COUNCIL SUMMONS

You are hereby summoned to attend a meeting of the LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL to be held on Monday NEXT the 4th November, 2019 at the Welfare Hall, Loughor, commencing at 7.15pm, for the transaction of the following business:- 1. Mayor’s Announcements 2. Apologies for absence. 3. To receive disclosures of Personal Interests from Members under the Council’s Code of Conduct. (Note: Members are requested to identify the item number and subject matter that their Personal Interest relates to. Where the Personal Interest is a Prejudicial Interest they must withdraw from the meeting while that item of business is discussed.) 4. To confirm the Minutes of the Meeting of Council held on the 7th October 2019 (copy enclosed) 5. To consider matters arising from the Minutes, if any. 6. To receive the Minutes of the meeting of the Welfare Hall Management Committee/Trustees held on the 7th October 2019 .(copy enclosed) 7. To receive the Minutes of the meeting of the Functions Sub-Committee held on the 7th October 2019 (copy enclosed). 8. To receive the Minutes of the Lantern Parade Committee held on the 2nd October 2019. 9. To receive a report on current policing activity. 10. To consider correspondence received, if any. 11. To receive reports from Members attending meetings/functions. 12. To consider the Report of the Clerk (copy enclosed). 13. To consider the Planning Report (copy enclosed). 14. Any other business which the Chair determines to be urgent. 15. To consider passing a resolution to exclude the press and public during consideration of the next item of business due to the confidential nature of the matters to be considered. 16. To consider the Further Report of the Clerk (copy attached). Would members please ensure that they sign the Attendance Register. Dated this 23rd October,2019

N.G.Havard Clerk to the Council

CYNGOR TREF LLWCHWR

LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of the Meeting of

Llwchwr Town Council

held on the 7th October , 2019

PRESENT: Councillor Will Evans(Chair) Councillors S.Beynon, J. Bowen, A.Davis,Wendy Evans,H.Huelin,I.James, P.Parsons, C.Phillips, R.V.Smith, W.Smith, D.Walters, and R.Williams

(Welfare Hall, Loughor: 7.10pm – 8.05pm

65. MAYORS ANNOUNCEMENTS (i)The Mayor reported that former Town Councillor Wayne Phillips had sadly passed away-all present stood for a minute’s silence as a mark of respect. (ii)On the 27th September the Mayor attended St.Michael’s Church,Loughor for a Service to commemorate the life of John Charles Williams who donated three Fields to the local community and which later became Parc Williams-it was the 90th Anniversary of the Park. It was also the 10th Anniversary of the Friends of Parc William who help maintain the Park and remove litter. (iii)On Saturday the 28th September the Loughor Town Band held their Annual Concert at the Welfare Hall.It was well attended;the Hall was very full including 35 people in the Balcony. (iv)On the 29th September the Mayor attended the 50th Anniversary of the Volunteers of the Loughor Inshore Rescue Service.A Service officiated by the Vicar,Adrian Morgan was a Blessing of the Lifeboat.The Lord Mayor, Peter Black also attended the Event. (v)On the 6th October the Mayor and Mayoress attended the Maes Yr Efail complex to commemorate the 90th birthday of Mr.Leonard Jones-the Mayor presented Mr.Jones with a Council Award and a birthday card.There were a large number of family members present including great grandchildren-there was also 30 family members from Australia.

66. APOLOGIES Therewere apologies for absence from Councillors C.Richards,K.Roberts,J.Williams and P.Williams.

67. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interests

68. MINUTES OF COUNCIL It was RESOLVED that the minutes of the Meeting of Council held on the 2nd September 2019 be confirmed as a correct record.

69. MATTERS ARISING There were no matters arising.

70. WELFARE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE/TRUSTEES The Minutes of the Meeting of the Welfare Hall Management Committee/ Trustees held on the 2nd September 2019 were noted and agreed.

71. FUNCTIONS SUB-COMMITTEE The Minutes of the Meeting of the Functions Sub-Committee held on the 2nd September 2019 were noted and agreed.

72. LANTERN PARADE COMMITTEE The Minutes of the Meeting of the Lantern Parade Committee held on the 11th September 2019 were noted and agreed.

73. POLICE REPORT There was no Police Report.

74. PENYRHEOL SCHOOL STUDENT VOICE Mr.A.Tootill,Headmaster, and three students of the School were in attendance. The Mayor presented and read out a Statement explaining the functions of the Town Council.There followed a Question and Answer Session with the Councillors and Students on topics including CCTV,Youth Clubs,and dog waste bins. The Deputy Mayor thanked the Headmaster and students for their attendance.

75. CORRESPONDENCE The Clerk reported that he had received a request from PPL/PRS for a Royalty payment in respect of the Music Licence for the Welfare Hall and in order to accommodate the Mayor’s Charity Concert it was recommended that payment be authorised. It was RESOLVED to authorise the payment to PPL/PRS.

76 . MEMBERS REPORTS The Deputy Mayor reported that he,Councillor C.Richards and the Clerk had attended the Town and Community Council Forum on the 30th September at the Guildhall-there had been a presentation by the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales.

77. REPORT OF THE CLERK (a) Police Matters There was no Police Report.

(b) Accounts for Payment It was RESOLVED that the following payments be authorised- United-stationery £79.29 Diaries £19.98 Stamps £13.32 Wines and soft drinks £367.58

(c) Grants- No application for Grants had been received

(d)Precept The Clerk’s Report was NOTED

(e)Jobted The Clerk’s Report was NOTED and it was RESOLVED that the Jobted Statement be uploaded onto the Council’s website.

(f)Environmental Issues The Clerk’s Report was NOTED and it was RESOLVED that the proposed amendment to the Terms of Reference to the Budget Working Party Sub Committee be adopted.

(g)Ageing Well in Wales The Clerk’s Report was NOTED

(h)Poppy Appeal-Remembrance Service The Clerk’s Report was NOTED and it was RESOLVED that- (i)the Council will order one large civic and two smaller wreaths and make a donation of £100.00 to the Royal British Legion (ii) the Clerk request a Calendar of Events from the Secretary of the Legion and with particular reference to the attendance of a Vicar and a Bugler

(i)External Audit. The Clerk’s Report was NOTED and it was RESOLVED that the Council approves and accepts the Annual Return for the Year ended 31st March 2019.

(j)SLCC The Clerk’s Report was NOTED and it was RESOLVED that the Clerk be authorised to purchase the Clerks Manual.

