They’re going green! Illustrating the dedication of Vale schools to reducing their environmental foot- print, an outstanding 50 per cent have now won an award under the Eco-Schools Green Flag award scheme. See page 2 ValeWaveswww.valeofglamorgan.gov.ukes The Vale of Council’s Community Newspaper Spring 2008 | Issue 19 New contact centre NewsStories ready for all calls residents’ enquiries more cost effective way forward quickly and efficiently. The for both customers and the contact centre will make it council,” he added. as easy as possible for Vale The 40 call handlers at the residents to request a service, centre include eight Welsh report a problem and have speakers. Callers can opt to their enquiry dealt with.” have their inquiry dealt with Council chief executive in Welsh. Michaela O'Neill, from , John Maitland Evans Currently the contact cen- scooped top prize in the Vale explained: “The difference tre is open from 8am to Youth Service Awards. See page 3. between the contact centre 6pm Monday to Friday and and the old system, where there are plans to extend enquiries came through to the opening hours until the council’s switchboard, is 8pm. It is intended to that the bulk of queries will be dealt with by the contact extend this to a 24/7 service centre staff themselves. as the service expands. Call esidents in the Vale From 17 March the coun- handlers find that their of Glamorgan now cil’s new contact centre, They will also be able to handle multiple enquiries, so busiest times are 8.30am to Ronly have to Contact OneVale, will han- 12pm, with Monday the if a caller has two separate remember one phone dle enquiries for services queries they won’t have to most popular day for callers. number – 01446 700111 across the council. call another department." Contact OneVale is avail- – for all council services, Leader of the council “We have decided to able on 01446 700111, which is easy to remem- Margaret Alexander said: retain our existing number email C1V@valeofglamor- ber and already used by “We have opened a contact as the easiest option for our gan.gov.uk or text C1V then many residents. centre to help us deal with customers and as the most your message to 60066. Conserving the heritage of the Vale's beautiful coastline is the Do it online at Easter job of a special team based at Dunraven Bay, Southerndown. www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk opening hours See page 5.

Report it: abandoned vehicles, benefit and adoption, school term times, kerb- Leisure centres fraud, complaints about food that was side recycling days, public transport Good Friday, Saturday (22 March), Housing bought or made in the Vale, problems times, doctors, dentists, leisure centre Sunday (23 March), Tuesday (25 allowance March) and Wednesday (26 March) – with street lighting, fly tipping and man- timetables. If you are a landlord or a tenant of open as normal; Easter Monday open hole covers. Say it: have your say on issues that private rented accommodation, 7am-5pm. Pay it: business rates, council tax, hous- affect you, see the consultation work then the Local Housing Allowance, ing rents and mortgages that is currently in progress, as well as Libraries to be introduced in April, could Find it: childcare services, community information on past projects. Or use our Good Friday, Sunday (23 March), Easter affect you. It is a new way of Monday and Tuesday (25 March) closed; centres, planning applications, courses, online form for comments, complaints working out Housing Benefits and Saturday (22 March) and Wednesday library books, information on fostering and compliments. will simplify the whole process of (26 March) – open as normal. claiming. See page 6 Please ensure you recycle your copy of Vale Waves 2 ValeNews

ValeWaves Spring 2008 | Issue 19 www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk Newsinbrief Conserving our wildlife Great products The has ntries are being invit- The overall winners in 2007 been granted Fairtrade ed for this year's Vale were Wick and District county status. Eof Glamorgan Playgroup and Dow Corning – A range of catering and Biodiversity Awards. Now both sites that are making a retail units now sell in its fourth year, the positive contribution to local Fairtrade items ranging from award rewards practical conservation and are working tea, coffee and snack prod- projects that promote bio- hard to raise the profile of our ucts to more unique items diversity by creating, wildlife. such as jewellery and casual enhancing or managing Work on the wildlife and clothing. sites for wildlife. learning garden at Wick began Fairtrade products are There are two classes for in 2005 in a corner of the available in , schools, education centres or local churchyard, and the ded- Barry, and Llantwit children’s groups and for vol- ication and hard work has cre- Major, while untary groups or industrial or ated an outstanding area that Barry College commercial businesses, includ- benefits local wildlife, the chil- and Vale ing farms. Class winners each dren and their community. Council for receive £100 and a wooden Dow Corning's Cadoxton Voluntary trophy, with prizes of £50 and Pond project is a perfect Services have £20 for second and third example of how sustainability committed to places. and biodiversity can go hand using Fairtrade Throughout there are in hand with industry. products. many threatened species that Extensive reed beds and two There are everyone’s heard of such as lakes support a wide range of plans to create dormice, nightjar, lesser horse- flora and fauna including a dedicated directory on the shoe bats and otter. But kingfisher and reed bunting. council's website www.vale- what’s just as important is the Applications for this year's ofglamorgan.gov.uk, and conservation of all our other award must be received by cabinet member for visible wildlife from slugs to slow- Friday, 2 May. services Cllr Rob Curtis said: worms and blackbirds to bum- If you help to manage a site “Vale retailers and catering ble bees. for wildlife in the Vale or outlets have really taken Local wildlife areas such as know someone that does, Fairtrade on board and are those on schools grounds, contact the Vale of Glamorgan Wick and District Playgroup and Dow Corning were winners of 2007 Vale offering great products. I Biodiversity Awards am really pleased that resi- farmland or industrial sites can Biodiversity Partnership, c/o dents and businesses in the be managed for these plants Richard May – 01446 ofglamorgan.gov.uk) or visit and search for ‘biodiversity Vale are so supportive." and animals. 704855; email rimay@vale- www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk award.’

