LOCAL DEMOCRACY AND BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

Review of Community Arrangements in the County of Monmouthshire

Report and Recommendations

VOLUME 2 January 2019 © LDBCW copyright 2019

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This document is also available from our website at www.ldbc.gov.wales LOCAL DEMOCRACY AND BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

REVIEW OF COMMUNITY ARRANGEMENTS IN THE COUNTY OF MONMOUTHSHIRE

REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Contents Page Volume 1 Chapter 1 Introduction 1 Chapter 2 Monmouthshire County Council’s proposals 2 Chapter 3 The Commission’s Consideration 4 Chapter 4 Procedure 4 Chapter 5 Proposals 5 Abergavenny 6 Caerwent 38 Caldicot 60 Chepstow 92 Crucorney 124 Devauden 136 Goetre Fawr 148 Grosmont 162 Gwehelog Fawr 170 Llanarth 176 Llanbadoc 192 Llanelly 196

Volume 2 Chapter 5 Proposals (continued) 1 Llanfoist Fawr 2 Llangattock Vibon Avel 12 Llangwm 13 Llangybi 14 Llanhennock 18 Llanover 20 Llantilio Crossenny 26 Llantilio Pertholey 28 Llantrisant Fawr 44 Magor with Undy 48 Mathern 66 Mitchel Troy 74 Monmouth 82 Portskewett 100 Raglan 108 Rogiet 116 Shirenewton 120 St Arvans 132 Tintern 138 Trellech United 148 Skenfrith (proposed) 158 Whitecastle (proposed) 170 Chapter 6 Responses to this report 192 Chapter 7 Acknowledgements 193

APPENDIX 1 GLOSSARY OF TERMS APPENDIX 2 EXISTING COMMUNITY COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP APPENDIX 3 PROPOSED CONSEQUENTIAL COMMUNITY COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP APPENDIX 4 EXISTING ELECTORAL WARD ARRANGEMENTS APPENDIX 5 PROPOSED CONSEQUENTIAL ELECTORAL WARD ARRANGEMENTS

1st Edition printed January 2019

The Commission welcomes correspondence and telephone calls in Welsh or English. Mae’r ddogfen ar hon ar gael yn y Gymraeg.

The Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales Hastings House Fitzalan Court CARDIFF CF24 0BL Tel Number: (029) 2046 4819 Fax Number: (029) 2046 4823 E-mail: [email protected] www.ldbc.gov.wales MONMOUTHSHIRE FINAL REPORT AND PROPOSALS

Chapter 5. PROPOSALS (continued) The Commission’s proposals are described in detail in this chapter. For each new proposal the report sets out: • The name(s) of the existing community areas which wholly or in part constitute the proposed amended new communities; • a brief description of the existing community arrangements in terms of the number of electors and warding arrangements (if applicable); • key arguments made during the Council’s deliberations; • the views of the Commission; • the composition of the proposed community arrangements; and, • a map of the proposed community and/or community ward.

LDBCW Existing Community Existing Community Recommended Boundaries Ward Boundaries Boundary MCC Proposed Proposed Area to Proposed Area to Boundary be transferred (in) be transferred (out) (if applicable)

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LLANFOIST FAWR

395. The current community arrangements in Llanfoist Fawr consist of four wards: Llanellen, Llanfoist, Llanwenarth Citra and Llanwenarth Ultra. The community has a total electorate of 2,716 and is represented by 12 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Llanellen 411 2 Llanfoist 1026 3 Llanwenarth Citra 139 1 Llanwenarth Ultra 1140 6

396. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Llanfoist Fawr will decrease to 2,584.

Representations 397. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Llanfoist Fawr which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 398. Representation was received from Llanfoist Community Council in relation to its community arrangements. On the whole, the Community Council wish for the current arrangements to remain in place with an increase to the number of councillors representing the Llanfoist ward from 3 to 6.

399. Abergavenny Town Council submitted representation proposing that the Llanfoist ward and Llanwenarth Citra ward be merged in to the community of Abergavenny due to the need for communities to be fit for purpose and be large enough to take advantage of economies of scale.

400. Llanfoist Community Council submitted a secondary representation in response to the proposal put forward by Abergavenny Town Council and, in summary, highlighted the following reasons as to why the areas should not be merged: That Llanfoist is geographically separate from Abergavenny with the River Usk forming an obvious boundary; that the proposed increase in population will ensure that the Llanfoist community remains a viable and extremely effective community with members who have developed a good relationship with the electorate, and, it would be detrimental to the identity of Llanfoist to merge with Abergavenny as the needs of Llanfoist as a rural community are very different to those of the town.

401. The Council working group also attended a meeting of Llanfoist Community Council to better understand the concerns and nature of the community to assist them in the review process.

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Draft Representations 402. Llanfoist Community Council provided an overview of the current arrangements and responsibilities the community undertake for each ward, included ownership and maintenance of assets in Govilon that are currently the responsibility of Llanfoist Fawr Community Council.

403. The representation submitted, objected to the proposals to separate Govilon and Llanfoist into separate communities due to the costs associated with running separate councils and potential increase in precept to residents, and, proposed a new scheme of electoral arrangements for the community. The Community Council also objected to the proposal for Llanwenarth Citra to be included in the Town of Abergavenny.

Community boundary proposals 404. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply three changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Llanfoist Fawr and the following communities: • Abergavenny • Llanelly • Llanover (proposed to be named Gobion Fawr)

405. See paragraph 28 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of the Llanwenarth Citra ward from the Community of Llanfoist Fawr into the Town of Abergavenny. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 10 of Volume 1.

406. See paragraph 379 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llanfoist Fawr (Llanwenarth Ultra Ward) into the Community of Llanelly (Gilwern ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 198 of Volume 1.

407. The Council propose to transfer the area between the Heads of the Valleys Road (north) and Llanellen (south) from the Community of Llanover (Llangattock-Nigh-Usk ward) into the Community of Llanfoist Fawr (Llanellen ward). This proposal includes all land which is located to the west of the railway line which runs parallel to the A40 and sits between the Hardwick Roundabout and the current community boundary north of Llanellen, affecting seven electors. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 5.

408. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals 409. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply one change to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Llanfoist Fawr and to change the name of one existing community ward. This proposal involves a change to the existing boundaries of the following wards: • Llanfoist • Llanwenarth Ultra (proposed to be named Govilon)

Llanfoist 410. The Council propose to transfer the area west of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal from the Llanfoist ward into the proposed Govilon ward of the Community. The Council recommend this is to provide a clear boundary following natural features between these two areas. The proposal sees the boundary extend southwards along the canal until Brecon Park boat hire site and Wharfingers Cottage, before heading southwards up along the natural spring and enveloping all the arable land to the west. This proposal seems to affect one property. 411. A map displaying the proposed Llanfoist ward of the Community of Llanfoist Fawr is shown on page 7.

Llanwenarth Ultra 412. The Council propose to change the name of the existing Llanwenarth Ultra ward of the Community of Llanfoist Fawr. The new name of the ward is proposed to be Govilon. 413. See paragraph 410 for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Llanfoist ward into the proposed Govilon ward of the community. 414. A map displaying the proposed Govilon ward of the Community of Llanfoist Fawr is shown on page 9.

415. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – 16.10 Llanfoist

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Insert proposal map – (overview) Govilon ward

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

416. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Llanfoist Fawr consist of three wards: Govilon, Llanellen and Llanfoist. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 2,584 and be represented by 13 community councillors.

417. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Llanfoist Fawr Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by Monmouthshire County Council Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Llanellen 411 2 206 -9% 418 2 209 5% Llanfoist 1026 3 342 51% 1026 6 171 -14% Llanwenarth 139 1 139 -39% - - - - Citra Llanwenarth 1140 6 190 -16% - - - - Ultra Govilon - - - - 1140 5 228 15% 2716 12 226 2584 13 199

418. The Commission considered the community council electoral arrangements proposed by The Council and acknowledged that these were based upon projected increases within part of the community. However, the Commission have proposed the following amendments to the Council’s proposal based upon the existing electorate levels:

Llanfoist Fawr Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by LDBCW Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Llanellen 411 2 206 -9% 418 2 209 5% Llanfoist 1026 3 342 51% 1026 5 205 3% Llanwenarth 139 1 139 -39% - - - - Citra Llanwenarth 1140 6 190 -16% - - - - Ultra Govilon - - - - 1140 6 190 -4% 2716 12 226 2584 13 199

419. This proposal reduces the range in electoral representation within the community.

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420. The Commission is satisfied that the Commission’s proposed changes are in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

421. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

422. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community and community ward boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Cantref (see paragraph 67 (Volume 1) above) • Llanelly Hill (proposed to be named Llanelly) • Llanfoist Fawr • Llanover (proposed to be named Gobion Fawr) • Llanwenarth Ultra (proposed to be named Govilon)

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LLANGATTOCK VIBON AVEL

423. The current community arrangements in Llangattock Vibon Avel consist of three wards: Llangattock Vibon Avel, Rockfield and St Maughans, and Skenfrith. The community has a total electorate of 850 and is represented by 10 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Llangattock Vibon Avel 296 3 Skenfrith 314 4 Rockfield & St Maughans 240 3

424. As a result of these proposals the Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel, alongside the Community of Llantilio Crossenny, is proposed to form parts of the proposed Communities of Skenfrith and Whitecastle. The existing Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel is thereby dissolved.

425. For further information regarding the areas being transferred from the Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel into the proposed Community of Skenfrith, please see pages 158 to 169 below.

426. For further information regarding the areas being transferred from the Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel into the proposed Community of Whitecastle, please see pages 170 to 190 below.

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LLANGWM

427. The current community arrangements in Llangwm consist of two wards: Llangwm and Llansoy. The community has a total electorate of 355 and is represented by seven community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Llangwm 224 5 Llansoy 131 2

428. As a result of these proposals the Community of Llangwm is proposed to be combined with the Community of Llantrisant Fawr.

Representations 429. The Council received no representations concerning the Community of Llangwm.

Community boundary proposals 430. For further information regarding The Council’s proposal to combine the Communities of Llangwm and Llantrisant Fawr, please see paragraph 539 below.

Community ward boundary proposals

431. The Council proposed no boundary changes between the internal community wards of the Community of Llangwm.

CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

432. For further information regarding the consequential changes to community electoral arrangements, following The Council’s proposal to combine the Communities of Llangwm and Llantrisant Fawr, please see paragraph 543 below.

Electoral ward arrangements

433. For further information regarding the consequential changes to electoral wards, following The Council’s proposal to combine the Communities of Llangwm and Llantrisant Fawr, please see paragraph 546 below.

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LLANGYBI

434. The current community arrangements in Llangybi consist of three wards: Coed-Y-Paen, Llandegfedd and Llangybi. The community has a total electorate of 740 and is represented by nine community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Coed-y-Paen 116 2 Llandegfedd 153 2 Llangybi 471 5

435. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Llangybi will increase to 1,153.

Representations 436. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Llangybi which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 437. Llangybi Community Council submitted a representation stating that the current arrangements are accepted, manageable and well understood by the three communities. The council wish for consideration to be given to the geographical spread of the wards within its communities and the distance needed to travel for meetings and site visits. The Council wish to retain the existing arrangements in boundaries and elected members and feel that any reduction in representation would impact on the council’s effectiveness to carry out its duties.

Draft Representations 438. Representation was received from Llanhennock Community Council opposing the amalgamation with the Community of Llangybi. They acknowledge a lower level of representation than in other areas within its community but believes the current arrangements and experience of members represent the community effectively, whilst they consider that an amalgamation would have a detrimental effect on the representation that its residents experience under the current arrangements.

439. A resident also submitted representation stating that the wider remit and future of Community Councils should be clear and understood as well as concerns around the reduction in councillor numbers.

440. One resident submitted representation questioning the rationale and logic for the merging of communities as well as querying the future proposals and responsibilities for community councils.

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441. Llangybi Community Council also submitted representations objecting to the proposal for amalgamation on the following points: Questioned timing of the review given uncertain future of community responsibility and devolved services; feel that the level of representation within the community is unfair and does not suit the area; note a proposal for ten additional dwellings in the Llangybi ward, and, provide example of seven meetings outside the council that members attend to represent the community, and programmes of work undertaken by the community.

442. Representation was also received from the Coed Y Paen Residents Association requesting that two members are retained for the ward and that a male/female gender balance of representation it offers residents options when raising issues. Also raises concerns about lack of representation due to holidays and merging with Llanhennock.

Community boundary proposals 443. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply one change to the existing community boundary, which involves a proposal to combine the following communities: • Llangybi • Llanhennock

444. The Council propose to combine the Llangybi community with the existing Community of Llanhennock, based upon the main road access for, and between, many of the wards in both communities being centred upon the area near Cwrt Bleddyn Hotel. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 16.

445. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals

446. The Council proposed no boundary changes between the internal community wards of the Community of Llangybi.

CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

447. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community of Llangybi consist of six wards: Coed-Y-Paen, Llandegfedd, Llangattock Nigh Caerleon, Llangybi, Llanhennock and Tredunnock. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 1,153 and be represented by eight community councillors.

448. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Llangybi Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Coed-Y-Paen 116 2 58 -29% 116 1 116 -20% Llandegfedd 153 2 77 -7% 153 1 153 6% Llangybi 471 5 94 15% 471 3 157 9% Llangattock Nigh - - - - 96 1 96 -33% Caerleon Llanhennock - - - - 162 1 162 12% Tredunnock - - - - 155 1 155 8% 740 9 82 1153 8 144

449. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

450. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

451. The proposed changes to the Community of Llangybi have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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LLANHENNOCK

452. The current community arrangements in Llanhennock consist of three wards: Llangattock Nigh Caerleon, Llanhennock and Tredunnock. The community has a total electorate of 413 and is represented by eight community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Llangattock Nigh Caerleon 96 2 Llanhennock 162 3 Tredunnock 155 3

453. As a result of these proposals the Community of Llanhennock is proposed to be combined with the Community of Llangybi.

Representations 454. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Llanhennock which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 455. The Council received no representations concerning the Community of Llanhennock at the initial stage.

Draft Representations 456. Representation was received from Llanhennock Community Council opposing the amalgamation with the Community of Llangybi. They acknowledge a lower level of representation than in other areas within its community but believes the current arrangements and experience of members represent the community effectively, whilst they consider that an amalgamation would have a detrimental effect on the representation that its residents experience under the current arrangements.

457. A resident also submitted representation stating that the wider remit and future of Community Councils should be clear and understood as well as concerns around the reduction in councillor numbers.

458. One resident submitted representation questioning the rationale and logic for the merging of communities as well as querying the future proposals and responsibilities for community councils.

459. Llangybi Community Council also submitted representations objecting to the proposal for amalgamation on the following points: Questioned timing of the review given uncertain future of community responsibility and devolved services; feel that the level of representation within the community is unfair and does not suit the area; note a proposal for ten additional dwellings in the Llangybi ward, and, provide example of seven meetings

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outside the council that members attend to represent the community, and programmes of work undertaken by the community.

460. Representation was also received from the Coed Y Paen Residents Association requesting that two members are retained for the ward and that a male/female gender balance of representation offers residents options when raising issues. Also raises concerns about lack of representation due to holidays and merging with Llanhennock.

Community boundary proposals 461. For further information regarding The Council’s proposal to combine the Communities of Llangybi and Llanhennock, please see paragraph 444 above.