78. PLANNING REPORT 1- The Council considered the following planning applications upon which the observations of the Town Council had been requested

(i)2019/1871 Kingsbridge - Area 2 7 Pantglas, Loughor, Swansea, SA4 6BJ Miss Nicola Owen- Single storey side extension and front porch (Application for a Certificate of Proposed Lawful Development) It was RESOLVED that there would be no objection

(ii) 2019/1936 Upper Loughor - Area 2 134 Glebe Road, Loughor, Swansea, SA4 6SL Mrs. J. Ling- Single storey rear extension It was RESOLVED that there would be no objection

(iii) 2019/1969 Lower Loughor - Area 2 Glanymor House , Glanymor Lane, Loughor, Swansea, SA4 6RW Mr & Mrs Gethin and Sara Horan- Single storey rear extension, fire escape door, rear external staircase,fenestration alterations, front and side patio area and 1.2m high retaining wall. It was RESOLVED that there would be no objection

(iv) 2019/2005 Upper Loughor - Area 2 12 Glanymor Road, Loughor, Swansea, SA4 6SA Mr Darren Brown- Rear roof extension with juliette balcony It was RESOLVED that there would be no objection

79. URGENT ITEMS There were no urgent items.

80. EXCLUSION OF THE PRESS AND PUBLIC It was RESOLVED that the press and public be excluded from the meeting during the discussion of the next item due to the confidential nature of the matter under discussion.

81. FURTHER REPORT OF THE CLERK (a) Payments It was RESOLVED that the payments referred to in the Report be authorised

(b) Receipts and Payments The current receipts and payments of the Council were NOTED.

(c)The Caretaker The Clerk’s Report was NOTED and it was RESOLVED that the Caretaker apply to go on relevant training such as manual handling

(e)Globe Field (i)Acquistion The Clerk’s Report was NOTED.

(ii)Tree Lights The Clerk’s Report was NOTED AND it was RESOLVED in respect of both matters that the Clerk be authorised to e mail the appropriate Senior Officer in Swansea Council.

Chair

CYNGOR TREF LLWCHWR

LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of the Welfare Hall Management Committee /Trustees

Meeting held on the 7th October ,2019

Present: Councillor I.James(Chair) Councillors S.Beynon, J. Bowen,A.Davis,Will Evans,Wendy Evans,H.Huelin,P.Parsons, C.Phillips,, R.V.Smith, W.Smith, D.Walters, and R.Williams

(Welfare Hall, Loughor: 7.00pm – 7.10pm)

21. APOLOGIES There were apologies for absence from Councillors C.Richards,K.Roberts,J.Williams and P.Williams

22. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest.

23. MINUTES It was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on the 2nd September 2019 be confirmed as a correct record..

24. MATTERS ARISING There were no matters arising.

25. REPORT OF THE CLERK (a)Payments It was NOTED that the following payment has been made by Direct Debit- Virgin Media (September) £72.90 The following payments were authorised- Viking Signs £308.70 Samatrix £550.56 Worcester Boiler Service £164.00 Miscellaneous Supplies £45.98 First Aid Box £19.99

(b)Worcester Boiler The Clerk’s Report was NOTED

(c)Car Park Disclaimer Notice The Clerk’s Report was NOTED .

(d)Drainage Issues The Clerk’s Report and verbal update were NOTED and it was RESOLVED (i)to send a letter of thanks to the Caretaker and (ii)that the Clerk be authorised to enter into the Agreement referred to in the Report on behalf of the Council.

(e)First Aid Box The Clerk’s Report was NOTED

(f)Receipts and Payments The Clerk’s Report was NOTED.

26. URGENT ITEMS There were no urgent items.

Chair

CYNGOR TREF LLWCHWR

LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of the meeting of the FUNCTION SUB-COMMITTEE held on the 7th October ,2019

PRESENT: Councillor Will Evans(Chair) Councillors S.Beynon, J. Bowen, A.Davis,Wendy Evans,H.Huelin,I.James, P.Parsons, C.Phillips, R.V.Smith, W.Smith, D.Walters, and R.Williams

(Welfare Hall, Loughor: 8.05 pm – 8.30pm)

21. APOLOGIES There were apologies for absence from Councillors C.Richards,K.Roberts,J.Williams and P.Williams.

22. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interests.

23. MINUTES It was RESOLVED that the minutes of the meeting held on the 2nd September 2019 be confirmed as a correct record.

24. MATTERS ARISING There were no matters arising . 25. CLERK’S REPORT (i) Cawl a Chan 2020 The Clerk’s Report was NOTED.

(ii)Annual Dinner 2020 The Clerk’s Report was NOTED

(iii)Awards Evening 2020 The Clerk’s Report was NOTED

(iv)Mayor’s Charity Concert 2019 The Clerk’s Report was NOTED and the final arrangements were discussed and agreed.

26. OTHER COUNCIL FUNCTIONS It was NOTED that there are currently no other plans in place

Chair GORSEINON TOWN COUNCIL And LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL Minutes of the Lantern Parade Committee Meeting held on the 2nd October,2019 PRESENT Councillor Malcolm Curtice(Chair) Councillors Pam Morgan,Jan Curtice,Ireen James,Pam Williams, and Carlo Rabiotti John Millard,Nigel Havard,Peter James,Mike Lewis

1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE There was an apology for absence from Councillor Sandra Beynon 2. EVENT LOCATION etc All covered and in place 3. SAG etc JM has sent everything off-usually not contacted until week before. PJ-CCS normally look at matters 2 weeks before Insurances-GTC cover 4. LIGHTS New lamp standards in next week including xmas features.Xmas lighting down High Street.Cost GTC £17,000.00 Barriers around Xmas tree-normal barriers -JM 5. APPROVALS JM applied to CCS/Rugby Club OK/Andrea Thomas keyholder

6. ROAD CLOSURES In place/barriers ordered/PJ to tour route with Police

7. KNIGHT BRENCHLEY etc Road closure barriers delivered on morning. Seen Pam from ASDA and mince pies ordered for Bethel Chapel Outside perimeter-no issues L.Jones-putting on food and funfair Marshalls –confirmed available-supervisor to tour route with PJ/min 5 hours 4.00pm to 9.00pm Xmas Lights-switch on when Father Xmas reaches Bus Station Father Xmas Jeff Bowen/Mother Xmas Sandra Beynon Grotto-OK ordered Firework display-same as last year Bethel Chapel –have liaised with them and will use their electrics Photographers-Will Kirby and Anthony Phillips 8. PARADE PC Tom O Neale confirmed police horses probably ok as long as no public order issues;he will be in attendance with PCSO’s and a van CCS-sleigh now defunct;not viable to take over.Road train booked-both sides open Mayor’s car-JC confirmed ok Radio Tircoed-confirmed availability;2 MC’s and singer.Singer by library.Will be in 2 venues and confirmed will advertise Event. Fire Station JC not yet had response Army Cadets-MC to arrange they march in Parade behind banner St.John Ambulance-Ruth had all required information-room allocated in Ty Newydd for emergency Lifeboat-IJ OK Panto –all 4 confirmed but Jermin want 50 characters-too much JM to work out average as top limit Circus Eruption-confirmed OK Sian/Fairytale OK Bands –as per agenda;ATC drums/Samba drum based Cariad OK Scouts OK Procession –CR in charge but needs 3 assistants for A,B and C-poosibly A.Stevens and M.Curtice 9. ADVERTISING Leaflets now done and will be sent to Schools,Facebook,shops and notice boards Start promoting 1st November Banners to be updated and put up on 1 November Environmental team-JB has contacted them Workshops-as per poster