Loo-King good! Going Green - schools reach the big 50 The council’s King Square n outstanding 50 award scheme. Vale. waste awareness campaign. (Barry) and Cowbridge Town Hall loos have won national per cent of Vale Illustrating the dedication of Thirty-one schools have infants is cur- awards. A schools have now schools to reducing their envi- either a bronze, silver or pres- rently one of the schools with tigious Green Flag award and, a silver award who are dili- There were nearly 1,500 attained an award under ronmental footprint, this is an entries to this year’s British to have achieved this, they gently working towards the Eco-Schools Green Flag impressive landmark for the Toilet Association awards will have set up an eco-com- achieving Green Flag status. and King Square and mittee, led by pupils, complet- Pupils at the school have been Cowbridge were independ- ed a review of what the composting, eating more fruit ently assessed as being wor- school currently does to be and reducing energy con- thy recipients of four and more sustainable and decided sumption. All are looking for- three stars respectively. on some improvement actions. ward to flying the green flag. Cleansing staff at Barry were There are eight topics The challenge now is to also awarded an 'Attendant schools can tackle under the reach that 100 per cent mark! of the Year’ certificate. scheme, covering sustainable There are only eight schools Cabinet member for visi- not yet registered on the pro- ble and building services Cllr development and global citi- Rob Curtis said: “The coun- zenship. One of the most pop- gramme so, hopefully, it won’t cil is fully aware that resi- ular topics is waste minimiza- take too long to be a truly dents and visitors need high tion, which encourages pupils eco-friendly county. standard loos and these to reduce, reuse and recycle. Eco-Schools is an interna- awards clearly show we are Support for the schools’ tional programme managed by moving in the right direction Dinas Powys infants celebrate their silver award. Back row, from left: efforts in this key green area Keep Wales Tidy in Wales and in raising standards." Teacher Caroline Lewis, Eco-Schools development officer Julie Giles and comes from the council as part is supported by the Welsh learning support assistant Angela Peterken. Front: Eco committee children Lydia, Cyril, Delyth and Emma. of the ‘What’s in your bin?’ Assembly. Top images: and St Hillary. ValeNews 3 www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk ValeWaves Spring 2008 | Issue 19 Michaela wins Newsinbrief Less paper - better Vale’s top service The council plans to cut the amount of paper it uses by computerising as much of its youth award paperwork as possible. New computer software is being owbridge ising a redesign of the ladies’ introduced that will centrally Comprehensive pupil toilets and helping to paint manage information, including CMichaela O’Neill from them. correspondence, documents Rhoose scooped top prize The awards, organised by and emails. The system will in the Vale Youth Service the council's youth service, are allow information to be shared Awards. now in their sixth year. Youth by council departments and Seventeen-year-old workers from across the Vale will help to make sure informa- Michaela’s enthusiasm for nominated more than 270 tion held by the council is youth work particularly youngsters for this year’s • Visual arts – youngsters education programme. accurate. impressed the judges. Not awards. from Llantwit Major YC who • Citizenship and participa- Head of performance and only has she been an active Council leader Margaret designed and made a wall tion – Major Music who have development Huw Isaac member of the popular Alexander said: “The awards mosaic. given their time to work with explained: "The new system Cowbridge youth centre, she show the enormous amount • Performing arts– Band ‘We Minor Music, helping eight to will make savings and make has also encouraged other of talent and potential in the invented Voodoo’ who are 11 year olds develop their the council's work more effi- young people to get involved. Vale’s young people. All the based at Cowbridge YC. music skills. cient. It will make life easier for Michaela completed her youngsters nominated can • Environment – YC. • Global/international – Karl residents too - meaning they work experience at the youth take pride in their achieve- • Sports – Wick, who have Harding and Gavin Packer, will only have to provide infor- centre and was involved in ments, they are a credit to been involved in local and from the Byrd Crescent youth mation, such as change of producing a film for the Open themselves and their families, national competitions. group in Penarth, who have address, once and all the coun- University youth work course. their youth workers and the • Education – Dinas Powys taken part in a cultural cil's records will be updated. She has certainly been hands Vale.” YC for their commitment to exchange, 'Belongings,' with This is a secure system and on at the centre, even organ- Other winners were: the Romance Academy sex young people from Africa. safeguards are in place to keep information private. The sys- tem is based within the council Wide range of options with TeleV and will only be accessed by authorised council staff." n advanced safety smoke detectors, which imme- available for anyone of any If you have any questions on alarm system offer- diately alert a contact centre, age who would like to feel the new system, please email A ing peace of mind and an extreme temperature safer, more protected and Amanda Pocknell at ajpock- and reassurance whenever detector. independent in their own [email protected] it's needed is being promot- Alongside the council's exist- home. It offers a wide range ed by the