Community ward boundary proposals

462. The Council proposed no boundary changes between the internal community wards of the Community of Llanhennock.

CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

463. For further information regarding the consequential changes to community electoral arrangements, following The Council’s proposal to combine the Communities of Llangybi and Llanhennock, please see paragraph 447 above.

Electoral ward arrangements

464. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

465. The proposed changes to the Community of Llanhennock have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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LLANOVER

466. The current community arrangements in Llanover consist of four wards: Llanddewi Rhydderch, Llanfair Cilgydyn, Llangattock-Nigh-Usk and Llanover. The community has a total electorate of 1,128 and is represented by 12 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Llanddewi Rhydderch 321 3 Llanfair Cilgydyn 179 2 Llangattock-Nigh-Usk 387 4 Llanover 241 3

467. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community will decrease to 997.

Representations 468. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Llanover which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 469. Representation was received from Llanover community, stating their objection to the review as a ‘waste of time and money’ and that ‘any changes made would be for change’s sake’. They stated the ‘present situation works well’ and advised the working group to ‘leave well alone’.

Draft Representations 470. Representations were received from Llanover Community Council supporting the proposals for its community. The community council propose the name of Gobion Fawr for the community.

Community boundary proposals 471. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply nine changes to the existing community boundary, a change to the name of the community and proposals which involve the transfer of areas between the Community of Llanover and the following communities: • Abergavenny • Goetre Fawr • Llanarth • Llanfoist Fawr

472. See paragraph 31 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Town of Abergavenny (Castle ward) into the proposed Community of Gobion Fawr (Llanddewi Rhydderch ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 13 of Volume 1.

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473. See paragraph 32 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of two areas from the Community of Llanover (Llangattock-Nigh-Usk and Llanddewi Rhydderch wards, respectively) into the Town of Abergavenny (proposed Pen-Y-Fal ward). This proposal is displayed on the maps on pages 14 and 15 of Volume 1.

474. See paragraph 263 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of the Llanover ward of the Community of Llanover, into the Community of Goetre Fawr. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 151 of Volume 1.

475. See paragraph 264 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llanover (Llanfair Cilgydyn ward) into the Community of Goetre Fawr (proposed Nant-Y-Derry ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 152 of Volume 1.

476. See paragraph 335 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of the Llanvapley ward of the Community of Llanarth into the proposed Community of Gobion Fawr. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 180 of Volume 1.

477. Alongside the proposal referenced in paragraph 335 (see Volume 1) above, The Council propose to transfer the land associated with Vinery Cottage from the Community of Llanarth (Llanvapley ward) into the proposed Community of Gobion Fawr (Llandewi Rhydderch ward). This proposal affects no electors. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 23.

478. See paragraph 336 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llanarth (Llanarth ward) into the proposed Community of Gobion Fawr (Llandewi Rhydderch ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 181 of Volume 1.

479. See paragraph 337 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llanover (Llangattock-Nigh-Usk ward) into the Community of Llanarth (Llanarth ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 182 of Volume 1.

480. See paragraph 407 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llanover (Llangattock-Nigh-Usk ward) into the Community of Llanfoist Fawr (Llanellen ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 5.

481. The Council proposed to change the name of the existing Community of Llanover due to the proposed community boundary change, outlined in paragraph 263 (see Volume 1), which sees the Llanover ward transferred out of this community. The Council propose the name of Gobion Fawr for this Community, as was suggested to them by the Community Council.

482. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals

483. The Council proposed no boundary changes between the internal community wards of the proposed Community of Gobion Fawr.

CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

484. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Llanover consist of four wards: Llanddewi Rhydderch, Llanfair Cilgydyn, Llangattock-Nigh-Usk and Llanvapley. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 997 and be represented by seven community councillors.

485. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Llanover Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Llanddewi 321 3 107 14% 331 2 166 16% Rhydderch Llanfair 179 2 90 -5% 176 1 176 24% Cilgydyn Llangattock- 387 4 97 3% 380 3 127 -11% Nigh-Usk Llanover 241 3 80 -15% - - - - Llanvapley - - - - 110 1 110 -23% 1128 12 94 997 7 142

486. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

487. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

488. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the name of the existing Community of Llanover the Commission recommend the same change be applied to the name of the existing electoral ward. The electoral ward is therefore recommended to be named Gobion Fawr. Page 24 MONMOUTHSHIRE FINAL REPORT AND PROPOSALS

489. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundary the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Goetre Fawr • Llanfoist Fawr • Llanover (proposed to be named Gobion Fawr)

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LOCAL DEMOCRACY AND BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

LLANTILIO CROSSENNY

490. The current community arrangements in Llantilio Crossenny consist of three wards: Llantilio Crossenny, Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern and Penrhos. The community has a total electorate of 580 and is represented by nine community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Llantilio Crossenny 362 6 Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern 71 1 Penrhos 147 2

491. As a result of these proposals the Community of Llantilio Crossenny, alongside the Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel, is proposed to form parts of the proposed Communities of Skenfrith and Whitecastle. The existing Community of Llantilio Crossenny is thereby dissolved.

492. For further information regarding the areas being transferred from the Community of Llantilio Crossenny into the proposed Community of Skenfrith, please see pages 158 to 169 below.

493. For further information regarding the areas being transferred from the Community of Llantilio Crossenny into the proposed Community of Whitecastle, please see pages 170 to 190 below.

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LLANTILIO PERTHOLEY

494. The current community arrangements in Llantilio Pertholey consist of six wards: Croesonen East, Croesonen West, Mardy, Pantygelli, Sgyrrid East and Sgyrrid West. The community has a total electorate of 3,098 and is represented by 13 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Croesonen East 556 2 Croesonen West 1131 5 Mardy 874 3 Pantygelli 85 1 Sgyrrid East 180 1 Sgyrrid West 272 1

495. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Llantilio Pertholey will decrease to 2,806.

Representations 496. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Llantilio Pertholey which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 497. Detailed representation was received from Abergavenny Town Council in relation to the arrangements for their own community as well as that of Llantilio Pertholey. In summary, their representation proposed amalgamating Mardy and Croesonen East & West into a community with Abergavenny and part of Llanfoist.

498. Llantilio Pertholey submitted an initial representation recommending amendments to anomalies to the boundaries within their area as well as including the proposal to amalgamate Croesonen East and West, and Sgyrrid East and West, into their own wards of Croesonen, and, Sgyrrid.

499. Llantilio Pertholey submitted a detailed secondary representation in objection to Abergavenny Town Council’s suggestion that the current community arrangements are not fit for purpose to deal with future changes. They provided examples of where communities are currently working together and capable of dealing with any future changes, and highlighted how the current arrangements allow for local knowledge, relationships and community cohesion that benefit residents. In addition, they outlined the negative effects and potential loss of services based on the proposals put forward by Abergavenny Town Council.

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Draft Representations 500. Members of Llantilio Pertholey Community Council were present at the public consultation seminar and noted the following points: They welcome the opportunity to review the existing arrangements and were pleased that points included in the initial representation had been considered. However, they raised concern regarding the proposals of the new boundary between Abergavenny and Croesonen at the boundary near Llwynu Lane. They consider the boundary difficult to identify given it follows property boundaries and think all properties within Llwynu Lane should be situated within the Croesonen ward.

Community boundary proposals 501. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply two changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Llantilio Pertholey and the following community: • Abergavenny

502. See paragraph 29 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llantilio Pertholey (Croesonen West ward) into the Town of Abergavenny (Lansdown ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 11 of Volume 1.

503. See paragraph 30 (Volume 1) above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llantilio Pertholey (Croesonen East ward) into the Town of Abergavenny (proposed Park ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 12 of Volume 1.

504. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals 505. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply eight changes to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey. This proposal involves a change to the existing boundaries of the following wards: • Croesonen East • Croesonen West • Mardy • Sgyrrid East • Sgyrrid West

Croesonen East 506. In addition to the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 503 above, The Council proposed to transfer the strip of land east of the A465 from the Croesonen East ward into the proposed Sgyrrid ward of the community. This is a continuation of the same boundary line applied between the proposed Community of Gobion Fawr and the Town of Abergavenny (to the south). This proposal affects no electors. 507. Further to the proposal above (paragraph 506) The Council propose to also transfer a small section of land to the west of the A465 from the Sgyrrid West ward into the proposed Croesonen ward. This extends the A465 boundary between the two wards further north, beyond the A465/B4521 junction, until it is aligned to the northernmost point of the existing Croesonen East ward. This proposal affects no electors.

508. The Council recommend transferring the northern half of The Newlands housing estate from the Sgyrrid West ward into the proposed Croesonen ward. This ensures there is no ward split across the housing estate. The Council do recommend that this boundary does not include Mardy Park Lodge within the transfer because this property is associated with Mardy Park which will be situated within the Mardy ward. This proposal affects approximately 30 properties.

509. The Council propose to combine the Croesonen East and Croesonen West wards to form the proposed Croesonen ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey. This proposal affects 1,614 electors.

510. A map displaying the proposed Croesonen ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey is shown on page 33.

Croesonen West 511. In addition to the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 502 above, see paragraph 509 above, for details of The Council’s proposal to combine the Croesonen East and Croesonen West wards to form the proposed Croesonen ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey. 512. The Council also propose to transfer Ysgol Gymraeg Y Fenni and the Recreational Hall and Grounds, including the residential properties between that area and Hereford Road, from the Mardy ward into the proposed Croesonen ward. This proposal affects approximately 35 residential dwellings, including approximately 10 small blocks of flats. Page 31 LOCAL DEMOCRACY AND BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

513. A map displaying the proposed Croesonen ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey is shown on page 33.

Mardy 514. In addition to the community ward boundary change outlined in paragraph 512 above, the Council propose to transfer the land between Hereford Road and the Gavenny River from the Sgyrrid West ward into the Mardy ward. This ensures that properties along Hereford Road fall within one ward. This proposal affects approximately 19 electors. 515. A map displaying the proposed Mardy ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey is shown on page 38.

Sgyrrid East 516. The Council propose to combine the Sgyrrid East and Sgyrrid West wards to form the proposed Sgyrrid ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey. This proposal affects 328 electors. 517. A map displaying the proposed Sgyrrid ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey is shown on page 40.

Sgyrrid West 518. See paragraph 506 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Croesonen East ward into the proposed Sgyrrid ward.

519. See paragraphs 507 and 508 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of two areas from the Sgyrrid West ward into the proposed Croesonen ward.

520. See paragraph 514 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Sgyrrid West ward into the Mardy ward.

521. See paragraph 516 above, for details of The Council’s proposal to combine the Sgyrrid East and Sgyrrid West wards to form the proposed Sgyrrid ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey.

522. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – 23.9 along the A465

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Insert proposal map – 23.11 Newlands estate (north)

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Insert proposal map – 23.15 Hereford Road/Gavenny River

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

523. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Llantilio Pertholey consist of four wards: Croesonen, Mardy, Pantygelli and Sgyrrid. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 2,806 and be represented by 15 community councillors.

524. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Llantilio Pertholey Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by Monmouthshire County Council Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Croesonen 556 2 278 17% - - - - East Croesonen 1131 5 226 -5% - - - - West Mardy 874 3 291 22% 779 6 130 -31% Pantygelli 85 1 85 -64% 85 1 85 -55% Sgyrrid East 180 1 180 -24% - - - - Sgyrrid West 272 1 272 14% - - - - Croesonen - - - - 1614 6 269 44% Sgyrrid - - - - 328 2 164 -12% 3098 13 238 2806 15 187

525. The Commission considered the community council electoral arrangements proposed by The Council and acknowledged that these were based upon projected increases within part of the community. However, the Commission have proposed the following amendments to the Council’s proposal based upon the existing electorate levels:

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Llantilio Pertholey Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by LDBCW Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Croesonen 556 2 278 17% - - - - East Croesonen 1131 5 226 -5% - - - - West Mardy 874 3 291 22% 779 3 260 11% Pantygelli 85 1 85 -64% 85 1 85 -64% Sgyrrid East 180 1 180 -24% - - - - Sgyrrid West 272 1 272 14% - - - - Croesonen - - - - 1614 6 269 15% Sgyrrid - - - - 328 2 164 -30% 3098 13 238 2806 12 234

526. This proposal reduces the range in electoral representation within the community and creates an arrangement which fits with the council’s aim for an ideal ratio of 250 electors per councillor in this area, providing greater equality and representation within the community.

527. The Commission is satisfied that the Commission’s proposed changes are in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

528. The Commission note that the size of the electorate within the proposed ward of Pantygelli, in comparison to other wards within the Community of Llantilio Pertholey, produces a high level of variance. However, the Commission did not feel it appropriate to recommend alternative arrangements for the area without consultation and recommend that consideration may need to be given towards reviewing this in a future review of electoral arrangements.

Electoral ward arrangements

529. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

530. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community and community ward boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Croesonen • Lansdown • Mardy • Priory (proposed to be named Park)

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LLANTRISANT FAWR

531. The current community arrangements in Llantrisant Fawr consist of two wards: Gwernesney and Llantrisant. The community has a total electorate of 329 and is represented by seven community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Gwernesney 116 3 Llantrisant 213 4

532. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Llantrisant Fawr will increase to 684.

Representations 533. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Llantrisant Fawr which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 534. Llantrisant Fawr Community Council submitted representation regarding their community, stating that, whilst the Community Council accept that there is a wide variation between levels of representation in Monmouthshire, strict levels of representation are less important than the recognition of geographical factors and natural boundaries of communities based on settlements. The Community Council feel that any enlargement of the existing community would result in a loss of community focus and attempting to create a community with a minimum of 1,000 electors would create a community of a large number of scattered villages with different priorities and interests. The Community Council highlight their belief that the prime function of a community is to represent the views, interests and act on behalf of a well-defined community based on patterns of human settlement and not predefined councillor to elector ratio. The Community Council believe that the current arrangements have proved effective in that it represents a small cluster of settlements with a shared sense of location and local identity; to that end they propose no change to the existing arrangements.

Draft Representations 535. Following the draft proposal to combine the Communities of Llangwm and Llantrisant Fawr, representation was received from Llantrisant Fawr Community Council noting the following points: Concerns regarding reduced representation across the communities; a larger council will result in a loss of focus and will not save any money; concerns at Gwernesney being a single member ward, and, recommendation to wait until the Williams Report proposals become clear.

536. Llangwm Community Council submitted representation objecting to the proposals and noted the following points in support of the representation made by Llantrisant Fawr Community Council: They believe that the current arrangements are effective and that there

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is little in common between the Llangwm and Llantrisant communities; oppose single member wards, and, raise concern at reducing the representation that is currently in place.

537. Representation was also submitted from one resident objecting to the proposals stating that Llansoy has no affinity with Llantrisant and stating their belief that there should be no single member wards on a council.

538. Representation was submitted from a resident supporting the proposed changes stating that no elections have been held to the Llansoy and Llangwm council for many years with most members co-opted and feels that her interests have not been represented but does feel that the community councillors intend to serve the community.

Community boundary proposals 539. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply one change to the existing community boundary, which involves a proposal to combine the following communities: • Llangwm • Llantrisant Fawr

540. The Council propose to combine the Llantrisant Fawr community with the existing Community of Llangwm, based upon the strong communication links that exist between the two communities (particularly between the Gwernesney ward (Community of Llantrisant Fawr) and the Community of Llangwm) and similarities in terms of rurality, area and size of electorate. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 46.

541. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – Community of Llantrisant Fawr (overview)

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Community ward boundary proposals

542. The Council proposed no boundary changes between the internal community wards of the Community of Llantrisant Fawr.

CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

543. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community of Llantrisant Fawr consist of four wards: Gwernesney, Llangwm, Llansoy and Llantrisant. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 684 and be represented by eight community councillors.

544. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Llantrisant Fawr Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Gwernesney 116 3 39 -18% 116 1 116 36% Llantrisant 213 4 53 13% 213 3 71 -17% Llangwm - - - - 224 3 75 -13% Llansoy - - - - 131 1 131 53% 329 7 47 684 8 86

545. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

546. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

547. In consideration of the proposed change to the community boundary the Commission recommend the wards of Gwernesney and Llantrisant remain within the Electoral ward of Llangybi.

548. In consideration of the proposed change to the community boundary the Commission recommend the wards of Llangwm and Llansoy remain within the Electoral ward of Devauden.

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MAGOR WITH UNDY

549. The current community arrangements in Magor with Undy consist of four wards: Denny, Mill, Salisbury and The Elms. The community has a total electorate of 4,676 and is represented by 13 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Denny 143 1 Mill 1331 4 Salisbury 734 2 The Elms 2468 6

550. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Magor with Undy will decrease to 4,598.

Representations 551. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Magor with Undy which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 552. No representations were received concerning the Community of Magor with Undy at the initial stage.

Draft Representations 553. Representations were received from Magor with Undy Community Council and noted the following points: An increase in electorate at Rockfield Farm and Vinegar Hill development sites; challenge the use of M4 as the northern boundary of the community and question the exceptions of Magor services and Knollbury being included in the community on this basis; provide historical reasons as to the names of the existing community wards and request the ward names remain, and, request the external boundary remains the same with the exception of Nanny Goat Cottage included in Magor with Undy, rather than Caerwent. The Council proposed counter electoral arrangements and warding arrangements.

554. The community council reluctantly accept the reasoning behind The Council’s proposal to change to Town Council status, and the urban elector/councillor ratio, but question the effect of devolved services and extra workloads on reduced councillor numbers.

Community boundary proposals 555. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply six changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Magor with Undy and the following communities: • Caerwent • Rogiet Page 48 MONMOUTHSHIRE FINAL REPORT AND PROPOSALS

556. See paragraph 74 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of two areas from the Community of Magor with Undy (Mill ward) into the Community of Caerwent (St Brides Netherwent ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 41 of Volume 1.

557. See paragraph 74 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Magor with Undy (Salisbury ward) into the Community of Caerwent (St Brides Netherwent ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 41 of Volume 1.

558. The Council proposed to transfer Grange Wood from the Community of Magor with Undy (Salisbury ward) into the Community of Rogiet. This ensures easily identifiable boundaries by placing the entire woodland area within one community. This proposal affects no electors. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 51.

559. The Council recommend transferring the property named Woodcroft and others which are situated north of Bencroft Lane from the Community of Magor with Undy (The Elms ward) into the Community of Rogiet. This proposal affects approximately twelve properties. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 52.

560. In addition to the proposal outlined in paragraph 559 above, The Council also propose to transfer a portion of a field at the northernmost point of the existing Mill ward (Community of Magor with Undy) into the Community of Rogiet. This proposal affects no electors but removes the anomaly which split the field. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 53.

561. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – Magor with Undy (overview)

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Insert proposal map – 25.7 Bencroft Wood

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Community ward boundary proposals 562. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply seven changes to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Magor with Undy. These proposals involves the introduction of three proposed wards (Magor East, Magor West and Undy) and include the dissolution of the following existing wards: • Denny • Mill • Salisbury • The Elms

Denny 563. The Council propose that the area west of Mill Reen forms part of the proposed Magor West ward of the Community of Magor with Undy. This proposal includes all properties along Whitewall and other small hamlets in the western half of this existing Denny ward, as well as the industrial units at Llandevenny. 564. Following the proposal outlined in paragraph 563 above, The Council propose that the remainder of the Denny ward forms part of the proposed Magor East ward of the Community of Magor with Undy. The existing Denny ward is thereby dissolved.

Mill 565. The Council propose that the area west of Mill Reen forms part of the proposed Magor West ward of the Community of Magor with Undy. This proposal includes a large portion of the village of Magor, north of the railway, and includes the Church of Wales Primary School and the Village Square. 566. Following the proposals outlined in paragraphs 74 (Volume 1), 560 and 565 above, The Council propose that the remainder of the Mill ward forms part of the proposed Magor East ward of the Community of Magor with Undy. The existing Mill ward is thereby dissolved.

Salisbury 567. Following the proposals outlined in paragraphs 74 (Volume 1) and 558 above, The Council propose that the remainder of the Salisbury ward forms part of the proposed Magor West ward of the Community of Magor with Undy. The existing Salisbury ward is thereby dissolved.

The Elms 568. Alongside the proposal outlined in paragraph 559 above The Council propose that the area north of the railway line, and residential streets with access onto Manor Chase/Rockfield Road (properties east of Vinegar Hill) be transferred from the ward of The Elms into the proposed Undy ward of the Community of Magor with Undy. This proposal affects 1,670 electors. 569. Following the proposals outlined in paragraphs 559 and 568 above, The Council propose to transfer the remainder of the existing ward of The Elms, into the proposed Magor East ward of the Community of Magor with Undy. This proposal affects 798 electors. The existing ward of The Elms is thereby dissolved. Page 54 MONMOUTHSHIRE FINAL REPORT AND PROPOSALS

Magor East (proposed) 570. The proposed Magor East ward is composed of areas which are proposed to be transferred from the existing wards of Denny, Mill and The Elms. These are outlined in paragraphs 564, 566 and 569 above. 571. A map displaying the proposed Magor East ward of the Community of Magor with Undy is shown on page 56.

Magor West (proposed) 572. The proposed Magor West ward is composed of areas which are proposed to be transferred from the existing wards of Denny, Mill and Salisbury. These are outlined in paragraphs 563, 565 and 567 above. 573. A map displaying the proposed Magor West ward, within the Community of Magor with Undy is shown on page 59.

Undy (proposed) 574. The proposed Undy ward is composed of area which is proposed to be transferred from the existing ward of The Elms, as outlined in paragraphs 568 above. 575. A map displaying the proposed Undy ward, within the Community of Magor with Undy is shown on page 62.

576. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – 25.15 mill east

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Insert proposal map – (overview) proposed Magor West ward

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Insert proposal map – 25.14 Mill west

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

577. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Magor with Undy consist of three wards: Magor East, Magor West and Undy. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 4,598 and be represented by 10 community councillors.

578. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Magor with Undy Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Denny 143 1 143 -60% - - - - Mill 1331 4 333 -7% - - - - Salisbury 734 2 367 2% - - - - The Elms 2468 6 411 14% - - - - Magor East - - - - 1802 4 451 -2% Magor West - - - - 1526 3 509 11% Undy - - - - 1270 3 423 -8% 4676 13 360 4598 10 460

579. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

580. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

581. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community and community ward boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Caerwent • Mill (proposed to be named Magor West) • Rogiet • The Elms (proposed to be named Magor East)

582. As the proposals for the Community of Magor with Undy include the dissolution of the existing wards within the community, this has a consequential effect upon the arrangements Page 63 LOCAL DEMOCRACY AND BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

for the electoral wards of Mill and The Elms. The Commission therefore recommends a single-member electoral ward is formed from the proposed Magor West ward of the Community of Magor with Undy; to be named, Magor West. This recommendation produces electoral ward arrangements with appropriate levels of electoral representation.

583. In addition to the recommendation outlined in paragraph 582 above, The Commission also recommends a two-member electoral ward is formed from the proposed Magor East and Undy wards of the Community of Magor with Undy; to be named, Magor East. This recommendation produces electoral ward arrangements with appropriate levels of electoral representation and increases the total members within the County Council by one; bringing the number of council members for Monmouthshire County Council closer to the Commission’s Council Size model.

Consequential Changes to Electoral Ward Arrangements Existing Proposed * † Electoral Electors Electoral Electors Electors Councillors per Variance Electors Councillors per Variance Wards Wards Councillor Councillor Mill 2208 1 2208 32% Magor West 1526 1 1526 -4% The Elms 2468 1 2468 48% Magor East 3072 2 1536 -4% 4676 2 4598 3

* (1673 electors per councillor) Based on the existing County Council arrangement of 43 members. † (1593 electors per councillor) Based on the proposed County Council arrangement of 45 members. See paragraph 3 (Volume 1) for more information. Page 64 MONMOUTHSHIRE FINAL REPORT AND PROPOSALS

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MATHERN

584. The current community arrangements in Mathern consist of three wards: Mathern, Mounton and Pwllmeyric. The community has a total electorate of 874 and is represented by nine community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Mathern 471 5 Mounton 77 1 Pwllmeyric 326 3

585. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Mathern will decrease to 859.

Representations 586. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Mathern which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 587. Community Councillor for the Mounton Ward, Carolyn Ovenden, submitted representations regarding the Mounton ward stating that the Mounton area has its own unique history but is closely linked to the other wards of the community. She also stated that the properties at the end of Mounton Road should be included in the Mounton Ward with Wellhead Lodge removed into the Community of St Arvans. 588. Councillor Ovenden also submitted a response on behalf of the council in her capacity as vice-chair, stating the following: The three wards within Mathern are each distinctive but historically linked and there is a thriving community life involving all three villages; all three villages are either rural or semi-rural and are geographically separate from similar areas nearby; the community is part of the Wye Valley AONB and conservation area reflecting the individual character of the area; the community is well balanced with all wards working together frequently towards a common goal providing the publication of local walks materials and safer conditions on the A48, as examples, and, the community and its residents are to devise a community led plan in collaboration with Adventa. The Community Council submitted recommendations for amendments to the internal boundaries included Hayesgate and Broadwell Farm from Mathern to Mounton, Mounton House from Mounton to Pwllmeyric, and, High Beech Lane into Pwllmeyric. 589. Councillor Ovenden submitted a secondary response to object to the proposal put forward by Chepstow Town Council to incorporate the remainder of New House Farm Industrial estate into the community of Chepstow. 590. County Councillor Graham Down submitted a representation regarding the community arrangements for Mathern broadly agreeing with the representation submitted by Mathern Community Council.

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Draft Representations 591. Representations were received from Mathern Community Council stating their belief that the entire New House Farm Industrial Estate should lie within Mathern Community Council due to the direct impact on the village in terms of noise and light pollution. The Council would prefer not to lose properties near High Beech Lane to Chepstow, suggesting a boundary following the link road and A48 preferable. The Council also provided examples of properties that could also be included in Mathern or changed between wards, and, raised concerns at the proposed reduction in the number of councillors.

592. Representation was also received from the then County Councillor for Mathern to suggest the boundary between Chepstow and Mathern should follow the A466 with properties of High Beech Lane falling into Mathern and the M48 acting as the boundary at the south. The Council also proposed for the eastern boundary to follow Mounton Road, and, noted a property on the Usk Road that falls within Mathern but has no affiliation to the Community of Mathern.

Community boundary proposals 593. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply five changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Mathern and the following communities: • Caerwent • Chepstow

594. See paragraph 77 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Mathern (Mathern ward) into the Community of Caerwent (Crick ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 44 of Volume 1.

595. See paragraph 77 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Mathern (Mounton ward) into the Community of Caerwent (Crick ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 44 of Volume 1.

596. See paragraphs 159 and 160 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of two area from the Community of Mathern (Mathern ward) into the Town of Chepstow (Larkfield and Thornwell wards). These proposals are displayed on the maps on pages 95 and 96 of Volume 1.

597. See paragraph 162 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Mathern (Mounton ward) into the Town of Chepstow (St Kingsmark ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 98 of Volume 1.

598. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – Mathern (overview)

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Community ward boundary proposals 599. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply one change to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Mathern. This proposal involves changes to the existing boundaries of the following wards: • Mounton • Pwllmeyric

Mounton 600. In addition to the external community boundary changes outlined in paragraphs 77 and 162 (see Volume 1) above, The Council propose that the area of Mounton House be transferred from the Mounton ward into the Pwllmeyric ward of the Community. This proposal transfers the property of, and land associated with, Bigs Woods, Mounton House Park and Mounton House Special School, between Mounton Brook (west) and St Lawrence Lane (east). This proposal affects 50 electors. 601. A map displaying the proposed Mounton ward of the Community of Mathern is shown on page 70.

Pwllmeyric 602. In addition to the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 77 (see Volume 1) above, see paragraph 600 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Mounton ward into the Pwllmeyric ward of the community. 603. A map displaying the proposed Pwllmeyric ward of the Community of Mathern is shown on page 72.

604. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

605. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Mathern consist of three wards: Mathern, Mounton and Pwllmeyric. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 859 and be represented by seven community councillors.

606. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Mathern Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Mathern 471 5 94 -3% 456 3 152 24% Mounton 77 1 77 -21% 77 1 77 -37% Pwllmeyric 326 3 109 12% 326 3 109 -11% 874 9 97 859 7 123

607. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

608. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

609. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundary the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Caerwent • Larkfield (proposed to be named Larkfield and St Kingsmark) • Shirenewton • Thornwell

610. The proposed changes to the internal warding arrangements within the Community of Mathern have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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MITCHEL TROY

611. The current community arrangements in Mitchel Troy consist of five wards: Cwmcarvan, Dingestow, Mitchel Troy, Tregare and Wonastow. The community has a total electorate of 993 and is represented by 10 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Cwmcarvan 162 2 Dingestow 234 2 Mitchel Troy 341 3 Tregare 179 2 Wonastow 77 1

612. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Mitchel Troy will increase to 1,131.

Representations 613. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Mitchel Troy which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 614. Mitchel Troy community council submitted a representation stating that the council had no desire to increase, decrease or alter the boundaries within the community. They also state that whilst the councillor/elector ratio is relatively low, it was felt that the concept of over representation was irrelevant since community councillors are volunteers and therefore costless. Additionally the councillors represent a large area that is sparsely populated. Draft Representations 615. Representation was received from the then County Councillor for Mitchel Troy noting an anomaly that Dingestow with 234 electors have one councillor but Tregare with 223 have two councillors.

616. Representation was also received from Raglan Community Council detailing representations they had received objecting to the proposal to remove Cuckoos Row and The Warrage from within the Raglan Community.

Community boundary proposals 617. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply four changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Mitchel Troy and the following communities: • Monmouth • Raglan • Whitecastle (proposed)

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618. The Council propose to transfer the Pen-y-Clawdd ward from the Community of Raglan into the Community of Mitchel Troy. The Council suggest that this ward has better links with the Community of Mitchel Troy, compared to the remainder of the Raglan Community. This proposal involves the transfer of the whole community ward and affects 99 electors. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 77.

619. The Council intend to use the junction for the A40/A449 as the clear and identifiable boundary between the Communities of Raglan and Mitchel Troy (Tregare ward). The Council therefore propose to transfer the properties of Cuckoo’s Row and adjacent Groesenon Road (north of the A40/A449 junction) from the Community of Raglan (Raglan ward) into the Community of Mitchel Troy (Tregare ward). This proposal affects approximately 30 properties. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 78.