Agenda Item 11

LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL Date 4th November ,2019 REPORT OF THE CLERK CONTENTS 1-Police Matters 2-Accounts for payment 3-Grants 4-Remuneraion Panel for Wales 5-Dog Fountains 6-RBS 7-Remembrance Day Services 8-Environmental Issues 9-Everyday Ageism Campaign

Dated this 25th October,2019

Agenda Item 12

LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL FULL COUNCIL Date 4th November, 2019 Report of the Clerk CONTENTS 1-Police Matters No report has been received. 2-Accounts for Payment The following payment has been made by Direct Debit- BNP Paribas(leasing fee) £134.40 The following payments need to be authorised- Office expenses(magnets) £7.20 Reimbursement of additional drinks for Mayor’s Concert £62.14 OVW-training fee £40.00 3-Grants- There have been no Applications for Grants this month. 4-Remuneration Panel for Wales The Clerk sets out below the latest Report from the Panel-there are no differences to the payments to Town and Community Councillors. Could members please note the deadline for making comments and observations on the Report “Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales Draft Annual Report - February 2020 I attach in accordance with the requirements of Section 147 of the Local Government (Wales) Measure 2011, a link to the IRPW’s draft Annual Report, February 2020, which would have effect for the financial year 2020/21, and a covering letter from the Chair, Mr John Bader. This has also been sent to the Minister for Housing & Local Government other interested parties. You can find the report by using the following link:

Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales Draft Annual Report - February 2020 Please note that Annex 5 (page 77) is a summary of new and updated determinations for this year. In order to meet the Measure’s requirement to publish this report by 28th February 2020, any representations you may wish to make about this report should be received by no later than 10 December 2019 via:

Post: IRP Secretariat Welsh Government First Floor, North Wing, N03 Cathays Park Cardiff. CF10 3NQ Email: [email protected]

Representations received after this date will not be considered. “

5-Dog Fountains The Clerk sets out his initial Report to the September Meeting- “The Clerk received the following comment through the Council’s website- “Name: Linda Morton Telephone: 07968741620 Email: [email protected] Comments I have seen a post on Facebook where a lot of town councils are installing water fountains for dogs in their local parks. There are a considerable amount of people who walk their dogs at Loughor Estuary (including myself) and I am enquiring as to whether this is something you have considered. Regards” The Clerk conferred with the Mayor and subsequently e mailed the Head of Estates in Swansea Council stating that the Town Council were minded,in principle,to support such a facility but would like some confirmation that CCS would permit such a facility and any costs involved. To date no reply has been received from Swansea Council.”

The Clerk has now received the following reply from Swansea Council- “I have passed your enquiry on to Jamie Rewbridge as the land around the estuary is under Leisure’s ownership. Unfortunately this is the response I have received, below. Adrian Skyrme Syrfëwr Adolygu Eiddo Property Review Surveyor Ystadau a Chyfleusterau Strategol Strategic Estates and Facilities

Adrian - Whilst this sounds like a nice scheme, I think it is fair to say that we do not have the resources to find the costs for the installation of such infrastructure or ongoing running costs in terms of water rates etc. to be able to take forward such a proposal at this time. “

6-Rialtas Business Solutions(RBS) As Members will be aware RBS provides the Council’s financial package being an online software package with a telephone help line. RBS have sent advance notice of their fees for the next financial year and which are set out out for Members information The fee for support and maintenance for one PC will be £124.00 plus VAT Year End Closedown and Annual Return Preparation-£560.00 plus VAT plus mileage of 45p per mile -this may seem a lot but the RBS operator was at the Clerk’s house last year for 6 hours preparing these specialised and detailed Accounts and Return.

7-Remembrance Day Services The Clerk has been in communication with Mr.Phil Sillick of the Royal British Legion and Mr.Mark Mathias-the Clerk sets out below an e mail from Mr.Mathias- “Dear Mr Havard I am not a member of the Legion and have no involvement apart from as a volunteer with the Poppy Appeal. As a result of a previous enquiry I have been provided with below but I will speak to Phil Sillick re communication in the future.In terms of your wreaths I understand that a Legion volunteer by the name of Delyth who is from Loughor is in contact with one of your Council members and she will provide the wreaths to them over the next week.I will check that this has happened but if you have any issues please feel free to make contact.

Saturday 2nd November: Field of Remembrance Dedication at the War Memorial West St, Gorseinon. Assemble at the Council Office at 09.30Hrs for dedication service at 10am.

Friday 8th November.

St John's Church Gowerton. Remembrance Service to commence at 7pm.

Sunday 10th November.

Parade will March from the Royal British Legion ( New Lodge Club) Alexandra Rd, at 09.30Hrs Service to commence at 10.00hrs at the Church. Parade will return Marching around Gorseinon then to the New Lodge Club, Light Refreshments to be provided to those who March on the Parade only.

November 10th.

Memorial Service will be held at St David's Church Loughor at 10am followed by Wreath laying at the Loughor War Memorial.

November 10th.

Remembrance and Wreath laying Service at the War Memorial inside Kingsbridge Cemetery at 2pm the Vicar will conduct a short Service.

Thursday 14th November

Remembrance Service at Grovesend Church at 6pm.” The Council’s wreaths have now been delivered.

8-Environmental Issues A) Members will be aware that a Budget Working Party sub Committee was convened on the 1st October to consider Environmental issues.For the benefit of Members who are not on the Committee the Clerk sets out his Report and the Minutes.In respect of the Minutes the Clerk sets out in bold what he believes are the actions required respectively by this Full Council Meeting and the next Meeting of the Budget Working Party Sub Committee.