council. Designed ing community alarm system, of options to help manage Meetings to work with existing TeleV is a 24-hour service pro- risks in the home environment All members of the public are Lifeline home units and in viding an instant response at and, most importantly, to try invited to attend meetings of sheltered housing settings, the touch of a button. and help people maintain their the council which start at 6pm TeleV aims to help elderly Says one TeleV user: "Thank independence. in the Civic Offices unless oth- and vulnerable people you for giving me and my "TeleV will help more and erwise stated: remain in their own homes family peace of mind knowing more people and, hopefully, • Cabinet (2pm) - 2, 16 and 23 April and 9 and 23 May. and live independently for there is always help available help avoid admission into care • Council -23 April and 16 as long as possible. at the press of a button." or hospital." May (annual). The TeleV package consists Council leader Cllr Margaret If you are interested in TeleV, please telephone 01446 • Planning - 17 April, 24 May of a Lifeline control unit, two Alexander said: "The service is receiving more information on 731100. and 14 June. • Voluntary Sector Joint Liaison - 29 April and 10 July. Special bins to recycle Tetra Pak cartons • Community Liaison (7pm) - 30 May and 18 July. ood and drink cartons can now tons will be taken away to be baled before • Licensing (10am) - 8 May. be recycled at five sites in the being transported to a recycling mill. Scrutiny meetings start at 6pm FVale of Glamorgan. Thanks to a Residents are reminded that Tetra Pak and are generally held at the scheme run in conjunction with Tetra cartons cannot be collected as part of the Civic Offices: Pak Ltd and the carton industry body council's kerbside scheme. As they need to • Lifelong Learning - 31 ACE UK (Alliance for Beverage Cartons be collected and treated separately, please March, 21 April, 23 May and and the Environment), special collec- only use the special bins at the five sites. 25 June. tion bins have been installed at the Cabinet member for visible services Cllr • Corporate Resources - 1 and council's household recycling centres Rob Curtis said:"I have been working for a 22 April, 29 May and 26 June. in Sully and and at the Tesco number of years to get Tetra cartons added • Community Wellbeing and stores in Barry, Penarth and to the list of items which can be recycled. Safety - 14 April, 21 May and Cabinet member for visible services Cllr Rob . Vale residents have always reponded well 18 June. Curtis and Barry resident Joan Cameron at the newly-installed recycling bank at the Tesco Tetra Pak Ltd will be responsible for emp- to the different recycling schemes we have • Economy and Environment - store in Barry. tying the bins and, once collected, the car- implemented." 15 April, 22 May and 20 June.

Top images: Penarth's Italian Gardens, Castle and Country Park, Barry. 4 ValeNews

ValeWaves Spring 2008 | Issue 19 www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk Newsinbrief CCTV operators’ vital Flooding advice If flooding looks likely, take the following precautions: • Protect doorways and low level vents with sandbags role in drugs haul (the council recently agreed to provide a total of 1,000 wo CCTV operators "The awards emphasise the sandbags to help local resi- have been praised for importance of the successful dents protect homes at T their "magnificent partnership that exists greatest risk in the event of work" in assisting in two between the police, the coun- possible flooding; they are arrests and the seizure of cil and the CCTV unit in the available - with a maximum more than £50,000 worth Vale. It is through this part- of 15 each on a first come, of cannabis. nership that we have been first served basis - from the In one of her final official able to make these arrests authority's Court Road duties as Vale Police and remove a large amount depot). Remember to Divisional Commander, of illegal drugs from our com- unblock vents before switch- Superintendent Sue Hayes munity. ing everything back on. presented the two operators “The people operating the • Move valuables, food and with special Superintendent’s CCTV cameras in the Vale other possessions upstairs Commendations. need to remain anonymous The incident occurred in but that does not preclude where possible. If you Barry last year when the them from being recognised live in a bungalow, caravan, CCTV operators, working and congratulated for their prefab or any other dwelling under the umbrella of the magnificent work. They help without access to a second Safer Vale Partnership, to keep the Vale one of the Cabinet member for housing and community safety Cllr Margaret storey, and you find yourself observed a disturbance out- safest places in the country.” Wilkinson and Superintendent Sue Hayes. in difficulty, alert the emer- side a public house. After Supt Hayes was accompa- fight against serious crime sentatives of the Vale council, gency services so you can be those involved left the scene, nied by council cabinet mem- and has been very effective in Police, Fire and Rescue, evacuated. If you are able to the CCTV cameras followed ber for housing and commu- supporting the police in com- Probation and Crown self evacuate and stay with their vehicle’s movements nity safety Cllr Margaret bating criminal activities in Prosecution Services, Vale family and friends inform the and directed police to where Wilkinson, who said: “The the Vale.” Local Health Board, NHS Trust emergency services so your the car was parked. CCTV partnership is an • The Safer Vale and statutory and voluntary location is known. Superintendent Hayes said: extremely effective tool in the Partnership comprises repre- bodies. • Turn off gas and electricity if