620. The Council propose to transfer the property of, and land associated with, Troy House from the Community of Mitchel Troy (Mitchel Troy ward) into the Town of Monmouth (Overmonnow ward). This transfers the area between the properties of Millbrook Garden Centre/Borrowdale (west) and the eastern edge of land associated with Troy Farm (east), and affects five electors. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 79.

621. The Council propose to transfer the property of Cefn Garw Farm from the Community of Mitchell Troy (Tregare ward) into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (Llanvihangel- Ystern-Llewern ward). This includes the area north of Nant Wachan stream, surrounding Cefn Garw Farm. This proposal affects approximately one property. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 80.

622. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals 623. The Council proposed no boundary changes between the internal community wards of the Community of Mitchel Troy.

CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

624. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community of Mitchel Troy consist of six wards: Cwmcarvan, Dingestow, Mitchel Troy, Pen- Y-Clawdd, Tregare and Wonastow. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 1,131 and be represented by nine community councillors.

625. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Mitchel Troy Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Cwmcarvan 162 2 81 -18% 162 1 162 29% Dingestow 234 2 117 18% 234 2 117 -7% Mitchel Troy 341 3 114 14% 336 2 168 34% Tregare 179 2 90 -10% 223 2 112 -11% Wonastow 77 1 77 -22% 77 1 77 -39% Pen-y-Clawdd - - - - 99 1 99 -21% 993 10 99 1131 9 126

626. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

627. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

628. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundary the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Llantilio Crossenny • Mitchel Troy • Overmonnow • Raglan Page 81 LOCAL DEMOCRACY AND BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

MONMOUTH

629. The current town arrangements in Monmouth consist of five wards: Dixton with Osbaston, Drybridge, Overmonnow, Town and Wyesham. The town has a total electorate of 7,994 and is represented by 16 town councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Town Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Dixton with Osbaston 1902 4 Drybridge 2051 3 Overmonnow 1774 4 Town 588 1 Wyesham 1679 4

630. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Town of Monmouth will decrease to 7,822.

Representations 631. The Council received several representations concerning the Town of Monmouth which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 632. Monmouth Town Council submitted a representation proposing that the boundary of Dixton with Osbaston is amended to follow the River Monnow rather than Osbaston Road as well as recommending another community councillor for the Drybridge ward. They also recommended reviewing the electoral ward of Drybridge and Town, as Overmonnow and Town, may be a more suitable combination.

Draft Representations 633. Representations were received from the County Councillor for the Overmonnow ward objecting to any changes to the boundaries of the Overmonnow ward other than any new developments to be included in the Overmonnow ward or the new developments becoming a ward of their own.

634. Representation was received from the then County Councillor Susan White objecting to the proposals stating that Overmonnow was an ancient settlement and town in its own right and will lose the heart of the community through the church, church hall and local businesses. The Councillor proposed that the Wonastow Road development is included in Drybridge ward with an additional councillor for that ward.

635. Councillor Jeana Hall submitted representation in relation to the Dixton with Osbaston ward suggesting the proposed boundary would better sit to the left side of Dixton Road, The Parade and Monk Street.

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636. A resident of Overmonnow submitted representation to the group objecting to the changes for Overmonnow due to historic and ancient links within the ward.

637. Another resident submitted representation objecting to the proposals for Overmonnow due to historic and ancient links within the ward.

638. Councillor S. Chivers also submitted representation objecting to the proposals for the Overmonnow ward due to historic links of the the Overmonnow ward.

639. Representation was submitted on behalf of the Welsh Independent Party suggesting a cut in County Councillors for the area and throughout Monmouthshire.

640. Representation was received from Councillor Graham Pritchard relating to the councillor:elector ratio who felt that a ratio of 1:600 would be more practical for the community and that representation should be based on population rather than electorate.

641. Monmouth Town Council submitted a copy of the minutes in relation to the discussion on the issue at a Town Council meeting. From the minutes it appears to broadly support the proposals for Monmouth with the main issue being the number of councillors on the Council that shouldn’t be increased to 19 but could not agree a more suitable scheme.

Town boundary proposals 642. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply two changes to the existing town boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Town of Monmouth and the following communities: • Mitchell Troy • Whitecastle (proposed)

643. See paragraph 620 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Mitchell Troy (Mitchel Troy ward) into the Community of Monmouth (Overmonnow ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 79.

644. The Council propose to transfer the Rockfield Studios area from the Community of Monmouth (Drybridge ward) into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (proposed Rockfield & St Maughans ward). This includes the properties of, and land associated with, Amberley Court, Deepholme Farm, Little Ancrehill Farmhouse and Little Ancrehill Wood, which are all situated along the B4233 Rockfield Road. This proposal affects approximately three properties. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 85.

645. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – 22.10 Rockfield Studios

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Town ward boundary proposals 646. Alongside the changes being proposed to the town boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply six changes to the internal ward boundaries of the Town of Monmouth. These proposals involve changes to the boundaries of the following wards: • Dixton with Osbaston • Drybridge • Overmonnow • Town

Dixton with Osbaston 647. The Council propose that the properties along, and north of, Forge Road should be transferred from the Town ward into the proposed Osbaston ward of the Town of Monmouth. This includes all areas north of the River Monnow, as it runs parallel with Forge Road, as far south as the bridge over the river (between the TA Centre and Osbaston Road). This proposal affects approximately twelve residential properties. 648. The Council propose to transfer the properties located on The Parade and the A466 Dixton Road from the Dixton with Osbaston ward into the Town ward. This proposal ensures properties on opposite sides of the same road, fall within the same community and promotes the use of clear and identifiable boundaries, affecting approximately 35-40 properties. 649. The Council proposed to change the name of the existing Dixton and Osbaston ward of the Town of Monmouth as a consequence of transferring much of the Dixton area into the neighbouring ward of Town. The new name of the ward is proposed to be Osbaston. 650. A map displaying the proposed Osbaston ward of the Town of Monmouth is shown on page 88.

Drybridge 651. In addition to the external community boundary proposal outlined in paragraph 644 above, The Council proposed the area west of the River Monnow, centred upon the TA Centre, be transferred from the Town ward into the Drybridge ward. 652. The Council recommend that an area of land to the west of Singleton Court Business Park/Wonastow Road Industrial Estate is transferred from the Drybridge ward into the Overmonnow ward. This area is earmarked for future development and would be split across two wards if the current ward boundaries remained. This proposal affects no electors, at present, but is planned to include an area of 350 properties. 653. The Council propose that the properties between Singleton Court Business Park and the River Monnow, including Bridges Community Centre, Drybridge Park and the properties along St Thomas Road, be transferred from the Drybridge ward into the Town ward. This proposal affects several residential streets. 654. A map displaying the proposed Drybridge ward of the Town of Monmouth is shown on page 91.

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Overmonnow 655. In addition to the external community boundary proposal outlined in paragraph 620, see paragraph 652 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Drybridge ward into the Overmonnow ward. 656. The Council proposed the area west of the River Monnow, including the properties accessible along Goldwire Lane/ Somerset Road and properties north of Wonastow Road (east of Singleton Court Business Park), be transferred from the Overmonnow ward into the Town ward. This proposal affects a large number of residential streets. 657. A map displaying the proposed Overmonnow ward of the Town of Monmouth is shown on page 95.

Town 658. See paragraph 647 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Town ward into the proposed Osbaston ward. 659. See paragraph 648 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Dixton with Osbaston ward into the Town ward. 660. See paragraph 651 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Town ward into the Drybridge ward. 661. See paragraph 653 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Drybridge ward into the Town ward. 662. See paragraph 656 above, for details of The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Overmonnow ward into the Town ward. 663. A map displaying the proposed Town ward of the Town of Monmouth is shown on page 97.

664. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – 28.10 The Parade and A466

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Insert proposal map – (overview) Drybridge ward

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Insert proposal map – 28.11 West of River Monnow

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Insert proposal map – 28.12 Area for new Housing

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Town Council electoral arrangements

665. The recommended town electoral arrangements following the changes to the town and town wards within Monmouth consist of five wards: Drybridge, Osbaston, Overmonnow, Town and Wyesham. The town is proposed to have a total electorate of 7,822 and be represented by 19 town councillors.

666. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the town electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the town council can be seen below:

Monmouth Town Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by Monmouthshire County Council Electors Electors Town Town Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Wards Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Dixton with 1902 4 476 -5% - - - - Osbaston Drybridge 2051 3 684 37% 1721 4 430 5% Overmonnow 1774 4 444 -11% 1062 4 266 -36% Town 588 1 588 18% 1676 3 559 36% Wyesham 1679 4 420 -16% 1679 4 420 2% Osbaston - - - - 1684 4 421 2% 7994 16 500 7822 19 412

667. The Commission considered the town council electoral arrangements proposed by The Council and acknowledged that these were based upon projected increases within parts of the town. However, the Commission have proposed the following amendments to the Council’s proposal based upon the existing electorate levels:

Monmouth Town Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by LDBCW Electors Electors Town Town Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Dixton with 1902 4 476 -5% - - - - Osbaston Drybridge 2051 3 684 37% 1721 4 430 5% Overmonnow 1774 4 444 -11% 1062 3 354 -14% Town 588 1 588 18% 1676 4 419 2% Wyesham 1679 4 420 -16% 1679 4 420 2% Osbaston - - - - 1684 4 421 2% 7994 16 500 7822 19 412

668. This proposal creates an arrangement which reduces the range in electoral representation within the town and does provide more equal representation for proposed wards with roughly the same electorate size. Page 98 MONMOUTHSHIRE FINAL REPORT AND PROPOSALS

669. The Commission is satisfied that the Commission’s proposed changes are in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

670. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

671. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the town boundary and the warding arrangements within Monmouth the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Dixton with Osbaston (proposed to be named Osbaston) • Drybridge • Llantilio Crossenny • Mitchel Troy • Overmonnow

672. The Commission recommends an additional member is added to the electoral ward of Drybridge. The creation of a multi-member ward in this electoral ward produces electoral arrangements with appropriate levels of electoral representation and increases the total members within the County Council by one; bringing the number of council members for Monmouthshire County Council closer to the Commission’s Council Size model.

Consequential Changes to Electoral Ward Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors* Electors† Electoral Electoral Electors Councillors per Variance Electors Councillors per Variance Wards Wards Councillor Councillor Dixton with 1902 1 1902 14% Osbaston 1684 1 1684 6% Osbaston Drybridge 2639 1 2639 58% Drybridge 3397 2 1699 7% Overmonnow 1774 1 1774 6% Overmonnow 1062 1 1062 -33% Wyesham 1679 1 1679 0% Wyesham 1679 1 1679 5% 7994 4 7822 5

* (1673 electors per councillor) Based on the existing County Council arrangement of 43 members. † (1593 electors per councillor) Based on the proposed County Council arrangement of 45 members. See paragraph 3 (Volume 1) for more information. Page 99 LOCAL DEMOCRACY AND BOUNDARY COMMISSION FOR WALES

PORTSKEWETT

673. The current community arrangements in Portskewett consist of three wards: Leechpool, Portskewett Village and Sudbrook. The community has a total electorate of 1,765 and is represented by 10 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Leechpool 168 1 Portskewett Village 1308 7 Sudbrook 289 2

674. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Portskewett will decrease to 1,760.

Representations 675. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Portskewett which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 676. No representations were received concerning the Community of Portskewett at the initial stage.

Draft Representations 677. Representations were received from Portskewett Community Council in support of the Severn Bridge Industrial Estate moving into the community of Caldicot. The Council were concerned that the Leechpool boundary is a staggered boundary rather than a neat block, and, believe Sudbrook requires two councillors due to additional development in the ward.

678. Representation was also received from the County Councillor for Portskewett supporting the points made by the community council.

Community boundary proposals 679. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply two changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Portskewett and the following communities: • Caerwent • Caldicot

680. See paragraph 76 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Portskewett (Leechpool ward) into the Community of Caerwent (Crick ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 43 of Volume 1.

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681. See paragraph 111 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Portskewett (Portskewett Village ward) into the Town of Caldicot (Severn ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 63 of Volume 1.

682. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals 683. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply one change to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Portskewett. This proposal involves changes to the boundaries of the following wards: • Leechpool • Portskewett Village

Leechpool 684. In addition to the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 76 (see Volume 1) above, The Council proposed to transfer the northern half of Treetops Housing Estate from the Leechpool ward into the Portskewett Village ward of the Community. The Council intend for the entire housing estate to fall within a single community ward and also intent to include the land between Treetops Housing estate and the B4245 to its north within the transfer due to future planned residential development. This proposal affects approximately 48 properties. 685. A map displaying the proposed Leechpool ward of the Community of Portskewett is shown on page 104.

Portskewett Village 686. In addition to the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 111 (see Volume 1), see paragraph 684 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Leechpool ward into the Portskewett Village ward.

687. A map displaying the proposed Portskewett Village ward of the Community of Portskewett is shown on page 106.

688. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

689. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Portskewett consist of three wards: Leechpool, Portskewett Village and Sudbrook. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 1,760 and be represented by 10 community councillors.

690. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Portskewett Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Leechpool 168 1 168 -5% 163 1 163 -7% Portskewett 1308 7 187 6% 1308 7 187 6% Village Sudbrook 289 2 145 -18% 289 2 145 -18% 1765 10 177 1760 10 176

691. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

692. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

693. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Caerwent • Portskewett • Severn

694. The proposed changes to the internal warding arrangements within the Community of Portskewett have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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RAGLAN

695. The current community arrangements in Raglan consist of three wards: Llandenny, Pen-y- Clawdd and Raglan. The community has a total electorate of 1,585 and is represented by 11 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Llandenny 366 2 Pen-y-Clawdd 99 1 Raglan 1120 8

696. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Raglan will increase to 1,659.

Representations 697. The Council received one representation concerning the Community of Raglan which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 698. No representations were received concerning the Community of Raglan at the initial stage.

Draft Representations 699. Representations were received from Raglan Community Council who provided a detailed analysis of the work the council and its councillors cover. The Council raised concerns at reducing the number of councillors and at the transfer of Cuckoos Row and the Warrage to Mitchel Troy. The Council also consider that Gwehelog residents would receive an increase in precept to cover issues in Raglan when they may be more associated with Usk.

Community boundary proposals 700. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply six changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Raglan and the following communities: • Gwehelog Fawr • Llanarth • Mitchel Troy

701. See paragraph 318 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Gwehelog Fawr (Gwehelog ward) into the Community of Raglan (proposed Gwehelog ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 174 of Volume 1.

702. See paragraph 318 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Gwehelog Fawr (Gwehelog ward) into the Community of Raglan (Llandenny ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 174 of Volume 1.

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703. See paragraph 339 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llanarth (Bryngwyn ward) into the Community of Raglan (Raglan ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 184 of Volume 1.

704. See paragraph 340 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llanarth (Clytha ward) into the Community of Raglan (Raglan ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 185 of Volume 1.

705. See paragraph 618 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Raglan (Pen-y-Clawdd ward) into the Community of Mitchell Troy (proposed Pen-y-Clawdd ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 77.

706. See paragraph 619 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Raglan (Raglan ward) into the Community of Mitchell Troy (Tregare ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 78.

707. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals 708. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply one change to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Raglan. This proposal involves changes to the boundaries of the following ward: • Llandenny

Llandenny 709. In addition to the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 318 (see Volume 1) above, The Council proposed to transfer the area east of the A449 from the Llandenny ward into the proposed Kingcoed ward of the Community of Raglan. This proposal affects 146 properties. 710. A map displaying the proposed Llandenny ward of the Community of Raglan is shown on page 112.