The Report(redacted) “3-CARBON OFFSETTING Members will recall that at the last Meeting of Council they considered a Carbon Offsetting Report forwarded by Swansea Council;for convenience part of the Report is set out below- “Swansea Rural Development Partnership (RDP) recently commissioned a study into the feasibility of setting up a Community Carbon Offsetting business in rural Swansea. As a way of keeping you up to date with our work, and as we think you may be interested in the findings of the report, please find it attached. If you wish to discuss it with us, please let us know and we’ll be happy to come and meet you.” The Clerk sets out below some extracts from the Report which was carried out by Urban Foundry who were commissioned by Swansea Council who were asked to develop the scope for a carbon offsetting scheme in the local area. It may be useful to state what is Carbon Offsetting “Carbon offsetting initiatives have stemmed from the 1997 Kyoto protocol, an international agreement linked to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which commits its Parties by setting internationally binding emission reduction targets. This protocol has targeted more developed countries as it recognises the high levels of emissions produced as a result of industrial booms in those countries over the past 150 years, placing greater responsibilities on such nations. Since then, carbon offsetting schemes that allow individuals and companies to invest in environmental projects around the world in order to balance out their own carbon footprint have increased substantially. For individuals and businesses to engage it means weighing up costs of such initiatives: costs of inaction; direct costs; and cost of using land for trees rather than other purposes such as crops. These projects/ schemes are predominantly run by well-established, large scale providers, charities or governmental partners and entering into this as a business will be challenging for any small organisation with immediate competition from well established,well-resourced national and global providers and swift scaling (with the attendant costs) necessary in order to effectively compete. Key drivers It is useful to distinguish between two key drivers. The primary driver for this research was the notion of organisations (primarily private businesses) that produce carbon as polluters, and of introducing carbon offsetting as a means of those individual organisations offsetting their own carbon footprint. A similar process applies to individuals as consumers/citizens e.g. offsetting household carbon and/or activities that temporarily increase an individual’s carbon footprint such as travel by plane. The typical approach towards carbon offsetting is that first the carbon footprint of the organisation as a whole (or sometimes a specific action in the case of individuals) is calculated. There are numerous online free tools as well as some more sophisticated (and some less so) paid-for services. There are then multiple carbon offset websites that act effectively as a marketing interface/brokerage for the most part (many also contain online carbon offset calculators for an ‘all under one roof’ service). The carbon level is matched to a financial value of investment that will fund one or more accredited schemes to then offset that level of carbon and a transaction is made, with varying levels of feedback afterwards. Costs vary dependent on the nature of the offset required but for small impacts can be quite modest, ranging to more significant costs for larger organisations involved. There are many and varied carbon offset schemes across the world – the basic premise is that they allow both organisations/companies and individuals to balance the carbon footprint that they create (sometimes for a specific action or activity such as catching a flight, or for the entirety of their lifestyle/business) by investing in accredited environmental projects.

The substance of this commission was to explore carbon offsetting through tree planting, but it should be noted that carbon offset schemes also take other forms, such as investing funds in promulgating clean energy technology and improving insulation in homes, thus ‘offsetting’ by reducing carbon produced elsewhere. Many schemes have moved away from tree planting as other means of reduction of carbon elsewhere have proved faster, easier to monitor and manage, and can also bring other benefits, for example a more fuel-efficient cooking appliance not only reduces energy usage but is cheaper to run for a family on low income, generating socio-economic as well as environmental benefits. There are hundreds of companies running carbon offsetting schemes in which large businesses can invest. For example, Snowcarbon, Carbonfund, Carbonfootprint and Native Energy to name a few”

As an example the Clerk sets out an extract from the Snowcarbon website- “Snowcarbon was created to try to enable more skiers to travel to ski resorts by train, because rail travel to a ski resort creates only a fraction of the carbon emissions of the equivalent journey by plane or car, and can be a way to make the journey become an enjoyable part of the holiday. Research by Best Foot Forward (2011) has shown that typical one-way journey by plane to a ski resort creates around 122 kg of CO2 per person; a car around 240 kg of CO2 (per vehicle), but a journey by train only 12 kg of CO2 per person.

The Clerk sets out below some carbon offsetting schemes from the Carbonfootprint website- “Improved Cookstoves for Social Impact in Ugandan Communities

 Type: Household Cookstoves  Location: Uganda, Africa

Borehole Rehabilitation Project in Uganda  Type: Clean Drinking Water  Location: Uganda, Africa

UK Tree Planting + Brazil Reducing Deforestation  Type: Trees and Forestry  Location: UK & Brazil

Turning back to the Report there are many projects that focus on tree planting- “Ovo energy have paired up with conservation volunteers since 2015 to encourage thousands of volunteers and community groups to ‘join in, feel good’ by planting native trees in community green spaces across the UK. This has subsequently led to the creation of the ‘I Dig Trees’ programme, providing free tree packs for community groups to plant in their local green space and opportunities for people to volunteer at organised tree planting events. To date, 728,000 trees have been distributed and planted across the UK.”

The Report states to establish a carbon offset business from scratch requires a minimum of 3 to 5 hectares-obviously ,at present,the Council does not have such a land holding. The Report then considered the issue locally- “All the businesses that we spoke to said that they had some form of a ‘green’ policy. However, few had formal documented sustainable workplace practices, with only one citing a formal written policy. Most businesses that we spoke to demonstrated good awareness and attitudes towards sustainability issues and a range of ethical behaviours were expressed which took various forms such as: • using local suppliers (e.g. food businesses buying where possible from Swansea Market, and Gower butchers, which was about reducing food miles as well as supporting the local economy); • minimising physical waste (e.g. hair dressers using careful measurements for hair colours, shampoo and conditioner to minimise wastage); • reduction of waste from utilities (driven as much, if not more, by cost-savings for metered supplies as it was from an environmental perspective) with several choosing to source their utilities from Bulb because it was a more environmentally-friendly supplier; • ensuring that cleaning products were environmentally friendly; • adopting recyclable packaging, using glass jars, PLA bottles, and brown paper packaging; CLERK’S NOTE Below is an extract from the Bulb website “Simpler, cheaper, greener We've got three values that run through our company like the words in a stick of rock.

Simpler We make energy simpler – so we make your life easier. You can switch to Bulb in 2 minutes. We've got one, simple tariff for all. And you can speak to a human when you have a question. Cheaper We make energy cheaper – so we help you save money. We invest in technology to reduce costs. And we pass savings on to our members. Greener We make energy greener – so we help protect our planet. This isn't about being do-gooders; it's just about doing what makes sense for our environment and future generations.

