: governance between the cities.

Follow us on facebook newportcitycouncil...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 7 Newport City Council More than 200 guests attended apprentice Sam Shingler the event including winners has been singled out and their guests, partners and AWARD FOR NEWPORT for a top award. providers from the QSA, along with representatives from Sam, who is employed in the Street government, education and the CITY COUNCIL APPRENTICE Scene and City Services department, business community of Wales and who won apprentice of the and beyond, who gathered year with Safe and Secure Training together to celebrate all the Newport, has now been chosen as achievements of the apprentices. a worthy winner of the sustainable resource management award at this Councillor Deb Davies, year’s annual Quality Skills Alliance Cabinet Member for (QSA) Apprenticeship Awards. Street Scene and City Services was also invited to attend Sam picked up his award at the awards ceremony. a celebration evening held at Cardiff and Vale College’s Councillor Davies said: City Centre Campus, “ Many congratulations to Sam! on Thursday 10 March. Hugely deserved and certainly refl ects how hard he works The awards celebrate the success for Newport City Council. of the QSA’s standout apprentices It was an honour to Sam Shingler, centre, is congratulated by Peter Clissold, left, director of Safe and Secure Training and Cllr Deb Davies, from over the past year. attend the event.” cabinet member for Street Scene and City Services

If all materials were collected in one which would cost the council at container (co-mingled) they would least £1.4 – £1.8 million per year. WHY YOUR RECYCLING IS SORTED have to be sent off site to be sorted SLIMMER BINS which would cost the council an extra For more information on where AT THE KERBSIDE £150,000 to £330,000 per year. your recycling goes you can visit www.wastesavers.co.uk Over the past couple Of the recycled materials collected of years residents have from Newport residents, 99.97 To fi nd out more about recycling been given slimmer There are two main ways In Newport, recycling is collected per cent is sold to UK companies in Newport - what goes in each box wheelie bins for their of collecting household using the kerbside sort system. to be converted into energy or and your collection days visit rubbish in order to increase recycling; one system is This method has been chosen other products. This practice www.newport.gov.uk/recycling recycling across the city. where residents put their as it reduces costs and is more generates up to £1 million every recyclable items in a variety environmentally friendly. year which helps pay wages and There are still a number of of containers and it is sorted reduces the cost of running the households who are yet to receive on the kerbside – this is Collecting materials using the service by Newport City Council. the smaller180l bins and these known as a kerbside sort. kerbside sorting method reduces will be delivered from the week The other method is where costs in a number of ways. If recyclable items were beginning Monday 22 March 2016. residents put all of their The boxes used by residents are collected all in one container the recyclable items in one much cheaper to buy than wheelie income generated by the kerbside Residents will not need to do container which is sorted bins or the one-use plastic bags, sorting method would be lost. anything, the bin crews will at a diff erent recycling and the vehicles that collect the If waste which could be recycled simply change any household’s facility - this is known as recycling are cheaper to operate was sent to landfi ll instead it would 240l bins for the 180l size once a co-mingled collection. than the larger bin lorries. cost £80 – £125 per tonne, the old bin has been emptied.

A recent survey conducted a number of initiatives on the “ Local authorities play an important on behalf of Fly-tipping ground to clear up fl y-tipping and part in the prevention and clearance PEOPLE Action Wales has found highlight the negative eff ects it of fl y-tipping. Newport City Council IN SOUTH people across South is having on the local economy, has done a fantastic job educating East Wales are the most tourism and the environment. the community on fl y-tipping and EAST WALES concerned by the sight we look forward to seeing this of illegally dumped waste. “We have worked tirelessly with work continue in the future. ARE MOST community groups, CONCERNED Six out of ten people surveyed local businesses, schools and “We all have a duty of care to from the region agreed that partners in raising awareness ensure the waste from our homes BY FLY-TIPPING, fl y-tipping was embarrassing, of the impact and cost of is dealt with responsibly and legally the highest of any region in illegal waste depositing. and a failure to do so can result SAYS Wales, while seven in ten people in serious fi nes. CAMPAIGN saw fl y-tipping as an eyesore. “Our offi cers also rely on our residents to let us know of “If you require further information GROUP The survey shows the work done incidents which we will investigate and advice on how to get rid by local authorities in the area to and where necessary take legal of your unwanted waste please build awareness around the issues action against proven off enders.” visit our website, of fl y-tipping, as Councillor www.fl ytippingactionwales.org” Deb Davies, Cabinet Member Gary Evans, programme manager for Streetscene and City Services at Fly-tipping Action Wales, added: To report incidents of fl y-tipping at Newport City Council, explains: “We work with over 50 partners, or to report fl y-tipped waste “We take great pride in our including the 22 local authorities contact Newport City Council communities and over the across Wales to reduce the number on 01633656656 last year have delivered of cases of fl y-tipping. or www.newport.gov.uk