Kingcoed (proposed) 711. The proposed Kingcoed ward is composed of the area which is proposed to be transferred from the existing ward of Llandenny, as described in paragraph 709 above. 712. A map displaying the proposed Kingcoed ward, within the Community of Raglan is shown on page 113. 713. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – (overview) Llandenny ward

Page 112 MONMOUTHSHIRE FINAL REPORT AND PROPOSALS

Insert proposal map – (overview) proposed Kingcoed ward

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

714. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Raglan consist of four wards: Llandenny, Gwehelog, Kingcoed and Raglan. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 1,659 and be represented by nine community councillors.

715. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Raglan Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by Monmouthshire County Council Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Llandenny 366 2 183 27% 220 2 110 -40% Pen-y-Clawdd 99 1 99 -31% - - - - Raglan 1120 8 140 -3% 1070 4 268 45% Gwehelog - - - - 223 2 112 -40% Kingcoed - - - - 146 1 146 -21% 1585 11 144 1659 9 184

716. The Commission considered the community council electoral arrangements proposed by The Council and proposed the following amendments to the Council’s proposal:

Raglan Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by LDBCW Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Llandenny 366 2 183 27% 220 1 220 19% Pen-y-Clawdd 99 1 99 -31% - - - - Raglan 1120 8 140 -3% 1070 6 178 -3% Gwehelog - - - - 223 1 223 21% Kingcoed - - - - 146 1 146 -21% 1585 11 144 1659 9 184

717. This proposal reduces the range in electoral representation within the community and retains a nine-member community council arrangement, as proposed by The Council. This proposal provides greater equality of representation within the community.

718. The Commission is satisfied that the Commission’s proposed changes are in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Electoral ward arrangements

719. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

720. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Llanbadoc • Llanover (proposed to be named Gobion Fawr) • Mitchel Troy • Raglan

721. The proposed changes to the internal warding arrangements within the Community of Raglan have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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ROGIET

722. The current Community of Rogiet is unwarded. The community has a total electorate of 1,349 and is represented by 11 community councillors.

723. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Rogiet will increase to 1,370.

Representations 724. The Council received no representations concerning the Community of Rogiet.

Community boundary proposals 725. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply eight changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Rogiet and the following communities: • Caerwent • Caldicot • Magor with Undy

726. See paragraph 75 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of three areas from the Community of Caerwent (St Brides Netherwent ward) into the Community of Rogiet. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 42 of Volume 1.

727. See paragraph 112 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Town of Caldicot (West End ward) into the Community of Rogiet. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 65 of Volume 1.

728. See paragraph 112 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Rogiet into the Town of Caldicot (West End ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 64 of Volume 1.

729. See paragraph 558 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Magor with Undy (Salisbury ward) into the Community of Rogiet. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 51.

730. See paragraphs 559 and 560 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of two areas from the Community of Magor with Undy (Mill and The Elms wards) into the Community of Rogiet. These proposals are displayed on the maps on pages 52 and 53.

731. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

732. The proposed community of Rogiet is unwarded. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 1,370 and be represented by seven community councillors.

733. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Rogiet Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Rogiet 1349 11 123 0% 1370 7 196 0% 1349 11 123 1370 7 196

734. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

735. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

736. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundary the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Caerwent • Mill (proposed to be named Magor West) • Rogiet • The Elms (proposed to be named Magor East) • West End

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SHIRENEWTON

737. The current community arrangements in Shirenewton consist of four wards: Earlswood, Mynyddbach, Newchurch and Shirenewton. The community has a total electorate of 915 and is represented by 10 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Earlswood 143 2 Mynyddbach 217 2 Newchurch 91 1 Shirenewton 464 5

738. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Shirenewton will decrease to 899.

Representations 739. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Shirenewton which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 740. Shirenewton Community Council submitted a representation stating that the community is a distinct area with an identifiable community. They state there are several positive links between the community wards including the community having responsibility for the poor land field and area of forestry in Earlswood, responsibility for Earlswood Village Hall and recreation land in Shirenewton as well as offering financial support to churches, chapels and organisations within the community.

741. Shirenewton Community Council recommend reducing the number of wards within the community to two those being Earlswood and Newchurch West ward and Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward. The community suggest a divide between the two wards at Cock-A- Roosting and are keen to ensure that all village names are kept within the new ward titles. They also suggest a member ratio of five for Shirenewton & Mynyddbach ward and three for Earlswood & Newchurch West ward based on the criteria contained in the terms of reference.

742. County Councillor Graham Down submitted a representation regarding the community arrangements for Shirenewton supporting the representation put forward by Shirenewton Community Council. County Councillor Down also referenced a number of dwellings to the west of Crick Road that are better suited to Shirenewton than their current community of Caerwent.

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Draft Representations 743. Representations were received from Shirenewton Community Council which noted the following: That the ward names retain the current ward names of Shirenewton & Mynyddbach and Earlswood & Newchurch rather than Wentwood, that Earlswood & Newchurch is increased to three councillors from two, and, noted a number of properties to be situated in the Shirenewton ward.

744. Representation was also received from the County Councillor for Shirenewton supporting the representation from the Community Council but also noted a few properties on the western side of Crick Road should be situated in Shirenewton rather than Caerwent. The Councillor also proposed that the boundary between Earlswood and Shirenewton be drawn between Cock-A-Roosting with everything north of the line in Earlswood.

Community boundary proposals 745. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply two changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of Shirenewton and the following communities: • Devauden • St Arvans

746. See paragraph 240 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Shirenewton (Mynyddbach and Shirenewton wards) into the Community of Devauden (Itton ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 141 of Volume 1.

747. The Council propose to transfer the area of Beech Wood, Coppice Mawr and Yewtree Wood from the Community of St Arvans into the Community of Shirenewton (proposed Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward). This proposal transfers the properties of Middle Lodge and Wellhead Lodge, in addition to the woodland areas along Long Orchard. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 123.

748. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals 749. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply four changes to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Shirenewton. This proposal involves changes to the boundaries of the following wards: • Earlswood • Mynyddbach • Newchurch • Shirenewton

Earlswood 750. The Council proposed to combine the Earlswood and Newchurch wards to form the proposed Earlswood and Newchurch ward of the Community of Shirenewton. This proposal affects 289 electors. 751. The Council propose to transfer the properties of Grove View, Little Mill, The Ostrey and Whitebrook, along with the land associated with these properties, lying south of Mounton Brook, from the Earlswood ward into the proposed Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward. This proposal affects four properties.

752. The Council propose to transfer the properties and arable land accessible off Earlswood Road (beyond (north of) the Batwell Lane turn-off), from the Shirenewton ward into the proposed Earlswood and Newchurch ward. This proposal affects approximately 50 properties.

753. A map displaying the proposed Earlswood and Newchurch ward of the Community of Shirenewton is shown on page 126.

Mynyddbach 754. In addition to the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 240 (see Volume 1) above, The Council proposed to combine the Mynyddbach and Shirenewton wards to form the proposed Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward of the Community of Shirenewton. This proposal affects 610 electors. 755. A map displaying the proposed Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward of the Community of Shirenewton is shown on page 129.

Newchurch 756. See paragraph 750 above, for The Council’s proposal to combine the Earlswood and Newchurch wards to form the proposed Earlswood and Newchurch ward of the Community of Shirenewton. 757. A map displaying the proposed Earlswood and Newchurch ward of the Community of Shirenewton is shown on page 126.

Shirenewton 758. In addition to the external community boundary changes outlined in paragraphs 240 (see Volume 1) and 747, see paragraph 754 above, for The Council’s proposal to combine the

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Mynyddbach and Shirenewton wards to form the proposed Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward of the Community of Shirenewton.

759. See paragraph 751 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Earlswood ward into the proposed Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward. 760. See paragraph 752 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Shirenewton ward into the proposed Earlswood and Newchurch ward.

761. A map displaying the proposed Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward of the Community of Shirenewton is shown on page 129.

762. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

763. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Shirenewton consist of two wards: Earlswood and Newchurch, and, Shirenewton and Mynyddbach. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 899 and be represented by seven community councillors.

764. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Shirenewton Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Earlswood 143 2 72 -22% - - - - Mynyddbach 217 2 109 19% - - - - Newchurch 91 1 91 -1% - - - - Shirenewton 464 5 93 1% - - - - Earlswood and - - - - 289 2 145 13% Newchurch Shirenewton and - - - - 610 5 122 -5% Mynyddbach 915 10 92 899 7 128

765. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

766. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

767. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Devauden • Shirenewton • St Arvans

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768. The proposed changes to the internal warding arrangements within the Community of Shirenewton have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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ST ARVANS

769. The current Community of St Arvans is unwarded. The community has a total electorate of 626 and is represented by eight community councillors.

770. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of St Arvans will decrease to 596.

Representations 771. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of St Arvans which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 772. Representation was received from Chepstow Town Council in relation to Chepstow Racecourse. The council believe that the racecourse should fall within their remit and not that of St Arvans, reasoning that it is naturally assumed that the racecourse falls within their area and receive a number of enquiries regarding the racecourse as well as highlighting that many of the visitors to the racecourse have to travel through the Chepstow community to attend the racecourse.

Draft Representations 773. Representations were received from St Arvans Community Council stating that Piercefield House is historically linked with St Arvans, and the church and the racecourse allow residents of St Arvans to use part of its land for recreational purposes. The Council highlight the relationship built up with the racecourse and community council to deal with issues arising at events on the racecourse and maintenance of the boundary impinging on highways. They do not wish to lose the area of land at the south of the community and believe that the Tintern community should decide if Penterry were to move into St Arvans. The council wish to retain 8 councillors as per the current arrangements.

774. A significant number of representations were received from residents and councillors of St Arvans Community Council supporting the representations from St Arvans Community Council.

775. A member of The Council’s working group also conducted a site visit with the Community Council to ensure the concerns of the community council were understood fully.

776. Representation was also received from residents supporting the proposals but also recommended further changes of incorporating St Arvans as a ward of Chepstow Town Council and dissolving the community council altogether. A number of views were also provided countering the representation submitted by St Arvans Community Council.

777. Representation was received in relation to the property The Tout which currently is situated in the Itton ward in Devauden but its access is through Piccadilly Lane and the rest of the Penterry ward and recommended that this property should be moved into the Penterry ward. Page 132 MONMOUTHSHIRE FINAL REPORT AND PROPOSALS

Community boundary proposals 778. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply five changes to the existing community boundary, which involves proposals to transfer areas between the Community of St Arvans and the following communities: • Chepstow • Devauden • Shirenewton • Tintern (proposed to named Wye Valley)

779. See paragraph 161 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of St Arvans into the Town of Chepstow (St Kingsmark ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 97 of Volume 1.

780. See paragraph 239 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of St Arvans into the Community of Devauden (Itton ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 140 of Volume 1.

781. See paragraph 241 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Devauden (Itton ward) into the Community of St Arvans. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 142 of Volume 1.

782. See paragraph 747 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of St Arvans into the Community of Shirenewton (proposed Shirenewton and Mynyddbach ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 123.

783. The Council propose to transfer the properties located to the east of Ravensnest Wood and Fedw Wood from the Community of Tintern (Penterry ward) into the Community of St Arvans. This proposal includes the area of Sychbant Wood and Fairoak Pond, and affects approximately seven properties. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 135.

784. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – 33.8 East of Ravensnest Wood

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

785. The proposed community of St Arvans is unwarded. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 596 and be represented by seven community councillors.

786. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

St Arvans Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor St Arvans 626 8 78 0% 596 7 85 0% 626 8 78 596 7 85

787. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

788. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

789. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundary the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Devauden • Shirenewton • St Arvans • St Kingsmark (proposed to be named Larkfield and St Kingsmark)

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TINTERN

790. The current community arrangements in Tintern consist of four wards: Chapel Hill, Penterry, Tintern Parva and Trellech Grange. The community has a total electorate of 687 and is represented by eight community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Chapel Hill 200 3 Penterry 55 1 Tintern Parva 360 3 Trellech Grange 72 1

791. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Tintern will increase to 1,001.

Representations 792. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Tintern which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 793. Representation was received from County Councillor Ann Webb who strongly opposed moving the Trellech Grange ward of the community of Tintern in to the community of Trellech United.

794. Trellech Community Council submitted representations proposing the above amendment for the Far Hill area. In addition, the council proposed that the Trellech Grange ward of Tintern Community Council be moved under responsibility for Trellech United and merged with the Llanishen ward. The Council state that there are established links between Llanishen and Trellech Grange, the school catchment area for Trellech Grange is Trellech Primary School within Trellech United and that the Fountain Inn is the ‘local’ for residents within the Catbrook ward of Trellech United.

795. George Weston, Community Councillor for the Llanishen ward of Trellech United Community Council submitted a detailed proposal for new community arrangements within the Trellech United community. In summary he proposed to merge the Trellech Grange ward of Tintern Community Council with the Llanishen ward of Trellech United.

Draft Representations 796. Representation was received from Tintern Community Council noting that the current arrangements work well but they were happy with the transfer of Penterry to St Arvans and Llandogo to be included in its area. It also noted that it did not want to lose Trellech Grange to the community of Trellech given its historic links to Tintern Abbey.

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797. Several representations were also received from residents objecting to the proposal to move Trellech Grange ward to the Community of Trellech based on its historic links to Tintern Abbey.

Community boundary proposals 798. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply four changes to the existing community boundary, a change to the name of the community and proposals which involves the transfer of areas between the Community of Tintern and the following communities: • Devauden • St Arvans • Trellech United

799. See paragraph 238 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Tintern (Penterry ward) into the Community of Devauden (Devauden ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 139 of Volume 1.

800. See paragraph 783 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Tintern (Penterry ward) into the Community of St Arvans. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 135.

801. The Council propose to transfer the Llandogo ward from the Community of Trellech United, into the proposed Community of Wye Valley. The Council considered that the main route of access out of the Llandogo ward was via the A466 (south) into the Community of Tintern, rather than across single track lanes into the remainder of the Community of Trellech United. This transfer affects 441 electors. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 141.

802. The Council propose to transfer the Trellech Grange ward from the Community of Tintern, into the Community of Trellech United. The Council received representation considering this proposal and supported the views they received. This transfer affects 72 electors. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 142.

803. The Council proposed to change the name of the existing Community of Tintern. The Council propose the name of Wye Valley for this Community.

804. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – 34.7 Trellech Grange

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Community ward boundary proposals 805. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply two changes to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Tintern. This proposal involves changes to the boundaries of the following wards: • Chapel Hill • Penterry • Tintern Parva

Chapel Hill 806. The Council proposed to combine the Chapel Hill and Tintern Parva wards to form the proposed Tintern ward of the Community of Tintern. This also includes the small area of Cross Farm, north of Ravensnest Wood, which is currently within the Penterry ward of the Community of Tintern. This proposal affects 560 electors. 807. A map displaying the proposed Tintern ward of the proposed Community of Wye Valley is shown on page 144.

Penterry 808. In addition to the external community boundary changes outlined in paragraphs 238 (see Volume 1) and 783, and the internal ward boundary proposal outlined in paragraph 806 above, the existing Penterry ward is thereby dissolved.