The Report then identified the Key Issues in involvement with carbon offsetting schemes and which Members may wish to consider- “Key issues Cost Unsurprisingly, given that respondents were all from smaller businesses, cost was the biggest factor with limited availability Trust/credibility Trust was also a key issue and that went beyond knowing that the trees had been planted, that they matured and were looked after to achieve a genuine carbon offset. As important was knowing whether it was the best investment to achieve the desired outcome of carbon reduction – is it better than investing in solar panels on a works building, for example? A lack of information and understanding is a major barrier in generating trust . Credibility of the tree planting provider was important, with many wanting to see the scheme formally registered, which brings with it all the regulation of formal offsetting. Visibility Some would be interested if they could identify the tree and access it – have a plaque or be able to point to where it is and for the surrounding site to reflect the aims of the project and to be well maintained and of ecological benefit. Such interest reflects that for most it was more akin to a donation than a formal offset. In this instance, a local scheme had clear advantages over more impersonal national/international schemes – the ability to point to something locally and say ‘I/we did that’ was clearly of interest and this is clearly a ‘selling point’ for getting local businesses to buy into this kind of scheme. Local focus A local focus was clearly a ‘selling point’ – knowing that funding would go towards a tree being planted locally was a strong incentive for businesses to get involved and linking that with educational activities would further add attraction to funding it. Again, these conversations were more akin to a donation or purchase of something, rather than as a means of offsetting a negative impact on the environment in the formal carbon offsetting sense. Recognition Several of the businesses would want something in return for their payment of a fee for tree planting – offsetting the carbon they had produced was generally not considered enough to warrant the investment. For example, some would want a form of advertisement or acknowledgement showing that they/their business had been involved with the tree planting project. There was also a general sense from all businesses that if trees were planted in reasonably visible/accessible locations it would be an investment in the local environment more generally in the place where they are based and where they and their staff live, and several recognised the wellbeing benefit of this. Tree felling locally Finally, trees and particularly tree felling for development have become prominent and somewhat controversial in local discourse at the time of writing with the removal of many mature trees in local city centre development initiatives driven largely by the public sector, as well as well-publicised removal of ancient trees by developers recently. That has led to some conflict but also some progression in the form of the development of an emerging Tree Forum locally. “

Is Carbon Offsetting naturally acceptable- “The concept of carbon offsetting as a whole is quite controversial as an ecological tool for tackling climate change – there is an argument that it dissuades people from making better use of resources and instead just ‘assuages guilt’ rather than tackling the root causes of the problems of carbon pollution and so measures to encourage this, particularly state sponsored ones, could create as much harm as good (though this debate is by no means resolved). There is an increased focus now (both at a policy/strategy level as well as at a business level) on reducing impact in the first place, rather than offsetting impact.”

Members views are sought generally as to whether, in principle,the Town Council could be in involved in joining a form of carbon offsetting scheme and/or adapt any working practices.Possible example of a suitable scheme might include a donation towards or sponsoring tree planting locally. The Clerk has requested further information from Swansea Council as to whether there are local tree planting schemes and the costs involved and sets out below the response-

“I have spoken to the team and they have come back with the following:

Coed Cymru- http://coed.cymru/index.html

Swansea tree Forum- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2439390016097430/

Woodland trust- https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/about-us/where-we-work/wales/

Coeden fach- https://coedenfach.org.uk/

For further information the Clerk sets out below an extract from the Woodland Trust website-

“What you can dedicate

 Individual trees  Woodland areas  New benches  Pre-installed benches  New marker posts  Simply tell us the reason for your dedication, then select a wood and how you would like to dedicate - from single trees, to larger areas of woodland with personalised benches and marker posts

What you’ll receive

To say thanks for your dedication, we’ll send a dedications pack comprising:

 A certificate personalised with your own special message.  Information about the chosen wood and a map to help you find the dedicated area.”

Finally an extract from Coeden Fach “Coeden Fach is currently carrying out a feasibility study to consider the financial viability of a community led carbon offset project. We are hoping to relaunch ourselves as a carbon offsetting CIC, offering individuals and businesses the chance to begin to offset their carbon emissions through tree planting. We will remain a community, not for profit organisation growing local provenance trees and working with volunteers.”

4-RE-CYCLING Members requested details of the current re-cycling processes utilised at the Welfare Hall.The Council have an ongoing contract with Swansea Council for the collection of trade waste from the Welfare Hall-the collection is weekly from a wheelie bin and it is a general collection ie black bag.The last invoice from Swansea Council covered the period 1st April 2019 to the 30th September 2019 and was for the sum of £364.00. The Caretaker reports- 1- there is very little re-cycling at present in respect of any waste generated by the use of the Welfare Hall 2-the Caretaker and some Members do place cans and bottles into green bags on eg the occasion of the Council’s Annual Dinner.The Caretaker would then take such green bags back to his private address for collection or place them with other green bags at neighbouring properties to the Welfare Hall 3-there is not a large amount of waste being generated,at present,by the users of the Hall;the greatest amount of waste is produced by Welsh Wood Crafts in the form of sawdust,which,although may be capable of re-cycling is now routinely placed into black bags 4-a noticeable amount of litter is generated outside the hall by passers by and particularly students;the caretaker routinely collects such rubbish and places it in the Council’s wheelie bin Members may wish to speak to the Caretaker directly concerning these matters.

Going forward- 1-the Council could eg introduce re-cycling containers in the Hall perhaps similar to those utilised by the University at their Singleton Campus 2-examine the possibility of re placing the existing use of polystyrene cups . Like many plastics, polystyrene is slow to biodegrade. In the UK, it will likely not be recycled if you include it in with other recyclable plastics.

Are there alternatives? The Clerk has completed some initial research- “PLA lined paper is the most sustainable option. PLA stands for polylactic acid and is a resin made from corn starch. PLA is used to make clear compostable containers. It is also used as an impermeable liner in paper cups and containers to keep the paper from getting soggy. PLA lined paper is suitable for hot and cold cups or containers.

It can withstand temperatures between 32 and 185 degrees Fahrenheit before distortion.

Advantages-PLA lined paper is made from paperboard that is lined with polylactic acid, a resin generated from plants rather than petroleum.

The plant-based resin acts as a barrier which prevents the paper part of the cup from absorbing the liquid and becoming soggy or leaking. Disadvantages-PLA lined paper has poor heat transfer, causing the exterior of the container to become hot to the touch.

It is compostable at the end of its life.

It can be expensive”

The Clerk will investigate further with the Council’s current suppliers and may be able to give a verbal update at the Meeting. A simpler alternative may possibly be to utilise the Council’s existing stock of china cups for Meetings and Events .

3-The Council may be able to re negotiate its existing trade waste contract with Swansea Council so as to include re-cycling collection.The Clerk has contacted Swansea Council and received the following reply- “Nigel You currently pay for 1 x 360 litre non-recycling waste bin @ £14.00 per fortnight.

Depending on the volumes of recycling we can offer;

360L glass/can bin @ £2.75 per week. Flat packed cardboard – no charge (weekly) Paper - £7.00 per roll of 20 bags (weekly collection)

We do not have any other businesses in Woodlands Road, so if you only have small volumes I’d suggest you put the items in green bags and recycle as per the neighbouring houses.

We do not have a plastics collection round for commercial plastics, so again would suggest you utilise the household pink bag system.

Hope this helps.

Regards,

Nigel Fletcher Commercial Waste & Recycling Officer / Gwasanethau Gwastraff Masnachol City & County of Swansea / Dinas a Sir Abertawe. ( 01792 761761 * [email protected]

4-Do Members wish to approach Swansea Council to install more litter bins in Woodlands Road(possibly on the pavement outside the Welfare Hall?) so as to reduce street litter?