flooding is definitely about to happen. Do not lose • Assume that flood water ‘Question Time’ clicks contains sewage. your right to • Ensure that you wear gloves when handling vote affected items. with local youngsters • Thoroughly disinfect and lections for county dry affected household oung people have ic voting system called people asked really good councils and items. been encouraged 'educlick', enabling them to questions and contributed Etown/community Yto get involved in vote on what they thought of some really valid discussion councils are taking place During/after flooding: democracy and realise on 1 May, 2008. In order • Co-operate fully with the the day, the facilitators and points about issues close to that their vote can make a for you to be able to vote, emergency services. even the panel members. their hearts. We are definitely difference. your name must appear on • DO NOT switch on elec- The council's youth partici- hoping to organise further tricity or gas until these have As part of a series of events pation officer, Ve Van de Youth Question Time events the Electoral Register. If to mark Local Democracy your name is not on the been inspected. Voorde, said: "The young in the future." • DO NOT use food that Week, more than 160 sec- register, you will not be has been in contact with ondary school students, aged able to vote. flood water. 11 to 19, attended two 'Youth If you want to check that Visit www.valeofglamor- Question Time' events. your name is on the Electoral gan.gov.uk/flooding for A panel of Vale councillors Register or if you require reg- more information and to and officers, town and com- istration forms, you should download our online leaflets munity councillors, police contact the Vale of Glamorgan inspectors and local business Useful websites: Electoral Registration Section representatives tackled ques- • After a Flood - Environment on 01446 709304. Agency booklet: tions covering issues as The Electoral Register is also http://www.environment- diverse as youth facilities, used by credit agencies to ver- agency.gov.uk public transport, the environ- ify your details and proof of • Repair and restoration of ment, crime and personal residency for mortgage appli- buildings following floods: safety and really challenged cations, loans, credit agree- www.ciria.org.uk/flooding/dis- the stereotypical way in which ments and opening bank infection.htm young people are often accounts. You should be aware • Sewer Flooding - Your ques- viewed. that, if you are not on the tions answered: The young people also took electoral register, you may be http://www.watervoice.org.uk/ part in an interactive electron- refused credit.

Top images: Robin at Birchgrove Wood, Barry, sunrise at Penarth and Llanmihangel. Whatson 5 www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk ValeWaves Spring 2008 | Issue 19 What's On in the Vale this Spring

March A parade of the Merchant Navy or visit www.stdonats.com Protecting our in the autumn and winter Association is planned between months but the summer is more Fri 21 to Mon 24 – Easter Fun the Town Hall and the Civic Sun 4 and Mon 5 - Medieval Coastline at Offices in Barry. They will form in Welsh Rebellion, Cosmeston people orientated." front of the Town Hall shortly Medieval Village Conserving the heritage of the However, with the British Easter activities and entertainment after 11am, before marching Vale's beautiful coastline is the weather being reliably for all the family including face May Day is a time of celebration down Holton Road at 11.25am. A and feasting but, in the village of job of a special team based at unpredictable, people often head painting, storytelling and bouncy short ceremony will then take castles. From 10am to 6pm. Cosmeston, it is a time of Dunraven Bay, Southerndown. for the beach any time the sun place by the Merchant Navy rebellion! Admission – £3.50 Admission – £6 adults, £2 The council's Glamorgan shines. Memorial in front of the Civic adults, £2 children, £8 family. For children, £15 family (two adults Offices. Heritage Coast team ensures Paul said: 'Most importantly, and four children). For details, call details, call 02920 701678. that the spectacular coastline is we want everyone to enjoy 02920 593328 or visit Sun 20 - Georgie Fame In Sat 17 - Potted Potter, St enjoyed by hundreds of www.dyffryngardens.org.uk Concert, St Donats Arts themselves but please respect Donats Arts Centre thousands of annual visitors. Centre the coast and help us look after Sat 22 – Farmers' Market, Principal ranger Paul Dunn Watch comic double act Dan and it for the future.' Westbourne School, Penarth With a career spanning almost 50 Jeff take on the challenge to tell leads the team of Belinda years, Georgie Fame is an icon of Ashong, Paul Lock and Helen In addition to the four rangers, From 10am to 1pm. Call 01656 the story of the Harry Potter the British music scene. books in just 60 minutes! The Mills, which is based at the other staff include Louise Bebb 729305 for details. Tickets: £21.50 (£20). For further show includes endless costumes, Heritage Coast centre and who works at the Heritage information, call 01446 799100 Sat 22 to Mon 24 - Easter humour, brilliant songs, ridiculous Coast's 'Seawatch Centre' at or visit www.stdonats.com whose work includes: sensitive Bunny Rides, Barry Island props, and a generous helping of habitat and species management , Louise Price, the Railway Hogwarts magic. For ages six and Thurs 24 – Salsa Celtica, Barry to improve grasslands for plants, project assistant and an estate Memorial Hall and Theatre upwards. For further information Enjoy a ride on a train and about the show and tickets, call butterflies and other wildlife; worker at Dunraven Park. children’s activities, including a Cuban jazz with a Celtic accent. 