8 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk ...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 South Wales Fire it cost the taxpayer thousands of and Rescue Service pounds, negatively impacts on the HELP is keen to involve local environment, wildlife and carbon people, especially footprint and puts fi refi ghters at STAMP OUT children, in preventing needless risk, but it also means GRASS FIRES deliberate grass fi res. that fi refi ghters could be diverted from attending a real emergency.” Just before and during the Easter holiday period, As part of this year’s campaign, there has traditionally been Bernie’s Roadshow will be a rise in the number of fi res visiting some schools across Wales stretching fi re in south Wales. crews to breaking point. However, youngsters can also Huw Jakeway, become a grassroots Chief Fire Offi cer, said: ambassador and sign a pledge. “ Deliberately set grass fi res are extremely unpredictable and can They can also follow Bernie spiral out of control within minutes. on Twitter or Facebook. twitter.com/BernieSWFRS “ Every time our fi refi ghters are www.facebook.com/Bernieswfrs called out to a deliberately set grass or mountain fi re, not only does Visit www.bernie.uk.com

From Monday 14 March, The garden waste bin should Did you know that your garden Further information including Newport City Council will only be used for garden waste waste can also be used for compost? collection dates and advice can GARDEN WASTE restart collecting garden including grass cuttings, leaves, Composting is an inexpensive, be found on the council’s website waste. Residents are shrub and hedge clippings, natural process that transforms newport.gov.uk/recycling COLLECTIONS reminded to put garden twigs, plants and fl owers. your waste into a valuable and TO SPRING BACK waste bins out by 7am on nutrient rich food for your garden; their scheduled collection day, Garden waste bins which it is easy to make and use. Compost which is on the same week are contaminated by litter improves your soil’s condition and as the bag for cardboard. or other wastes cannot be emptied. your plants and fl owers will love it!

Follow us on facebook newportcitycouncil ...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 9 Could you be a foster carer? Children are placed in foster homes For those of you wondering for a wide variety of reasons. what it entails we met two They could be neglected or families who talk about their abused, and need to learn they TWO FAMILIES SHARE THEIR experiences and why they can be in a safe environment give up their time, with a routine they can trust. their love and their home EXPERIENCES OF FOSTERING to help these troubled kids. Carol and Kevin decided to foster after their two sons joined the Steph and Ciaran have two armed forces and they had room children, a toddler and a new baby, in their large family home. and have been foster carers for several years. After going “ We have always been involved in youth through interviews with the groups with our own sons and Kev fostering panel and being ran a football team for years, plus we thoroughly vetted the couple always felt this was a large family home were approved to take youngsters and we had the space. We did the aged from newborn to 18 years. training and worked with social services and while I was working we off ered Their fi rst foster child was a respite care at weekends. When I was three year old boy who came to made redundant I decided we could them as an emergency placement off er full time fostering” said Carol. following a breakdown in his family care, but the youngster The couple were asked to have a ended up staying eight months. brother and sister they had cared for on a weekend on a full time “ Foster carers should never be basis after their mum was taken into a replacement family for a child hospital. They knew from social who comes to you, but they do workers that the children had been need to feel secure and cared for. moved from home to home and We are not here to replace their found it hard to settle anywhere. parents and visits to parents, if possible, are always “ We found the kids didn’t value anything encouraged,” says Ciaran. because they had never had their own stuff so we created a bedroom each for The view of many people them. We wanted them to feel safe and considering taking up fostering is part of the family while still keeping Picture posed by models that an older child would be more contact with their mum” said Carol. troublesome than a younger one. The couple believe the children “ Personally, I think you can reason with now benefi t from having a teenagers and if they are not happy, good diet, a routine and know talk things through,” said Steph. behaviour boundaries and are learning self respect. “ I’ve always wanted to look after and care for people, maybe because “ We’ve had tantrums and rows of my childhood. As foster carers but they are just testing us out. we look after a youngster’s They know we are here for them. emotional needs, off er praise, It is a wonderful thing to see these comfort and a routine. Some kids children grow in confi dence. have never had this in their life We are fair but fi rm” she said. and many don’t have a male role model so it is good that Ciaran is Because of their family circumstance the main carer and I work during the children have now been placed the day. This works really well with Carol and Kevin full time for us and our young family.” while helping the youngsters to maintain relations with their mum. A foster family are legally only allowed to have up to three looked “ It’s a rollercoaster of emotions after children. When the couple sometimes but we deal with things decided to foster they made a call as they come up and back each other to Newport City Council and up, we are a team, we’re all a team. a social worker visited the They are good kids” said Kevin. home to discuss the reasons behind their decision. And advice to people thinking of fostering. Says Carol: “ We were made to think really hard “ It’s tough at times but the about what fostering involves and rewards are great. Talk to social the assessment is very thorough but workers, learn the pitfalls, use your it needs to be. You should really iniative and be diplomatic.” want to do fostering and explore all the advice and be prepared to have you own family life go under the microscope too. But the rewards are great when you see you have brought about a positive change in a child’s life,” said Steph.