5-It may be possible to work with other public bodies to eg create pressure groups. Members views are sought generally on this issue. The Clerk sets out below an extract from Pennard Community Council’s website- “ As most of the ideas put forward on the Vocaleyes Platform have been of an environmental nature. This has given the Community Council the impetus to declare a Climate Emergency for Pennard Ward. During the next six months we will be seeking advice and working with the Community to produce a plan for a carbon zero future for Pennard. If you are interested in helping us achieve these goals, we would love to hear from you. Our vision is to include all demographics within the Community. The motion agreed unanimously by the recent meeting of the Full Community Council was:

Pennard Community Council will: 1. Declare a ‘Climate Emergency’ 2. Launch an inclusive consultation to develop an action plan over the next 6 months to: • make Pennard net-zero carbon as soon as possible; • increase local resilience to climate impacts; • maximise local benefits of these actions in other sectors such as health, agriculture, transport and the economy; 3. Raise awareness throughout Pennard by forming a working party from within the community. 4. Call on Swansea County Council to join us in declaring a Climate Emergency working toward a carbon neutral future. 5. Call on Wales and UK Government to provide the support and resources to make this possible. 6. Work with other local areas, particularly the community councils and other partners in the Gower Biosphere; 7. Report within six months with the actions the Community can take to address this emergency, for example increasing the energy efficiency of the Community Hall. 8. Discuss with Renew Wales how they might support this process.”

5-BIO DIVERSITY Members may be aware that the Council has a duty,along with all other Town and Community Councils in Wales,to produce a Report prior to the end of 2019 under Section 6 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 on what they have done to maintain and enhance biodiversity in the exercise of their functions. The Clerk sets out below an e mail recently received from OneVoiceWales

“Dear Clerk

As you may be aware public authorities (including Community & Town Councils) are required under the Environment Wales Act 2016 Section 6 to prepare and publish a plan setting out what it proposes to do to comply with the duty to Maintain and Enhance Biodiversity within their current work areas. Caryl Le – Roux, Welsh Government gave a presentation on this subject at the One Voice Wales Innovative Practice Conference on 10th July 2019 when she informed those present that a FAQs, Good Practice Guide and Reporting Guidance would be circulated to Community & Town Councils.

Welsh Government have informed One Voice Wales that the Guidance will be issued shortly but in the meantime, responding to a request from some Councils that wish to begin to prepare their plans, they have provided a copy of FAQs and a draft Reporting Template that will be included with the Reporting Guidance, as an Annex.

Welsh Government advise that the template should not be seen in any way as being prescriptive, as it is just an example of how the report might be compiled and what could be included in it. Every public authority (Community & Town Council) is free to decide how they should report on the duty and although the template will be useful by itself, the guide will provide more detailed information on the reporting framework and will give clarity on the various fields in the template.

Also attached is a copy of Carmarthenshire County Council’s guidance to its Community & Town Councils on how they can meet the duty under Section 6 of the Act referred to in Caryl Le Roux’s presentation”

The Clerk sets out below extracts from the WG presentation-

“Public authorities must seek to maintain and enhance biodiversity in the exercise of functions in relation to Wales, and in so doing promote the resilience of ecosystems, so far as consistent with the proper exercise of those functions.

WG are therefore looking for a proactive approach but taking into account Guidance issued by them

Nature Recovery Action Plan The Duty to Maintain and Enhance Biodiversity -Further detailed information in the Nature Recovery Action Plan for Wales (NRAP) to contribute to reversing the decline of biodiversity in Wales:

–Embed biodiversity into delivery, and raise awareness of its importance Commitments, Sustainability and procurement policies, management plans, community engagement, awareness raising, all functions

–Safeguard special sites and species and improve their management Local nature sites, protected species e.g. bats, great crested newts, birds

–Restore and create habitats Churchyards, play-spaces, village greens

–Tackle key pressures like pollution, and Invasive Non Native species Himalayan balsam bashing, reducing the use of pesticides

–Use and collect biodiversity evidence Citizen science, Local Environment Record Centres

CLERK’S Note Himalayan Balsam is an invasive non-native plant so robust and vigorous that's it's become a real problem in the Lake District, smothering and pushing out other indigenous plants in vast swathes along riverbanks and lakeshores.

Carmarthenshire Council has already issued Guidance to its Councils as follows Can your green space be better - for people and wildlife? Did you • • As Town and Community Councils you have been managing your own land for years and recently more parks and sports grounds have been leased to many of you from the County Council. • As well as managing these sites as important sites for public recreation, there are opportunities within most parks to manage suitable areas for wildlife as well. • For Town and Community Councils the Welsh Government’s Environment (Wales) Act 2016 places a duty upon them to ‘seek to maintain and enhance biodiversity’ when they carry out their functions, including when managing land. • Managing areas for wildlife can provide opportunities for community groups, volunteers and schools to become involved,contributing to their health and well-being. • The healthier Carmarthenshire’s natural environment is, with a variety of habitats and species, the more resilient it will become. The parks and public open space you manage can contribute to this. • Changing the management of your green space does not need to cost extra money, in fact in some cases it may be possible to make a saving. Read on for some suggestions as to how you can do this. Hedgerows are vitally important as they provide food and shelter to many species, including those that need particular help such as dormice and bank voles which use hedges to move around. They are also important habitats for nesting birds. • Can you lay the hedge to improve the structure? • Is there an opportunity to plant/restore a hedgerow - especially if it connects existing habitats? • Manage your hedgerows in the winter months when the woody growth is dormant. All work during the bird nesting season (March to August) should be avoided. • Allowing your hedges to grow for 2-3 years before cutting will provide a plentiful supply of berries for birds over the winter. Berries usually form on 2-year old wood, so aim to cut less than half your hedges each year. • Can you plant more trees? If grassy areas are not regularly used then why not try something else - it could save money in the long run. • If you have to fell a tree, replace it with two or a small group! *tps://publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2016/11/09/green-space-mental-wellbeing-and- sustainable-communities/ Research shows that abundance of both flowers and flower-visiting insects increases significantly with reduced mowing, helping pollinators. Why not experiment and vary the mowing regime in different areas and see what works best for pollinators - and people! • The easiest thing you can do is identify and enhance existing areas that have the capacity to provide a food source and shelter for pollinators. This is often the most cost-effective way as well. • Can you cut some areas less often and cut higher to allow more plants to flower? Grass will grow at a different rate depending on the weather during the growing season but why not delay your first cut until mid-April and then mow to every 5-8 weeks and see what happens? Use signs to explain why you are doing this. Setting the mower blade at a minimum of 50-60mm should allow lowgrowing species like daisies, clover and selfheal to flower. They can keep their heads below the mower or have time to spring up and flower again. • Can you collect up the mowings? This will help encourage more flowering plants in the grass. If your mowing machine cannot collect then for smaller areas can local volunteers help rake it up and create a habitat pile or compost heap? • Are there some areas of grassland where you can let the grass grow long and manage like a hay meadow? Here you would ideally cut the grass in late summer and remove the cut material, helping to make the grassland more flowery. Are there local contractors who could undertake this work or perhaps a local farmer could cut and bale it for the use of the hay? • In some areas you might wish to sow seed mixes that benefit pollinators. Choose these areas carefully. It might be better to manage the habitat that is there already, to encourage the flowers that are already within it. Also choose your seed mix carefully - ensure that the seed or plants that you are introducing are native and preferably from a local source.