01446 799100 or visit enhancing the landscape by treasure hunt. Prices to be The band members hail from all www.stdonats.com planting trees and organising confirmed. Call 01446 748816 for over the world, and they fuse litter-picks; improving access Sun 25 and Mon 26 - History details. Afro-Latin rhythms and melodies through footpath clearance, stile with traditional Celtic and Scottish Through The Ages, Cosmeston Sun 23 and Mon 24 – A and wall repairs; raising music to create sexy salsa Medieval Village Medieval Easter, Cosmeston awareness of the area with 'talks grooves. Music doesn't get more Medieval Village, Penarth Join the fun at Cosmeston exciting than this! To find out and walks', public events and Medieval Village where travellers interpretation, and working Experience life in 14th Century more, call 01446 738622, email from other times and places will Wales with bread baking, [email protected] or gather for the weekend, including closely in partnership with local weapons and armour displays plus visit the ever popular warriors of farmers and communities. School visits are extremely successful. traditional medieval crafts and an www.memorialhalltheatre.co.uk ancient Greece and the Duke of Numerous schools also visit Easter egg hunt! Admission – Wellington infantry. Also watch Sun 27 April - Porthkerry Plod, (sometimes from as far away as Brochure on the shelves £3.50 adults, £2 children, £8 out for Tudor Time Travellers and Barry the Midlands) to learn about a family. For more information, call Queen Victoria's Redcoats. coastline rich in wildlife and The 2008 Glamorgan 02920 701678. Admission – £3.50 adults, £2 The Penarth and Dinas Runners history. Heritage Coast and club, in association with the Vale children, £8 family. To find out Tues 25 to Sat 19 April - Paul, who has worked as a Countryside tourism brochure Council, present a five-mile, multi- more, call 02920 701678. Photographic Exhibition, Barry ranger for 28 years, said: "We has hit the shelves. terrain race around Porthkerry Park Town Hall Exhibition Space in Barry. Either get in training to June can be working on a wide A host of attractions are Barry Citizens' Action Group join the couple of hundred variety of tasks in any one day, featured in the free and present 'Barry past and present,' a competitors who make this annual Sat 7 and Sun 8 - Barry and in how many other jobs can informative collection of photos from 1908 to event such a success or go down Transport Festival you do that? It is such a annual to the park to cheer them on. 2008 of Barry Town Hall, Central The festival will include buses, dramatic place to work brochure, Park and events at King Square Tues 29 – All Saints' Church cars and motorcycles with free throughout the year as you get which has over the years. Entry to the (Barry) centenary service classic bus rides around the local the extremes of weather on the won national exhibition is free. For further area. Both steam and diesel coast." information, call 01446 709805. recognition To celebrate the centenary of All hauled trains will be in operation Paul added: "Seeing a job in recent Saints' Church in Barry, there are over the two days on an intensive Fri 28 - Ballroom and through and watching a number of events to look out service linking Barry Island, Hood years, and is Sequence Dance, The Paget for in the coming months. In Road and Woodham Halt. For conservation projects develop produced by Rooms, Penarth addition to this special service, the further information, call 01446 year on year gives you great the council All are welcome at this friendly celebrations will include a concert 748816, email satisfaction. However, we also in close collaboration with social evening from 8 to bringing together the Barry [email protected] or see things that make you feel County Borough 10.30pm. Bring your own drinks. Ladies' Choir, Barry Male Voice visit like tearing your hair out such as Council. Tickets cost £4. Call 01443 Choir and the Barry Choral www.valeofglamorganrailway.co.uk litter and vandalism." Society on 31 May, and a Cabinet member for 238867 or 07890 707759. The ranger team's work varies centenary flower festival from 5 Sun 8 – Champagne and tourism and leisure Cllr Gwyn Fri 28 and Sat 29 - Atlantic to 7 June. For further information strawberries summer concert, John said: "The brochure is College International Show, St about the series of events, visit St Donat's Arts centre now available to download Donats Arts Centre www.barryallsaints.org.uk A summer concert with soprano from the council website. We Enjoy a whistle-stop tour around Dame Emma Kirkby and lute promote the Heritage Coast world culture in a show which is May player Anthony Rooley. For and countryside in a variety packed full of all the vibrancy that details, call of ways and work closely Sun 4 - An Evening with the 01446 799100. makes Atlantic College such a Blues Band’s Dave Kelly and with partners such as Visit special place. Tickets: £5 and Maggie Bell, Scotland's Queen Mon 16 to Sun 29 - Wales to ensure maximum £3.50. Call 01446 799100 for of Soul, St Donats Arts Centre Midsummer Festival of Music details. exposure for the area. " and Theatre, Dyffryn Gardens Principal ranger Paul Dunn (left) and his Two stalwarts of the British For more information or to team of rangers – Belinda Ashong, get your free copy of the April rhythm and blues scene perform The festival of music and theatre Helen Mills and Paul Lock. on what will be an evening of returns to Dyffryn's open-air brochure and other leaflets, through out the year, as Belinda Sat 19 - Freedom of the acoustic blues, soul and good theatre garden. Call 02920 telephone 01446 709328. explains: "A lot of practical Borough parade: Merchant times. The show starts at 7.30pm 593328 for further information or Alternatively, visit the website conservation work is carried out Navy Association (Wales), and tickets cost from £15. For visit at www.visitthevale.com. Barry town centre further details, call 01446 799100 www.midsummerfestival.co.uk