Tintern Parva 809. See paragraph 806 above, for The Council’s proposal to combine the Chapel Hill and Tintern Parva wards to form the proposed Tintern ward of the Community of Tintern. 810. A map displaying the proposed Tintern ward of the proposed Community of Wye Valley is shown on page 144.

811. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Insert proposal map – 34.11 Cross Farm

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

812. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Tintern consist of two wards: Llandogo and Tintern. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 1,001 and be represented by seven community councillors.

813. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Tintern Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Chapel Hill 200 3 67 -22% - - - - Penterry 55 1 55 -36% - - - - Tintern Parva 360 3 120 40% - - - - Trellech 72 1 72 -16% - - - - Grange Llandogo - - - - 441 3 147 3% Tintern - - - - 560 4 140 -2% 687 8 86 1001 7 143

814. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

815. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

816. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Devauden • St Arvans • Trellech United

817. The proposed changes to the internal warding arrangements within the Community of Tintern have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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TRELLECH UNITED

818. The current community arrangements in Trellech United consist of seven wards: Catbrook, Llandogo, Llanishen, Penallt, The Narth, Trellech Town and Whitebrook. The community has a total electorate of 2,199 and is represented by 13 community councillors. The electorate per ward and number of councillors is as follows:

Community Ward Electorate Number of Councillors Catbrook 319 2 Llandogo 441 2 Llanishen 274 2 Penallt 414 2 The Narth 342 2 Trellech Town 327 2 Whitebrook 82 1

819. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the Community of Trellech United will decrease to 1,830.

Representations 820. The Council received several representations concerning the Community of Trellech United which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 821. A number of representations were received regarding the community arrangements in Trellech United.

822. A number of representations were received, including representations submitted by residents within the area, to propose that the Farhill area is moved to form part of Trellech Town ward rather than the Llanishen ward. Many of the residents use the facilities within Trellech Town rather than Llanishen and use Trellech Town for their main channels of communication rather than Llanishen.

823. Trellech Community Council submitted representations proposing the above amendment for the Far Hill area. In addition, the council proposed that the Trellech Grange ward of Tintern Community Council be moved under responsibility for Trellech United and merged with the Llanishen ward. The Council state that there are established links between Llanishen and Trellech Grange, the school catchment area for Trellech Grange is Trellech Primary School within Trellech United and that the Fountain Inn is the ‘local’ for residents within the Catbrook ward of Trellech United.

824. George Weston, Community Councillor for the Llanishen ward of Trellech United Community Council submitted a detailed proposal for new community arrangements within the Trellech United community. In summary he proposed to merge the Trellech Grange ward of Tintern Community Council with the Llanishen ward of Trellech United Community

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Council and provided a number of evidence-based reasons as to links between the two areas. The Councillor also gave a detailed proposal supporting the views of local residents in moving the Far Hill area in to the Trellech Town ward, from Llanishen. Further to this, a secondary representation was submitted in response to the representations submitted by a County Councillor.

825. County Councillor Ann Webb submitted representations strongly opposing the representations received regarding moving Trellech Grange ward of the Tintern Community in to the community of Trellech United.

Draft Representations 826. Representation was received from Trellech United Community Council in relation to the proposals and objected to the proposal to remove Llandogo from Trellech to Tintern and provided reasons for its links to the rest of Trellech/Monmouth. The Community Council also accepted there are some links between Llandogo and Tintern.

827. Representation was also submitted from the community councillors for the Llandogo ward opposing the move of Llandogo from Trellech to Tintern for similar reasons submitted by the Community Council.

828. Submissions were also made from residents objecting to the proposal regarding Llandogo.

829. Representation was received from Tintern Community Council noting that the current arrangements work well but they were happy with the transfer of Penterry to St Arvans and Llandogo to be included in its area. It also noted that it did not want to lose Trellech Grange to the community of Trellech given its historic links to Tintern Abbey.

830. Several representations were also received from residents objecting to the proposal to move Trellech Grange ward to the Community of Trellech based on its historic links to Tintern Abbey.

Community boundary proposals 831. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply two changes to the existing community boundary, involving proposals to transfer the areas between the Community of Trellech United and the following community: • Tintern (proposed to be named Wye Valley)

832. See paragraph 801 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one ward from the Community of Trellech United (Llandogo ward) into the proposed Community of Wye Valley. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 141.

833. See paragraph 802 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one ward from the Community of Tintern (Trellech Grange ward) into the Community of Trellech United. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 142.

834. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended. Page 149

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Community ward boundary proposals 835. Alongside the changes being proposed to the community boundary outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to apply one change to the existing internal ward boundaries of the Community of Trellech United. This proposal involves changes to the boundaries of the following wards: • Llanishen • Trellech Town

Llanishen 836. The Council proposed to transfer the area north of Penallt Brook from the Llanishen ward into the Trellech Town ward. This focuses upon the area of Farhill and affects 62 electors. 837. A map displaying the proposed Llanishen ward of the Community of Trellech United is shown on page 152.

Trellech Town 838. See paragraph 836 above, for The Council’s proposal to transfer one area from the Llanishen ward into the Trellech Town ward. 839. A map displaying the proposed Trellech Town ward of the Community of Trellech United is shown on page 154.

840. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

841. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the changes to the community and community wards within Trellech United consist of seven wards: Catbrook, Llanishen, Penallt, The Narth, Trellech Grange, Trellech Town and Whitebrook. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 1,830 and be represented by 13 community councillors.

842. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Trellech United Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by Monmouthshire County Council Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Catbrook 319 2 160 -6% 319 2 160 13% Llandogo 441 2 221 30% - - - - Llanishen 274 2 137 -19% 212 1 212 51% Penallt 414 2 207 22% 414 3 138 -2% The Narth 342 2 171 1% 342 2 171 21% Trellech Town 327 2 164 -3% 389 3 130 -8% Whitebrook 82 1 82 -52% 82 1 82 -42% Trellech - - - - 72 1 72 -49% Grange 2199 13 169 1830 13 141

843. The Commission considered the community council electoral arrangements proposed by The Council and proposed the following amendments to the Council’s proposal:

Trellech United Community Council Electoral Arrangements Existing Proposed by LDBCW Electors Electors Community Community Wards Electors per Variance Electors per Variance Councillors Councillors Councillor Councillor Catbrook 319 2 160 -6% 319 2 160 22% Llandogo 441 2 221 30% - - - - Llanishen 274 2 137 -19% 212 2 106 -19% Penallt 414 2 207 22% 414 3 138 6% The Narth 342 2 171 1% 342 2 171 31% Trellech Town 327 2 164 -3% 389 3 130 -1% Whitebrook 82 1 82 -52% 82 1 82 -37% Trellech - - - - 72 1 72 -45% Grange 2199 13 169 1830 14 131

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844. This proposal reduces the ranges in electoral representation within the town and, although it is a greater divergence from the council’s aim for an ideal ratio of 150 electors per councillor in this area, it does provide a more equal representation for proposed wards.

845. The Commission is satisfied that the Commission’s proposed changes are in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

846. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

847. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • St Arvans • Trellech United

848. The proposed changes to the internal warding arrangements within the Community of Trellech United have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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SKENFRITH (PROPOSED)

849. The Council have proposed to create a new Community named Skenfrith. 850. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to restructure the community boundaries and internal warding arrangements of the existing Communities of Llangattock Vibon Avel and Llantilio Crossenny to create two new communities in the area.

851. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the proposed Community of Skenfrith will be 520.

Representations 852. The Council received several representations concerning the Communities of Llangattock Vibon Avel and Llantilio Crossenny which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 853. Llantilio Crossenny Community Council submitted representation requesting the status quo is maintained as there are no issues or problems to report from within the community. The council consider the traditional boundaries and historic situation in the area work well and that any changes would be unlikely to bring any real benefit to the community.

854. Llangattock Vibon Avel Community Council submitted a detailed representation for the community area that it covers. The Community Council noted that the Llangattock-Vibon- Avel community is the second most deprived area in Wales with a resident of Cross Ash requiring a round trip of 18 miles for a loaf of bread. The Council highlighted that all community councillor information is available in the six local notice boards within the community and the Community Council has to be extremely careful with funds raised through precept as there are only 400 residences within the community. The Council submitted comments in justification of the requirement of ten councillors within the community.

Draft Representations 855. Llantilio Crossenny Community Council noted the following; a desire for the current arrangements to remain in place; the proposed Skenfrith community has a smaller electorate than the current arrangements; they wish to retain links to churches rather than castle ruins, and, they accept minor alterations to the external boundary.

856. Llangattock Vibon Avel Community Council noted the following: A desire for the current arrangements to remain in place; concerns at single member wards; questioning the purpose and need for the review; provides scenarios and actions taken by the Community Council as well, as justification for retaining Councillor numbers.

857. Counter proposals for some of the wards were also submitted by Councillor Desmond Pugh in relation to the Skenfrith, Rockfield, St Maughans and Llangattock Vibon Avel wards.

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Community boundary proposals 858. The County of Monmouthshire Council recommend that the proposed Community of Skenfrith is formed of areas from the following communities:

• Crucorney • Grosmont • Llangattock Vibon Avel • Llantilio Crossenny

859. See paragraph 294 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one ward from the Community of Grosmont (Llanvetherine ward) into the proposed Community of Skenfrith. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 165 of Volume 1.

860. Alongside the external community boundary change detailed in paragraph 294 (see Volume 1), see paragraph 214 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Crucorney (Llanvihangel Crucorney ward) into the proposed Community of Skenfrith (proposed Llanvetherine ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 128 of Volume 1.

861. The Council propose to transfer the area and properties along, and north of, the B4521 Old Ross Road, from the Community of Llantilio Crossenny (Llantilio Crossenny ward) into the proposed Community of Skenfrith (proposed Cross Ash ward). This proposal affects 106 electors. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 161.

862. The Council propose to transfer a large area, which forms the majority of the existing Skenfrith ward of the Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel, into the proposed Community of Skenfrith (proposed Cross Ash and Skenfrith wards). This does exclude three sections of land along the southern edge of the existing Skenfrith ward from the transfer. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 162.

863. The Council propose that the area of Lettrevane Farm be transferred from the existing Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel (Llangattock-Vibon-Avel ward) into the proposed Community of Skenfrith (proposed Cross Ash ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 163.

864. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals 865. In conjunction with the community areas being combined to form the proposed Community of Skenfrith, outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to form three wards within the Community. These proposals involve the formation of the following wards: • Cross Ash (proposed) • Llanvetherine (proposed) • Skenfrith (proposed)

Cross Ash (proposed) 866. Alongside the external community boundary changes outlined in paragraphs 861, 862 and 863 above, The Council proposed that the area west of Blackbrook Wood and Cherry Tree Wood, including Cherry Tree Farm (in the south) and Nant-Yr-Ych Farm (in the north) form part of the proposed Cross Ash ward. This proposal affects 161 electors. 867. A map displaying the proposed Cross Ash ward of the proposed Community of Skenfrith is shown on page 165.

Llanvetherine (proposed) 868. See paragraphs 214 and 294 (both Volume 1) above, for details of the external community boundary changes which form the proposed Llanvetherine ward of the Community. 869. A map displaying the proposed Llanvetherine ward of the proposed Community of Skenfrith is shown on page 167.

Skenfrith (proposed) 870. Alongside the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 862 above, The Council proposed that the area east of the proposed Cross Ash ward form the proposed Skenfrith ward. 871. A map displaying the proposed Skenfrith ward of the proposed Community of Skenfrith is shown on page 168.

872. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

873. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the creation of the proposed Community of Skenfrith consist of three wards: Cross Ash, Llanvetherine and Skenfrith. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 520 and be represented by seven community councillors.

874. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Proposed Skenfrith Community Council Electoral Arrangements Proposed Electors Community Wards Electors per Variance Councillors Councillor Cross Ash 267 3 89 20% Llanvetherine 121 2 61 -19% Skenfrith 132 2 66 -11% 520 7 74

875. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government, and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

876. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

877. The Commission recommend that the proposed Community of Skenfrith form part of the existing Llantilio Crossenny electoral ward.

878. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Crucorney • Llantilio Crossenny

879. The proposed changes to the internal warding arrangements within the proposed Community of Skenfrith have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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WHITECASTLE (PROPOSED)

880. The Council have proposed to create a new Community named Whitecastle. 881. The County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to restructure the community boundaries and internal warding arrangements of the existing Communities of Llangattock Vibon Avel and Llantilio Crossenny to create two new communities in the area.

882. As a result of these proposals the electorate within the proposed Community of Whitecastle will be 1,051.

Representations 883. The Council received several representations concerning the Communities of Llangattock Vibon Avel and Llantilio Crossenny which they have summarised and included within their final proposals report. This summary has been included below.

Initial Representations 884. Llantilio Crossenny submitted representation requesting the status quo is maintained as there are no issues or problems to report from within the community. The council consider the traditional boundaries and historic situation in the area work well and that any changes would be unlikely to bring any real benefit to the community.

885. Llangattock Vibon Avel Community Council submitted a detailed representation for the community area that it covers. The Community Council noted that the Llangattock-Vibon- Avel community is the second most deprived area in Wales with a resident of Cross Ash requiring a round trip of 18 miles for a loaf of bread. The Council highlighted that all community councillor information is available in the six local notice boards within the community and the Community Council has to be extremely careful with funds raised through precept as there are only 400 residences within community. The Council submitted comments in justification of the requirement of ten councillors within the community.

Draft Representations 886. Llantilio Crossenny Community Council noted the following; a desire for the current arrangements to remain in place; the proposed Skenfrith community has a smaller electorate than the current arrangements; they wish to retain links to churches rather than castle ruins, and, they accept minor alterations to the external boundary.

887. Llangattock Vibon Avel Community Council noted the following: A desire for the current arrangements to remain in place; concerns at single member wards; questioning the purpose and need for the review; provides scenarios and actions taken by the community council as well, as justification for retaining Councillor numbers.

888. Counter proposals for some of the wards were also submitted by Councillor Desmond Pugh in relation to the Skenfrith, Rockfield, St Maughans and Llangattock Vibon Avel wards.

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Community boundary proposals 889. The County of Monmouthshire Council recommend that the proposed Community of Whitecastle is formed of areas from the following communities:

• Llanarth • Llangattock Vibon Avel • Llantilio Crossenny • Mitchel Troy • Monmouth

890. See paragraph 338 (Volume 1) above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Llanarth (Bryngwyn ward) into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (proposed Penrhos ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 183 of Volume 1.

891. See paragraph 621 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Community of Mitchel Troy (Tregare ward) into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (proposed Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 80.

892. See paragraph 644 above, for The Council’s proposed transfer of one area from the Town of Monmouth (Drybridge ward) into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (proposed Rockfield & St Maughans ward). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 85.

893. Following the proposal outlined in paragraph 861 above, The Council propose the remainder of the existing Community of Llantilio Crossenny be transferred into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (proposed Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern, Penrhos and Whitecastle wards). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 174.

894. In association with the proposal outlined in paragraph 862 above, The Council propose to transfer three sections of land along the southern edge of the existing Skenfrith ward (Community of Llangettock Vibon Avel) into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (proposed Newcastle ward). This includes all properties, and the land, linked to the areas along the B4347 between the hamlets of Crossway and Newcastle, and includes the areas south of Coed-anghred Hill. This proposal affects approximately 20 properties. This proposal is displayed on the map on page 175.

895. Following the proposal outlined in paragraph 863 above, The Council propose that the remainder of the existing Llangattock Vibon Avel ward, of the Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel, be transferred into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (proposed Llangattock Vibon Avel, Newcastle, and, Rockfield & St Maughans wards). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 176.