You may well have formal areas that you wish to maintain but there are still opportunities to help biodiversity here. • If you have formal areas of planting, flower beds/containers or hanging baskets, select a proportion of plants from pollinator-friendly species of shrubs, annual or perennial plants to provide food for pollinators from spring to autumn. • Pesticides are harmful to pollinators and other invertebrates that help sustain our natural environment and are the food for other wildlife. • You might use herbicides to control weeds and grass. Apart from invasive species is their use really necessary? Could you save money by using less? • Peat usage - there are viable peat-free composts that, if used, will help save our important peat habitats. There are a myriad of opportunities to take positive action. You and your communities know your sites - however small the area there are always options. • Do you know what wildlife lives in or uses your park - are there any important/protected species? If so, how can you enhance the site for them? • For biodiversity projects ‘tidiness’ is not a priority, sometimes just leaving a small area go wild can be beneficial. • Create habitat piles - dead wood and piles of leaves are good for a range of species! • Are there opportunities to erect bat and bird boxes or to build a bug hotel? • Invasive species - It is illegal to allow Japanese knotwood or Himalayan balsam to spread - can you take action to tackle them? • Why not become a ‘Bee Friendly’ community and make Wales a pollinator-friendly country by taking action as part of Welsh Government’s scheme?

Continuing with the presentation “The duty to Plan ‘A public authority must prepare and publish a plan setting out what it proposes to do to comply with the duty.’ This need not be a standalone plan -it can be included in any other plan you are making, and should be proportionate to your activity and functions. It can include: •How biodiversity will be incorporated into policies and strategies; •What initiatives will be introduced to raise awareness within your organisation; •What practical biodiversity programmes will be introduced; •What partnerships will be developed.

The duty to Report ‘A public authority must, before the end of 2019, and before the end of every third year after 2019, publish a report on what it has done to comply with the duty.’ Again, this need not be a standalone report –it can be included in any reporting format. It could include: •Identifying what steps have been taken to consider biodiversity in across your functions; •Identifying practical actions taken on the ground; •Outlining any partnership initiatives on biodiversity have been set up and what they have achieved; •What you have done to help raise awareness of and communicate the importance of biodiversity.

Your s6 plan must be reviewed after publication of the s6 report.

The template produced by the WG so far- Annex 1: Simple Reporting Template

Name of Public Authority Short description of PA & its functions and context in relation to biodiversity (e.g. management of land, influence over land management, or indirect influence through procurement, funding projects, etc) Action carried out to: Monitored by:

-embed biodiversity into decision making & procurement -raise awareness of biodiversity & its importance

-safeguard principal species and habitats -restore & create habitats and resilient ecological networks -tackle negative factors: for e.g. reduce pollution, use nature based solutions, address invasive species -use, improve and share evidence -support capacity, and/or other organisations Key outcomes: use narrative and metrics where possible

Review points, for e.g. enablers and barriers to action, improvements to forward plan How and when will the s6 duty be monitored and the s6 plan reviewed?

What does this mean for Llwchwr Town Council? Welsh Government have informed One Voice Wales that the Guidance will be issued shortly. The Clerk will also be attending a SLCC regional Meeting on the 10th October in which this duty will be discussed. It may therefore be prudent to await the Guidance before the Council produces a definitive Plan but Members views are sought generally in the meantime. Members may also be interested to know that Gorseinon Town Council has produced a Report already and which is set out below “ASSESSMENT OF BIODIVERSITY ACTIONS WITHIN GORSEINON TOWN COUNCIL AREA

Under new Government Biodiversity legislation (Environment Wales Act 2016 Community and Town Councils duty under section 6) the Town Council is required to make an assessment of what actions it is taking to enhance biodiversity within its area, and publish the results. During the latest Financial year 2018/19 the Town Council has funded/delivered the following relevant activities within its area; 1. Continuing its annual programme of wildflower planting on public sites within the Gorseinon/Penyrheol area. 2. Continuing its annual programme of bulb planting on public sites within the Gorseinon/Penyrheol area.(new daffodil planting areas Pontarddulais rd, Penyrheol/ Argyll Gardens), and providing bulbs for resident groups to plant in their grass verges where practical. 3. Continuing its annual programme of providing Summer Hanging baskets / trough baskets and pyramid planters in the main shopping areas , bus station and local parks, as well as subsidising hanging baskets on shopfronts in main shopping areas. 4. Continuing its annual programme of providing Winter Hanging baskets / trough baskets in the main shopping areas and bus station and local parks. 5.Continuining its annual programme of planting tree whips and tree planting in local parks around the town. 6.Responding to planning applications within its administrative area , and ensuring biodiversity interests are promoted where possible on new development sites. 7.Arranging bi monthly litter picks within its area and parks to promote environmental awarenesss within the community. 8.Supporting and promoting the designation and protection of Sites of Special scientific interest and biodiversity within its area ( eg wild flower /orchids areas in Parc Melin Mynach) 9.Funding grass cutting and wild flower areas within local parks (Melin Mynach/Parc Y Werin/Argyll Gardens) 10.Supporting and funding flower planting in the community by local resident groups.(eg Grants to Parc Y Werin committee Assn. for flower areas in park/ floral displays out side community centre) 11.Planting Xmas tree as community festival focus in Argyll gardens.” So taking into account the WG presentation,the Carmarthenshire Guidance and Gorseinon’s Plan what issues might Llwchwr Town Council consider for inclusion in its bio diversity Plan? 1-The Council now pays Swansea Council for a 500 sq.metre medieval carpet of wildflowers at Cwmladron Rounabout 2-The Council also paid Swansea Council £4,927.00 in respect of the Hanging Basket Scheme to include 33 Lamppost brackets 3 base units 13 Troughs 3-The Council does not manage land or parks as such and therefore seemingly some of the advice from Carmarthenshire will not be relevant eg mowing,hedgerows but could possibly consider sponsoring tree planting or other environment Schemes? 4-Are there any matters raised in the Gorseinon Plan which could be adopted by Llwchwr? “

The Clerk now sets out the Minutes with Action Points in Bold “CYNGOR TREF LLWCHWR LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL

Minutes of the meeting of the BUDGET WORKING PARTY SUB_COMMITTEE held on the 1st October 2019

PRESENT: Councillors Will Evans,I.James,C.Phillips,C.Richards and R.Smith

(Welfare Hall, Loughor: 6.15 p.m. – 7.30 p.m.)