Top images: Along the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. 6 ValeNews

ValeWaves Spring 2008 | Issue 19 www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk Newsinbrief Valuable contributions to Blankets replaced free of charge countryside improvements As part of annual Safe and Sound roadshows in Barry and Penarth, council trading rganisations and individuals areas and on the council’s website - standards officers intercept- across the area have been www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/living/envir ed numerous faulty electric Othanked for their contribu- onment/countryside/public_rights_ blankets used by elderly tions to a council plan covering of_way/rowip.aspx people across the county. access to the countryside over the Copies can also be obtained by More than 60 per cent of next 10 years. contacting: 64 blankets failed the tests Focusing on footpaths and bridleways, • [email protected] and were replaced free of the final Rights of Way Improvement Plan • telephone (01446) 704705 charge. outlines management strategies covering • Public Rights of Way Section, Vale of Many were the next 10 years, and will allow the Glamorgan Council, Dock Offices, • There are about 550 kilometres of worn out, council to prioritise work and focus Barry CF63 4RT. had poor resources. The document is available in English, public rights of way – footpaths, bridle- wiring, bro- The final report is based upon informa- Welsh, large print and on CD. ways and restricted byways – in the Vale. ken controls tion gathered over a three-year period Cabinet member for tourism and leisure In addition, there are 500 hectares of or no pro- from consultations with interested Cllr Gwyn John said: "I would like to common land, which, together with the tection groups, landowners, local people and visi- thank everyone who has contributed Glamorgan Heritage Coast and the coun- against tors. ideas or concerns to help with the try parks at Cosmeston (Penarth) and overheating. The document can be viewed at the improvement and future management of Porthkerry (Barry), provide further oppor- Consumer Civic Offices and Docks Office reception countryside access in the Vale." tunities for countryside leisure activities. education officer Kate Palmer said: “These results show how You said... important it is to have elec- tric blankets checked regu- Changes verall satisfaction larly." with the council and Those attending the road- Oits services is increas- shows were also offered ing, according to a large- advice on consumer issues, scale public opinion survey fire safety and energy effi- to Housing conducted at the end of ciency. last year. During the survey, which ‘Sea’ all the information was conducted independently, Benefits nearly 1,000 residents across Residents and visitors are the area were asked a variety reminded that up to date of questions about the council information on the quality of f you are a landlord or a choice as to where they and services from waste and bathing waters in the Vale is tenant of private rented choose to live; it will mean recycling to adult education. available between May and The results show the overall Iaccommodation, then that tenants with similar cir- September on the council satisfaction figure has the following changes cumstances who live in the website www.valeofglamor- increased from a 2005 level of could affect you. The Local same area will get the same gan.gov.uk). amount; it’s a flat rate based 74 per cent to 89 per cent. Housing Allowance, to be The number of people indi- The council and the introduced in April, is a on the area in which the ten- Environment Agency Wales ant lives and their household cating that they are proud to new way of working out live in the Vale has increased monitor the quality of the sea size; in most cases it will be housing benefits and will Who will be affected by from 87 per cent in 2005 to a water at Penarth, Jackson’s paid to the tenant and not the simplify the whole process the Local Housing current figure of 93 per cent. landlord, and it will be paid Allowance? Bay (Barry), Whitmore Bay of claiming. Satisfaction with waste and into a tenant's bank account Tenants and landlords of (Barry), Watchouse Bay recycling services, parks and What will the Local and not sent by cheque. So, if deregulated tenancies in the (Barry), Cold Knap (Barry), open spaces maintenance and Housing Allowance mean you do not have a bank private rented sector if the Fontygary Bay, Limpert Bay libraries has increased. to you? account, you will need to tenant: makes a new claim on (), Llantwit Major, The survey has also raised It will give tenants more open one. or after 7 April 2008; moves Southerndown and Ogmore. to a new address on or after some issues which the council samples are taken on a week- the 7 April 2008; has a break will look at, for example, the ly basis and quality cate- in their claim on or after the 7 way in which people receive gorised as ‘excellent,' ‘good’ April 2008. information appears to be or ‘poor.' If you want more informa- changing, with greater num- bers using the council's web- Results, which show that tion, please contact: • Benefits@valeofglamor- site. Council consultation offi- bathing water quality contin- gan.gov.uk cer Rhian Thomas said: "All the ues to improve, are also dis- • Telephone 01446 709495 information is particularly use- played on notice boards at • Visit our website at ful for the council in develop- each of the beaches. www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk ing services."