896. The Council propose that the existing Rockfield and St Maughans ward of the Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel, be transferred into the proposed Community of Whitecastle (proposed Llangattock Vibon Avel, Newcastle, and, Rockfield & St Maughans wards). This proposal is displayed on the map on page 177.

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897. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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Community ward boundary proposals 898. In conjunction with the community areas being combined to form the proposed Community of Whitecastle, outlined in the previous section, the County of Monmouthshire Council’s recommendation is to form six wards within the Community. These proposals involve the formation of the following wards: • Llangattock Vibon Avel (proposed) • Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern (proposed) • Newcastle (proposed) • Penrhos (proposed) • Rockfield and St Maughans (proposed) • Whitecastle (proposed)

Llangattock Vibon Avel (proposed) 899. Alongside the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 895 above, The Council proposed that the area of Llangattock Vibon Avel, between the village of Newcastle (north) and The Hendre (south), form part of the proposed Llangattock Vibon Avel ward. 900. In addition to the proposal outlined in paragraph 899 above, The Council propose that a small area of land, to the west of Llangattock Great Wood, which incorporates the area of Round Wood also forms part of the proposed Llangattock Vibon Avel ward.

901. A map displaying the proposed Llangattock Vibon Avel ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle is shown on page 180.

Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern (proposed) 902. Alongside the external community boundary changes outlined in paragraphs 621 and 893 above, The Council proposed that the existing Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern ward of the community of Llantilio Crossenny, forms the proposed Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle. 903. A map displaying the proposed Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle is shown on page 181.

Newcastle (proposed) 904. Alongside the external community boundary changes outlined in paragraph 894, 895 and 896 above, The Council propose to incorporate the area of the existing Llangattock Vibon Avel ward (existing Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel) north of Nant Wood, Pen-y-lan Farm and the property named Kelda, within the proposed Newcastle ward of the Community. This includes the entire community ward area north of these areas, but does not include land associated with Carter’s Farm and Coxstone (east of the B4347). 905. The Council also proposed to include the area of the existing Rockfield and St Maughans ward (existing Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel) north of the stream which runs laterally to the south of Clappers Wood and Colebrook Wood, within the proposed Newcastle ward. This proposal affects approximately two properties.

906. A map displaying the proposed Newcastle ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle is shown on page 182.

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Penrhos (proposed) 907. Alongside the external community boundary changes outlined in paragraphs 338 (see Volume 1) and 893 above, The Council proposed that the existing Penrhos ward of the community of Llantilio Crossenny, forms the proposed Penrhos ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle. 908. A map displaying the proposed Penrhos ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle is shown on page 184.

Rockfield and St Maughans (proposed) 909. Alongside the external community boundary changes outlined in paragraphs 644, 895 and 896 above, The Council proposed to transfer the area south of, and including, properties along the B4233 road and the road leading north from Hendre, from the existing Llangattock Vibon Avel ward (Commuity of Llangattock Vibon Avel) into the proposed Rockfield and St Maughans ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle. This includes the entire community ward area south of these features. 910. The Council propose to transfer the area linked to Carter’s Farm and Coxstone (east of the B4347) from the existing Llangattock Vibon Avel ward (Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel) into the proposed Rockfield and St Maughans ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle. This removes the anomaly which split their land across two community wards.

911. Following the internal warding proposals outlined in paragraphs 900 and 905, The Council propose that the remainder of the existing Rockfield and St Maughans ward within the Community of Llangattock Vibon Avel, form the proposed Rockfield and St Maughans ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle.

912. A map displaying the proposed Rockfield and St Maughans ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle is shown on page 185.

Whitecastle (proposed) 913. Alongside the external community boundary change outlined in paragraph 893 above, The Council propose that the remainder of the existing Whitecastle ward within the Community of Llantilio Crossenny, form the proposed Whitecastle ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle.

914. A map displaying the proposed Whitecastle ward of the proposed Community of Whitecastle is shown on page 188.

915. The Commission received no objection to the final proposals and are satisfied that the proposed changes are desirable and in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

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CONSEQUENTIAL CHANGES

Community Council electoral arrangements

916. The recommended community electoral arrangements following the creation of the proposed Community of Whitecastle consist of six wards: Llangattock Vibon Avel, Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern, Newcastle, Penrhos, Rockfield and St Maughans, and, Whitecastle. The community is proposed to have a total electorate of 1,051 and be represented by 10 community councillors.

917. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to the community electoral arrangements that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council’s recommended electoral arrangements for the community council can be seen below:

Proposed Whitecastle Community Council Electoral Arrangements Proposed by Monmouthshire County Council Electors Community Wards Electors per Variance Councillors Councillor Llangattock 79 1 79 -25% Vibon Avel Llanvihangel- 77 1 77 -27% Ystern-Llewern Newcastle 151 2 76 -28% Penrhos 145 2 73 -31% Rockfield and St 343 2 172 63% Maughans Whitecastle 256 2 128 22%

1051 10 105

918. The Commission considered the community council electoral arrangements proposed by The Council and proposed the following amendments to the Council’s proposal:

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Proposed Whitecastle Community Council Electoral Arrangements Proposed by LDBCW Electors Community Wards Electors per Variance Councillors Councillor Llangattock 79 1 79 -17% Vibon Avel Llanvihangel- 77 1 77 -19% Ystern-Llewern Newcastle 151 2 76 -21% Penrhos 145 2 73 -24% Rockfield and St 343 3 114 20% Maughans Whitecastle 256 2 128 34%

1051 11 96

919. This proposal reduces the range in electoral representation within the community and although is a greater divergence from the ideal ratio proposed by The Council (150 electors per member in rural areas), this proposal provides an arrangement with greater equality and representation within the community.

920. The Commission is satisfied that the Commission’s proposed changes are in the interests of effective and convenient local government and are recommended.

Electoral ward arrangements

921. The Commission is required to consider the consequential changes to electoral wards that would occur following agreement of these proposals. The Council have not considered consequential changes to electoral wards within their final proposals.

922. The Commission recommend that the proposed Community of Whitecastle form part of the existing Llantilio Crossenny electoral ward.

923. As a consequence of the recommended changes to the community boundaries the Commission also recommend the same changes be applied to the existing electoral wards listed below (see Appendix 4 and Appendix 5 for further details): • Drybridge • Llanover (proposed to be named Gobion Fawr) • Llantilio Crossenny • Mitchel Troy

924. The proposed changes to the internal warding arrangements within the proposed Community of Whitecastle have no consequential effect upon electoral ward arrangements.

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Chapter 6. RESPONSES TO THIS REPORT 925. The Commission has now completed the Review of Community Arrangements in the County of Monmouthshire, and submitted recommendations to the Welsh Government. The Commission has completed its obligations and statutory duties under the Act. 926. It now falls to Welsh Ministers, if they see fit, to implement the Commission’s recommendations either with or without modifications. 927. Any representations concerning the matters in this report should be addressed to the Welsh Government. These should be submitted as soon as is possible and, in any event, not later than six weeks from the date that our recommendations are submitted to the Welsh Government. Representations should be sent to:

Local Government Democracy Team Democracy, Diversity and Remuneration Division Welsh Government Cathays Park Cardiff CF10 3NQ

Or emailed to:

[email protected]

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Chapter 7. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 928. The Commission wish to express our gratitude to the principal council, all the community councils and other interested bodies and persons who made representations to us for their assistance during the course of developing these draft proposals. The Commission commend the draft proposals contained within this report.

OWEN WATKIN OBE DL (Chair)

CERI STRADLING (Deputy Chair)

DAVID POWELL (Member)

JULIE MAY (Member)

THEODORE JOLOZA (Member)

SHEREEN WILLIAMS (Chief Executive)

January 2019

Page 193 APPENDIX 1

APPENDIX 1 – GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Commission The Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales.

Community (area) The unit of local government that lies below the level of the Principal Council.

Community Council An elected council that provides services to their particular community area. A Community Council may be divided for community electoral purposes into community wards.

Community review A review in which the Commission considers the community and community ward arrangements for a Principal Council.

Community / Town An area within a Community Council created for community electoral ward purposes.

Electoral wards The areas into which Principal Councils are divided for the purpose of electing county councillors, previously referred to as electoral divisions.

Electoral review A review in which the Commission considers the electoral arrangements for a Principal Council.

Electoral variance How far the number of electors per councillor in a ward varies from the county average; expressed as a percentage.

Electorate The number of persons registered to vote in a local government area.

Interested party Person or body who has an interest in the outcome of a review, such as a community council, local MP or AM or political party.

Order Order made by an implementing body, giving effect to proposals made by the Principal Council or the Commission.

Over-representation Where there are fewer electors per councillor in a ward compared to the county average.

Principal area The area governed by a Principal Council: In Wales, a county or county borough.

Principal Council The single tier organ of local government, responsible for all or almost all local government functions within its area. A county or county borough council. APPENDIX 1

Split Community A Community which is divided between two, or more, Electoral wards

The Act The Local Government Act 1972

Town Council A Community Council with the status of a town are known as Town Councils. A Town Council may be divided for community electoral purposes into wards.

Under- Where there are more electors per councillor in a ward compared to the representation county average. Monmouthshire County Council EXISTING COMMUNITY ARRANGEMENTS APPENDIX 2

No. of Electors per EpC No. of Electors No. of Electors No. Community Ward Councillors Councillor Variance Community per Community for ward for ward (EpC) average Cantref 1695 3 565 6% Castle 1607 3 536 1% 1 Abergavenny 7990 Grofield 1413 3 471 -12% 533 Lansdown 1721 3 574 8% Priory 1554 3 518 -3% Caerwent 599 4 150 -1% Crick 166 1 166 10% 2 Caerwent 1510 Dinham 262 1 262 74% 151 Llanvair Discoed 252 2 126 -17% St Brides Netherwent 231 2 116 -24% Caldicot Castle 1676 3 559 23% Dewstow 1517 4 379 -16% 3 Caldicot 7704 Green Lane 1539 4 385 -15% 453 Severn 1385 3 462 2% West End 1587 3 529 17% Larkfield 1581 3 527 -16% St Christophers 1892 3 631 0% 4 Chepstow 9430 St Kingsmark 2336 3 779 24% 629 St Mary's 1522 3 507 -19% Thornwell 2099 3 700 11% Bwlch Trewyn & Old Castle 51 1 51 -46% Forest & Ffwddog 119 2 60 -38% 5 Crucorney 1048 Llanvihangel Crucorney 731 6 122 28% 95 Lower Cwmyoy 86 1 86 -10% Upper Cwmyoy 61 1 61 -36% Devauden 409 3 136 28% Itton 196 2 98 -8% 6 Devauden 852 107 Kilgrwwg 104 2 52 -51% Llanvihangel Wolvesnewton 143 1 143 34% Goetre 1309 9 145 -8% 7 Goetre Fawr 1889 157 Mamhilad 580 3 193 23% Grosmont 420 5 84 12% Llangattock Lingoed 89 1 89 19% 8 Grosmont 673 75 Llangua 43 1 43 -42% Llanvetherine 121 2 61 -19% Gwehelog & Llancayo 265 4 66 21% 9 Gwehelog Fawr 384 Kemeys Commander 34 1 34 -38% 55 Trostre 85 2 43 -23% Bryngwyn 209 3 70 2% Clytha 220 3 73 7% 10 Llanarth 684 68 Llanarth 145 2 73 6% Llanvapley 110 2 55 -20% Glascoed 221 3 74 10% 11 Llanbadoc 671 Llanbadoc 205 4 51 -24% 67 Monkswood 245 3 82 22% Clydach 549 2 275 18% 12 Llanelly 3261 Darrenfelin 502 2 251 8% 233 Gilwern 2210 10 221 -5% Llanellen 411 2 206 -9% Llanfoist 1026 3 342 51% 13 Llanfoist Fawr 2716 226 Llanwenarth Citra 139 1 139 -39% Llanwenarth Ultra 1140 6 190 -16% Llangattock Vibon Avel 296 3 99 16% Llangattock 14 850 Rockfield & St Maughans 240 3 80 -6% 85 Vibon Avel Skenfrith 314 4 79 -8% Llangwm 224 5 45 -12% 15 Llangwm 355 51 Llansoy 131 2 66 29% Coed-Y-Paen 116 2 58 -29% 16 Llangybi 740 Llandegfedd 153 2 77 -7% 82 Llangybi 471 5 94 15% Llangattock Nigh Caerleon 96 2 48 -7% 17 Llanhennock 413 Llanhennock 162 3 54 5% 52 Tredunnock 155 3 52 0% Llanddewi Rhydderch 321 3 107 14% Llanfair Cilgydyn 179 2 90 -5% 18 Llanover 1128 94 Llangattock-Nigh-Usk 387 4 97 3% Llanover 241 3 80 -15% Llantilio Crossenny 362 6 60 -6% Llantilio 19 580 Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern 71 1 71 10% 64 Crossenny Penrhos 147 2 74 14% Monmouthshire County Council EXISTING COMMUNITY ARRANGEMENTS APPENDIX 2

No. of Electors per EpC No. of Electors No. of Electors No. Community Ward Councillors Councillor Variance Community per Community for ward for ward (EpC) average Croesonen East 556 2 278 17% Croesonen West 1131 5 226 -5% Llantilio Mardy 874 3 291 22% 20 3098 238 Pertholey Pantygelli 85 1 85 -64% Sgyridd East 180 1 180 -24% Sgyridd West 272 1 272 14% Gwernesney 116 3 39 -18% 21 Llantrisant Fawr 329 47 Llantrisant 213 4 53 13% Denny 143 1 143 -60% Magor With Mill 1331 4 333 -7% 22 4676 360 Undy Salisbury 734 2 367 2% The Elms 2468 6 411 14% Mathern 471 5 94 -3% 23 Mathern 874 Mounton 77 1 77 -21% 97 Pwllmeyric 326 3 109 12% Cwmcarvan 162 2 81 -18% Dingestow 234 2 117 18% 24 Mitchel Troy 993 Mitchel Troy 341 3 114 14% 99 Tregare 179 2 90 -10% Wonastow 77 1 77 -22% Dixton with Osbaston 1902 4 476 -5% Drybridge 2051 3 684 37% 25 Monmouth 7994 Overmonnow 1774 4 444 -11% 500 Town 588 1 588 18% Wyesham 1679 4 420 -16% Leechpool 168 1 168 -5% 26 Portskewett 1765 Portskewett Village 1308 7 187 6% 177 Sudbrook 289 2 145 -18% Llandenny 366 2 183 27% 27 Raglan 1585 Pen-y-Clawdd 99 1 99 -31% 144 Raglan 1120 8 140 -3% 28 Rogiet 1349 n/a 1349 11 123 0% 123 Earlswood 143 2 72 -22% Mynyddbach 217 2 109 19% 29 Shirenewton 915 92 Newchurch 91 1 91 -1% Shirenewton 464 5 93 1% 30 St Arvans 626 n/a 626 8 78 0% 78 Chapel Hill 200 3 67 -22% Penterry 55 1 55 -36% 31 Tintern 687 86 Tintern Parva 360 3 120 40% Trellech Grange 72 1 72 -16% Catbrook 319 2 160 -6% Llandogo 441 2 221 30% Llanishen 274 2 137 -19% 32 Trellech United 2199 Penallt 414 2 207 22% 169 The Narth 342 2 171 1% Trellech Town 327 2 164 -3% Whitebrook 82 1 82 -52% 33 Usk 1957 n/a 1957 12 163 0% 163 71925 71925 356 202