10 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk ...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 WHAT’S ON… 01633 636363 Wednesday 23 March 2016 Bearded Reedling and Breakfast Walk Take part in this guided walk and the challenge to fi nd the most and Art Gallery elusive birds hiding in the reedbeds, 01633 656656 the bearded reedlings. Setting off early will give you more chance of hearing them ping, and if you’re Until 14 May 2016 really lucky you’ll see the males Exhibition: establishing their territories from The Grosvenor School the top of the reeds. of Modern Art The Grosvenor School of Modern Price: RSPB member £5.50, Art was founded in 1925 by Scottish non-member £7.50, includes artist Iain Macnab. It soon occupied breakfast roll and hot drink. a leading role in the promotion of Tuesdays – Saturdays, modern print-making techniques. Until 22 April email: Today many Grosvenor School Stuck for something [email protected] artists are best known for their bold to do with the kids over Booking is essential. and dynamic linocuts, then a novel the school holidays? technique taught by Claude Flight. Why not pop along to Newport Museum and Art Gallery All works in this exhibition are and do one of the free trails? by artists associated with the Older children and families can Grosvenor School. They form a part explore the museum and art gallery of a larger group of prints collected displays searching for clues. For the by Newport Museum and Art little ones, there is a ‘fairy door’ Gallery in the 1950s. toddler trail. Fun for all the family.

Price: free admission Price: free admission email: [email protected] email: [email protected] Newport Museum and Art Gallery

CARE AND SUPPORT IN WALES IS CHANGING: GIVING YOU MORE OF A SAY

Care and support in Wales is integration between health and changing. From April 6, people social care in order to achieve will have more say about how improved wellbeing outcomes social services assess and and provides for a strengthened deliver their care and support. approach to safeguarding people.

A national awareness campaign is The act also: being launched to inform people • Introduces new eligibility criteria in Wales about the changes being focused on individual need, replacing introduced by a landmark new the current threshold system. Welsh law, the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014. • Gives carers an equal right to assessment for support It will radically transform the to those they care for. way social services are delivered in Wales to meet the needs of • Ensures easy access to information individuals and make services and advice is available to all. sustainable for the future. • Keeps children and vulnerable The act gives people a stronger adults safer by making powers voice and real control over the to safeguard people stronger. support they need to remove barriers to their wellbeing. It focuses • Requires local authorities and on earlier intervention; increasing health boards to come together preventative services within the in new statutory partnerships community and helping people to drive integration, innovation maintain their independence. and service change.

It provides a framework to enable The national awareness campaign people to get the help they need will be delivered in partnership before their situation becomes with local organisations across critical. The act also promotes Wales using a variety of media.

Follow us on facebook newportcitycouncil ...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016 11 12 For more news visit www.newport.gov.uk ...... NEWPORT MATTERS MARCH 2016