Top images: Dyffryn Gardens, High Street, Cowbridge, hanging basket at and lambs near St Bride's Major. ValeNews 7 www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk ValeWaves Spring 2008 | Issue 19 What’s in your bin this Spring? Garden waste service t's a big thank you to everyone ings, leaves, plants, flowers and non- who participated in the garden invasive weeds. Iwaste service last year. All garden waste is taken to a local More than 2,000 tonnes of garden farm where it is composted. This com- waste were composted during the post is then used on the farm, provid- seven months of the scheme; four ing an environmentally friendly times more than collected previously. method of waste disposal. The fortnightly kerbside collection The council is hoping that many service will again be available between more residents will use the service, 17 March and the end of November helping us reach the challenging tar- replacing the winter ‘ring and request’ gets set by the Welsh Assembly which system. Residents will have a choice of require local authorities to recycle and placing their garden waste out in dis- compost at least 40 per cent of their posable biodegradable sacks or new waste by 2009/10. re-usable fabric bags. Cabinet member for visible services The bags will be collected once every Cllr Rob Curtis explained: “I am really two weeks on the same day as your pleased that many residents in the Vale plastic and cardboard is collected for have taken this issue seriously and recycling. increased the amount of garden waste Both types of bags can be bought composted. Thank you for making this from council offices in Barry (Civic), scheme such a success, but we really Penarth, Llantwit Major and need to do better and increase the Local residents have warmly welcomed the council's kerbside collections of garden waste. Cowbridge. The biodegradable bags amount of garden waste composted are priced at three for £1, and the re- further." Recycling Centres. The green waste cated recycling vehicle on your pre- usable bags are £1 each. Garden waste can also be taken free from these sites is also composted arranged collection day. Please note The following can be disposed of – of charge to designated skips at the locally. that we will not collect any black bags grass cuttings, hedge clippings, prun- Llandow and Sully Household Your bags will be collected by a dedi- containing garden waste. Council offers free What a huge difference Christmas trees chocolate and foil wrapped chocolate As in previous years, all Christmas trees bunnies. compost bins Foil – Our recycling contractor will collected have been put to good use locally. Over 15,000 trees, up again not accept foil so please do not put ouncillors have agreed to egg shells and cardboard egg boxes, from 2006, have been composted this this out with your cans. You can recy- offer free compost bins to small amounts of paper and cardboard, year. cle clean foil in the banks at the fol- Cpensioners and those on grass cuttings, hedge and shrub clip- lowing sites: Morrisons Car Park benefits in the Vale. pings, old plants and flowers. It’s down to you (opposite Halfords), Tesco, Waitrose, Some 1,500 bins have been provided Discounted compost bins are also Our recycling rates are continuing to and Llandow and Sully Household by the Welsh Assembly and will be dis- available to all Vale residents priced improve and that’s all down to you – Recycling Centres. tributed on a first come, first served from just £10. Please call 01884 841 thank you! Sorry but they're gone! basis. If you would like one of these 515 for details or see the composting We collected an additional 200 tonnes bins, you can collect them from the pages on the council website. of waste for recycling over Christmas Thanks to the overwhelming support Alps depot on a Tuesday and Thursday compared with the same time last year. of residents for our kerbside recycling between 9am and 4pm. To receive a This is equivalent in weight to saving service, we have run out of recycling free compost bin, you need to show 200 family cars from being buried in boxes. Some 70,000 recycling boxes proof of eligibility and provide your landfill and demonstrates what a huge have been distributed since the start of name and address. difference we can all make by using the recycling scheme in 2003. Making compost at home is really local recycling services. We are currently reviewing our recy- easy to do and it saves you money as At Easter, thousands of chocolate cling service and will not be replacing you don’t have to buy compost from eggs will be eaten in the Vale and resi- the boxes at the moment. However, the garden centre. It can also reduce dents are reminded that they can recy- residents can still use the service by your weekly rubbish by over 20 per cle the cardboard and plastic packag- placing recycling in plastic bags which cent so just think what a difference this ing using the council’s free kerbside are then recycled. We apologise for would make if every household in the recycling service. any inconvenience caused. Vale did it!” Top tip - If you haven’t bought your Please remember - do not place your Materials that can be composted eggs yet you may want to consider recycling out in black bags as these are include uncooked fruit and vegetable Llantwit Major resident Pat Cooper has col- more environmentally-friendly options for refuse only and will not be collect- waste, tea bags and coffee grounds, lected her free compost bin from the council. with less packaging, such as big bars of ed by our recycling crew.

Top images: Garden waste bags, more than 15,000 Christmas trees collected for composting, local youngsters help the council continue to improve its recycling rates and residents urged to home compost. 8 ValeNews

ValeWaves Spring 2008 | Issue 19 www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk Newsinbrief ‘Smart’ way for you to travel Alex wins uring the spring and early sum- • Veolia Transport Cymru – customer operating in the Vale at the time of publi- mer, new 'smart cards' are being relations 01443 215105 ; website cation. Copies of this booklet can be sent the award Dissued to existing holders of www.veolia-transport.co.uk out automatically, as and when they are free concessionary bus passes. • Caring Coaches – customer relations produced, on receipt of a written request. Alex Daw, who has helped The move will improve accountability for 01446 736295 or 421117 Please complete the attached form children cross the busy Ham repayment to local operators, and the RAIL SERVICES and return it to the council's public Lane East outside Llantwit new-style cards will be scanned by an elec- National Rail Enquiries – For information transportation unit to receive future tronic reader when the holder boards the Major Comprehensive on all rail services throughout the UK tele- copies in the post. bus. School and Llanilltud Fawr phone 0845 7484950; website: Existing cardholders will automatically be To the Vale of Glamorgan Council's Primary School for nearly www.nationalrail.co.uk sent replacement cards, and there is no Public Transportation Unit five years, has won the Arriva Trains Wales – customer relations need to contact the council. Please include my contact details council's School Crossing – 0845 6061660; assistance for the dis- below on your database to receive If you are a resident within the Vale, abled – 0845 3003005; website: future revised copies of the Vale of Patrol of the Year Award. aged over 60 years or have a disability www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk Glamorgan Public Transport Guide as covered by the scheme, but have not yet and when they are produced. I applied for a free concessionary bus pass, VALE COUNCIL understand that every effort is taken you can apply by telephoning 01446 • Public transport – supported local bus to ensure the information contained 709224 to request an application form. Services – 01446 704687 or 704637 within the booklet is correct but the Forms can also be collected in person from • School transport – mainstream – council does not accept liability for the Civic Offices, Barry, and are available 01446 704687 or 704664; special needs – any errors, inaccuracies or service online at www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk 01446 709114 alterations made after production.