Electoral statistics provided by Monmouthshire County Council Monmouthshire County Council PROPOSED COMMUNITY ARRANGEMENTS APPENDIX 3

No. of Electors per EpC No. of Electors No. of Electors No. Community Ward Councillors Councillor Variance Community per Community per ward per ward (EpC) average Cantref 1578 3 526 7% Grofield 1861 4 465 -6% Lansdown 1747 3 582 18% 1 Abergavenny 8385 493 Llanwenarth Citra 139 1 139 -72% Park 1528 3 509 3% Pen Y Fal 1532 3 511 4% Caerwent 617 3 206 -8% Crick 192 1 192 -14% 2 Caerwent 1569 Dinham 270 1 270 20% 224 Llanvair Discoed 211 1 211 -6% St Brides Netherwent 279 1 279 24% Caldicot Castle 1236 3 412 -14% Caldicot Cross 1639 3 546 13% Dewstow 1545 3 515 7% 3 Caldicot 7704 482 Severn 742 2 371 -23% The Village 1082 2 541 12% West End 1460 3 487 1% Bulwark 1902 4 476 -4% Chepstow Castle 1306 3 435 -13% Larkfield 1095 2 548 10% 4 Chepstow 9460 Maple Avenue 609 1 609 22% 498 Mount Pleasant 1571 3 524 5% St Kingsmark 1541 3 514 3% Thornwell 1436 3 479 -4% Bwlch Trewyn and Old Castle 51 1 51 -66% Cwmyoy 147 1 147 -1% 5 Crucorney 1042 Forest and Ffwddog 119 1 119 -20% 149 Llanvihangel Crucorney 363 2 182 22% Pandy 362 2 181 22% Devauden 445 3 148 16% Kilgrwwg 104 1 104 -19% 6 Devauden 896 128 Itton 240 2 120 -6% Llanvihangel Tor-Y-Mynydd 107 1 107 -16% Llanddewi Rhydderch 331 2 166 16% Llanfair Cilgydyn 176 1 176 24% 7 Gobion Fawr 997 142 Llangattock-Nigh-Usk 380 3 127 -11% Llanvapley 110 1 110 -23% Goetre Wharf 331 2 166 -23% Goytre 994 4 249 16% 8 Goetre Fawr 1713 214 Llanover 241 1 241 13% Nant-Y-Derry 147 1 147 -31% Grosmont 463 6 77 -2% 9 Grosmont 552 79 Llangattock Lingoed 89 1 89 13% Bryngwyn 206 2 103 14% Clytha 123 1 123 36% 10 Llanarth 722 90 Kemeys Commander and Llancayo 161 2 81 -11% Llanarth 232 3 77 -14% Glascoed 221 2 111 -8% Little Mill 414 3 138 14% 11 Llanbadoc 1085 121 Llanbadoc 205 2 103 -15% Monkswood 245 2 123 2% Clydach 452 2 226 -10% 12 Llanelly 3261 Darrenfelin 502 2 251 0% 251 Gilwern 2307 9 256 2% Govilon 1140 6 190 -4% 13 Llanfoist Fawr 2584 Llanellen 418 2 209 5% 199 Llanfoist 1026 5 205 3% Coed-Y-Paen 116 1 116 -20% Llandegfedd 153 1 153 6% Llangattock Nigh Caerleon 96 1 96 -33% 14 Llangybi 1153 144 Llangybi 471 3 157 9% Llanhennock 162 1 162 12% Tredunnock 155 1 155 8% Croesonen 1614 6 269 15% Llantilio Mardy 779 3 260 11% 15 2806 234 Pertholey Pantygelli 85 1 85 -64% Sgyrrid 328 2 164 -30% Gwernesney 116 1 116 36% Llangwm 224 3 75 -13% 16 Llantrisant Fawr 684 86 Llansoy 131 1 131 53% Llantrisant 213 3 71 -17% Monmouthshire County Council PROPOSED COMMUNITY ARRANGEMENTS APPENDIX 3

No. of Electors per EpC No. of Electors No. of Electors No. Community Ward Councillors Councillor Variance Community per Community per ward per ward (EpC) average Magor East 1802 4 451 -2% Magor with 17 4598 Magor West 1526 3 509 11% 460 Undy Undy 1270 3 423 -8% Mathern 456 3 152 24% 18 Mathern 859 Mounton 77 1 77 -37% 123 Pwllmeyric 326 3 109 -11% Cwmcarvan 162 1 162 29% Dingestow 234 2 117 -7% Mitchel Troy 336 2 168 34% 19 Mitchel Troy 1131 126 Pen-y-Clawdd 99 1 99 -21% Tregare 223 2 112 -11% Wonastow 77 1 77 -39% Drybridge 1721 4 430 5% Osbaston 1684 4 421 2% 20 Monmouth 7822 Overmonnow 1062 3 354 -14% 412 Town 1676 4 419 2% Wyesham 1679 4 420 2% Leechpool 163 1 163 -7% 21 Portskewett 1760 Portskewett Village 1308 7 187 6% 176 Sudbrook 289 2 145 -18% Gwehelog 223 1 223 21% Kingcoed 146 1 146 -21% 22 Raglan 1659 184 Llandenny 220 1 220 19% Raglan 1070 6 178 -3% 23 Rogiet 1370 1370 7 196 0% 196 Earlswood and Newchurch 289 2 145 13% 24 Shirenewton 899 128 Shirenewton and Mynyddbach 610 5 122 -5% Cross Ash 267 3 89 20% 25 Skenfrith 520 Llanvetherine 121 2 61 -19% 74 Skenfrith 132 2 66 -11% 26 St Arvans 596 596 7 85 0% 85 Catbrook 319 2 160 22% Llanishen 212 2 106 -19% Penallt 414 3 138 6% 27 Trellech United 1830 The Narth 342 2 171 31% 131 Trellech Grange 72 1 72 -45% Trellech Town 389 3 130 -1% Whitebrook 82 1 82 -37% 28 Usk 1957 1957 7 280 0% 280 Llangattock Vibon Avel 79 1 79 -17% Llanvihangel-Ystern-Llewern 77 1 77 -19% Newcastle 151 2 76 -21% 29 Whitecastle 1051 96 Penrhos 145 2 73 -24% Rockfield and St Maughans 343 3 114 20% Whitecastle 256 2 128 34% Llandogo 441 3 147 3% 30 Wye Valley 1001 143 Tintern 560 4 140 -2% 71666 71666 279 257

Electoral statistics provided by Monmouthshire County Council Monmouthshire County Council EXISTING COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP APPENDIX 4

% variance No. OF No. NAME DESCRIPTION ELECTORATE RATIO from County COUNCILLORS average

1 Caerwent The Community of Caerwent 1 1,510 1,510 -10%

2 Caldicot Castle The Caldicot Castle ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,676 1,676 0%

3 Cantref The Cantref ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,695 1,695 1%

4 Castle The Castle ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,607 1,607 -4%

5 Croesonen The Croesonen East and Croesonen West wards of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey 1 1,687 1,687 1%

6 Crucorney The Communities of Crucorney and Grosmont 1 1,721 1,721 3%

7 Devauden The Communities of Devauden and Llangwm 1 1,207 1,207 -28%

8 Dewstow The Dewstow ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,517 1,517 -9%

9 Dixton with Osbaston The Dixton with Osbaston ward of the Town of Monmouth 1 1,902 1,902 14%

10 Drybridge The Drybridge and Town wards of the Town of Monmouth 1 2,639 2,639 58%

11 Goetre Fawr The Community of Goetre Fawr 1 1,889 1,889 13%

12 Green Lane The Green Lane ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,539 1,539 -8%

13 Grofield The Grofield ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,413 1,413 -16%

14 Lansdown The Lansdown ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,721 1,721 3%

15 Larkfield The Larkfield ward of the Town of Chepstow 1 1,581 1,581 -5%

16 Llanbadoc The Communities of Gwehelog and Llanbadoc 1 1,055 1,055 -37%

17 Llanelly Hill The Community of Llanelly 2 3,261 1,631 -3%

The Llanellen, Llanfoist and Llanwenarth Citra (Llanfoist Fawr (DET)) wards of the Community of 18 Llanfoist Fawr 1 1,576 1,576 -6% Llanfoist Fawr

19 Llangybi Fawr The Communities of Llangybi, Llanhennock and Llantrisant Fawr 1 1,482 1,482 -11%

20 Llanover The Communities of Llanarth and Llanover 1 1,812 1,812 8%

21 Llantilio Crossenny The Communities of Llangattock Vibon Avel and Llantilio Crossenny 1 1,430 1,430 -15%

22 Llanwenarth Ultra The Llanwenarth Ultra ward of the Community of Llanfoist Fawr 1 1,140 1,140 -32%

The Mardy, Pantygelli, Sgyrrid East and Sgyrrid West wards of the Community of Llantilio 23 Mardy 1 1,411 1,411 -16% Pertholey

24 Mill The Denny, Mill and Salisbury wards of the Community of Magor with Undy 1 2,208 2,208 32%

25 Mitchel Troy The Community of Mitchel Troy 1 993 993 -41%

26 Overmonnow The Overmonnow ward of the Town of Monmouth 1 1,774 1,774 6%

27 Portskewett The Community of Portskewett 1 1,765 1,765 6%

28 Priory The Priory ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,554 1,554 -7%

29 Raglan The Community of Raglan 1 1,585 1,585 -5%

30 Rogiet The Community of Rogiet 1 1,349 1,349 -19%

31 Severn The Severn ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,385 1,385 -17%

32 Shirenewton The Communities of Mathern and Shirenewton 1 1,789 1,789 7%

33 St Arvans The Communities of St Arvans and Tintern 1 1,313 1,313 -22%

34 St Christophers The St Christophers ward of the Town of Chepstow 1 1,892 1,892 13%

35 St Kingsmark The St Kingsmark ward of the Town of Chepstow 1 2,336 2,336 40%

36 St Mary's The St Mary's ward of the Town of Chepstow 1 1,522 1,522 -9%

37 The Elms The ward of The Elms of the Community of Magor with Undy 1 2,468 2,468 48%

38 Thornwell The Thornwell ward of the Town of Chepstow 1 2,099 2,099 25%

39 Trellech United The Community of Trellech United 1 2,199 2,199 31%

40 Usk The Community of Usk 1 1,957 1,957 17% Monmouthshire County Council EXISTING COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP APPENDIX 4

% variance No. OF No. NAME DESCRIPTION ELECTORATE RATIO from County COUNCILLORS average

41 West End The West End ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,587 1,587 -5%

42 Wyesham The Wyesham ward of the Town of Monmouth 1 1,679 1,679 0%

TOTAL: 43 71,925 1,673 Ratio is the number of electors per councillor Electoral figures supplied by Monmouthshire County Council Monmouthshire County Council PROPOSED COUNCIL MEMBERSHIP APPENDIX 5

% variance No. OF No. NAME DESCRIPTION ELECTORATE RATIO from County COUNCILLORS average

1 Bulwark and Thornwell The proposed Bulwark, Maple Avenue and Thornwell wards of the Town of Chepstow 2 3,947 1,974 24%

2 Caerwent The proposed Community of Caerwent 1 1,569 1,569 -1%

3 Caldicot Castle The proposed Caldicot Castle ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,236 1,236 -22%

4 Caldicot Cross The proposed Caldicot Cross ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,639 1,639 3%

5 Cantref The proposed Cantref and Llanwenarth Citra wards of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,717 1,717 8%

6 Chepstow Castle The proposed Chepstow Castle ward of the Town of Chepstow 1 1,306 1,306 -18%

7 Croesonen The proposed Croesonen ward of the Community of Llantilio Pertholey 1 1,614 1,614 1%

8 Crucorney The proposed Communities of Crucorney and Grosmont 1 1,594 1,594 0%

The proposed Community of Devauden and the Llangwm and Llansoy wards of the proposed 9 Devauden 1 1,251 1,251 -21% Community of Llantrisant Fawr

10 Dewstow The proposed Dewstow ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,545 1,545 -3%

11 Drybridge The proposed Drybridge and Town wards of the Town of Monmouth 2 3,397 1,699 7%

12 Gobion Fawr The proposed Communities of Gobion Fawr and Llanarth 1 1,719 1,719 8%

13 Goetre Fawr The proposed Community of Goetre Fawr 1 1,713 1,713 8%

14 Govilon The proposed Govilon ward of the Community of Llanfoist Fawr 1 1,140 1,140 -28%

15 Grofield The proposed Grofield ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,861 1,861 17%

16 Lansdown The proposed Lansdown ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,747 1,747 10%

17 Larkfield and St Kingsmark The proposed Larkfield, Mount Pleasant and St Kingsmark wards of the Town of Chepstow 2 4,207 2,104 32%

18 Llanbadoc The proposed Community of Llanbadoc 1 1,085 1,085 -32%

19 Llanelly The Community of Llanelly 2 3,261 1,631 2%

20 Llanfoist Fawr The Llanellen and Llanfoist wards of the Community of Llanfoist Fawr 1 1,444 1,444 -9%

The proposed Community of Llangybi and the Gwenesney and Llantrisant wards of the proposed 21 Llangybi Fawr 1 1,482 1,482 -7% Community of Llantrisant Fawr

22 Llantilio Crossenny The proposed Communities of Skenfrith and Whitecastle 1 1,571 1,571 -1%

23 Magor East The proposed Magor East and Undy wards of the Community of Magor with Undy 2 3,072 1,536 -4%

24 Magor West The proposed Magor West ward of the Community of Magor with Undy 1 1,526 1,526 -4%

The proposed Mardy and Sgyrrid wards, and the Panygelli ward of the Community of 25 Mardy 1 1,192 1,192 -25% Llantilio Pertholey

26 Mitchel Troy The proposed Community of Mitchel Troy 1 1,131 1,131 -29%

27 Osbaston The proposed Osbaston ward of the Town of Monmouth 1 1,684 1,684 6%

28 Overmonnow The proposed Overmonnow ward of the Town of Monmouth 1 1,062 1,062 -33%

29 Park The proposed Park ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,528 1,528 -4%

30 Pen Y Fal The proposed Pen Y Fal ward of the Town of Abergavenny 1 1,532 1,532 -4%

31 Portskewett The proposed Community of Portskewett 1 1,760 1,760 11%

32 Raglan The proposed Community of Raglan 1 1,659 1,659 4%

33 Rogiet The proposed Community of Rogiet 1 1,370 1,370 -14%

34 Severn The proposed Severn and The Village wards of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,824 1,824 15%

35 Shirenewton The proposed Communities of Mathern and Shirenewton 1 1,758 1,758 10%

36 St Arvans The proposed Communities of St Arvans and Wye Valley 1 1,597 1,597 0%

37 Trellech United The proposed Community of Trellech United 1 1,830 1,830 15%

38 Usk The Community of Usk 1 1,957 1,957 23%

39 West End The proposed West End ward of the Town of Caldicot 1 1,460 1,460 -8%

40 Wyesham The Wyesham ward of the Town of Monmouth 1 1,679 1,679 5%

TOTAL: 45 71,666 1,593 Ratio is the number of electors per councillor Electoral figures supplied by Monmouthshire County Council

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