Cllr Chris Williams with top under Public Transport, Concessions. • Bus shelters – maintenance and cleans- Mr/Miss/Mrs/Ms: ...... ✁ ‘lollipop’ Alex Daw PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFORMATION ing – 029 2067 3000 Forename: ...... • Concessionary bus passes – free con- Alex was a 'deserved win- • TRAVELINE CYMRU – For information Surname: ...... cessionary bus pass applications for per- Address: ...... ner,' said Cllr Chris Williams, on all local bus, coach and rail services throughout Wales; telephone 0871 200 22 sons aged 60 plus and persons with certain ...... cabinet member for plan- 33; website www.traveline.info; text spe- disabilities – 01446 709224 or pick up an ...... ning and transportation, cific bus stop codes to 84268 application form from the Civic Offices, ...... who hosted an annual Barry. Postcode: ...... awards ceremony that LOCAL BUS SERVICE OPERATORS (for Signed: ...... all timetable enquiries, telephone Website: www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk Dated: ...... recognises the continuing Traveline on 0871 200 22 33) high standards achieved by • Return to: Planning and • Cardiff Bus – customer relations 029 Public Transport Guide Transportation Policy, Vale of Glamorgan "lollipop ladies and gentle- 20 666444; website www.cardiffbus.com The council's public transportation unit Council, Dock Offices, Subway Road, men." • Easyway – customer relations 01656 produce a biannual public transport guide, Barry Docks, CF63 4RT ✁ Alex said: "This was a 655655 which is available free of lovely surprise. The children • EST Bus Ltd & Cartel Travel Ltd – cus- charge from council offices, make the job enjoyable and tomer relations 01446 773333; website public libraries and some I love doing it." www.estcoachbus.com post offices in rural areas. This booklet contains If anyone is interested in • First Cymru Buses Ltd – customer rela- timetables for all local bus becoming a school crossing tions 01792 572255; website www.first- group.com services and rail services patrol officer, there are cur- rent vacancies in Barry, Penarth, Llantwit Major and Changes to business rate liabliity • empty properties where the gov.uk Cowbridge. The rate of pay ratepayer is either a charity or • website: Business Rates on is £6.08 per hour, with a of empty properties a community amateur sports www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk New regulations (from 1 1 January, 2008 club which will be exempt half pay retainer during The Non Domestic Rate April) are being introduced • if the empty property is from empty property rates. school holidays. Section can be contacted by: For further information, by the Welsh Assembly described as Industrial premis- Can I ask that my property es, there will be a six-month • post: NNDR Section Finance please contact Karen Stokes Government to provide an be removed from the incentive to bring empty exempt period followed by a Department, Civic Offices, in the council road safety Rating List? business properties back 100 per cent charge. The Holton Road, Barry unit on 01446 704775. As presently, it is for the valua- into use. exempt period commenced on tion officer to decide if the CF63 4RU The regulations will help 1 October, 2007. property should be held in the • tel: 01446 709299 increase the supply of premises (NB – an exempt period rating list and the rateable • email: nndr@valeofglamor- Easter available to let, thereby reduc- starts on the day the property value/description which gan.gov.uk ing business rents and improv- was last vacated) is appropriate. The proposed exemptions collections ing competitiveness. Information from the charge are: Vale What will this mean for • website: www.voa.gov.uk Waves Residents are reminded that • the initial three or six month your business rates liability? • post: Valuation Office We want to hear rubbish and recycling will be exempt period; • if the empty property is Agency, South Wales Group,Ty collected as normal on Good • properties with a rateable your views... described as a commercial Rhodfa, Ty Glas Avenue, Friday and Easter Monday. value less than £2,200; premises, there will be a three- Llanishen, Cardiff CF14 5GR Contact 01466 709454 Please ensure your waste is • listed buildings; month exempt period followed • tel: 02920 806800 or email press@vale- placed out by 7am on your • properties whose occupation by a 100 per cent charge. The • email: collection day. is prohibited, and ofglamorgan.gov.uk exempt period commenced on [email protected].

Top images: Tree planting at Porthkerry Country Park, Barry, samba band at Llantwit Major, St Donats Bay and Penarth Marina.