1. APPOINTMENT OF CHAIR Councillor Will Evans was appointed Chair.

2. APPOINTMENT OF VICE CHAIR Councillor R.Smith was appointed Vice Chair.

3. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE There was an apology for absence from Councillor J.Bowen.

4. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST There were no declarations of interest.

5. THE REPORT OF THE CLERK Note-the ACTION points referred to below will generally be Recommendations to Full Council a)Terms of Reference The Clerks Report was NOTED and it was RESOLVED that the following paragraph be recommended to Full Council for adoption and as an addition to the Terms of Reference of the Budget Working Party Sub-Committee- “when required to consider any issues or matters relating to or in respect of carbon offsetting,re-cycling and bio-diversity or any other environmental matter which may affect or be the responsibility of the Council.”

Clerk’s Note-this matter was dealt with in the October Town Council Meeting

b)General The following points were discussed- i)all schools are now eco schools;also the two Churches in the area are eco churches The role of the Town Council should be bringing together these elements and publicise what is happening in the Llwchwr area with regard to climate change ACTION-adopt a similar motion in respect of climate change as that adopted by Swansea Council and Pennard Community Council

*Clerk’s Note-the Pennard Community Council Statement is on Page 13 of this Report.Swansea Council debated and adopted a Notice of Motion on Climate Change which is set out below-Members are asked in this Meeting whether they wish to support the Motion(where appropriate) and whether they wish to pursue proactively any issue or item contained therein “Notice of Motion on Climate Emergency This Council notes the recent conclusion of an interim report from scientists on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) that every effort must be made to prevent the continuing average global temperature rise exceeding 1.5C above preindustrial levels. However, such an increase could, with present government policies, be reached as early as 2030, with further increases in the decades thereafter. Such a scale of temperature rise threatens both human civilisation and all other life forms on the planet, with drastic disruption of agriculture, and the loss of terrestrial and marine wildlife habitats. We recognise that throughout the world, already, species of plants and animals are becoming extinct in record numbers; coral reefs, which are fundamental to marine life are dying; small island nations and coastal cities are threatened by sea level rise from the melting of polar ice sheets; the human death toll from adverse weather events – such as excess cold, excess heat, hurricane, flood – is increasing. We note the activism of young people throughout the world, expressing their feeling of disempowerment in this situation and asking the decision-makers of today to take urgent action to protect their futures. We acknowledge that globally, the actions required to address climate change effectively rest with national governments and require international collaboration, but there is still important work that local councils can do. We recognise the recent history of this council in aiming to do its utmost to reduce carbon emissions, enhance biodiversity, and secure a prosperous, low-carbon economy for our region. We are proud of the actions taken by Swansea Council to date which include:  The City & County of Swansea Pension Fund is one of the first Pension Fund’s in the UK to adopt an Environmental, Social & Governance policy which commits the pension fund to reduce its already low exposure to carbon based fossil fuel investments by up to 50% over the next 4 years. In doing so, it accepts that investing in new green energy, infrastructure and socially responsible investments offers the best sustainable financial return for members of the pension fund over the long term. Progress is reported on an annual basis.  Changing 21,053 street lights to LED, reducing CO2 year on year by 2,198,608.49kg.  Delivering an annual Clean Air Roadshow to stimulate public uptake in electric vehicles and promote improving air quality.  Delivering insulation and energy efficiency measures to benefit tenants of our council housing.  Promoting Welsh & UK Government campaigns and programmes to increase energy efficiency amongst private tenants and home owners, reducing fuel poverty and reducing emissions.  Campaigning for the electrification of the railway line from Swansea to London.  Progressing work towards a world-leading Tidal Lagoon, supporting community owned renewable energy schemes, like SCEES, to deliver clean energy and benefit local schools and community buildings.  Working with others nationally to urge Welsh Government to develop electric car charging infrastructure.  Being leaders of good practice in Wales through having Sustainable Development policies and approaches pre-dating the Well-Being of Future Generations Act.  Recently incorporating care for the natural environment into our corporate plan as a new priority, recognizing the hugely important contribution made by the extensive work of our Nature Conservation Team.  Building the first council housing in a generation here in Swansea to Passivhaus standard, and begun building new council housing to a super-energy-efficient “Swansea Standard” that will enable all components to be procured locally and reducing emissions using solar battery storage and air source heat pumps.  Using innovation in construction for flagship projects such as Pentrehafod School, showcasing waste minimization and sustainability.  Winning investment for innovative green technology, such as “Homes as Power Stations”, as part of the City Region Deal.  Continuing to seek opportunities to add to our corporate fleet of Electric Vehicles, which is already the largest in Wales.  Continuing to deliver on our Carbon Reduction strategy: 42% reduction in emissions since our baseline year.  Securing funding for a vast increase in Active Travel (walking and cycling) routes throughout the county and supported Swansea University’s community cycle scheme.  Becoming an Anti-Fracking Local Authority in 2016, having passed a motion to “oppose any unconventional gas development (fracking)” which also committed us to working towards being a fossil fuel free local authority by 2025.  Implementing agile working so that our workforce may reduce unnecessary travel.  Developing local procurement practices to reduce our carbon footprint.  In Education, we are early joiners of the international EcoSchools programmes which encourages schools to promote recycling and reduce energy and water consumption.  Encourage our Foundation Phase learning pupils to learn outdoors ensuring a respect for nature, biodiversity and eco-systems.  At KS4, developing partnerships with our Universities to establish STEM workshops including the impact of climate change. We recognise the importance of working closely with researchers in order to have the latest knowledge and the clearest understanding about what we can do to respond to the urgent need to address climate change. This Council therefore declares climate emergency, and calls upon the government of the United Kingdom to do the same. We commit to: 1. Call upon the UK and Welsh governments to provide us with the necessary powers and resources to ensure Swansea becomes carbon neutral by 2030. 2. Publicise climate emergency and promote a greater awareness of the truth of climate change amongst the local population. 3. Work with relevant experts in research and development to: a. Review our current strategies and action plans for addressing climate change. b. Identify any further policy changes or actions which we could undertake, within the scope of our powers and resources, to meet the challenge of climate emergency. c. Seek the help of local partners such as Swansea University and other research bodies to, within one year, produce a report to share with the community, explaining work already underway and achievements already made, as well as targets for the future. 4. Update on further work undertaken by the Council in this area on an annual basis through the Council Annual Review of Performance Report section on corporate objective - Maintaining and enhancing Swansea's natural resources and biodiversity

Resuming the Minutes ii)St.Michael’s Church had commissioned a Report from Sustainable Communities Wales-an energy audit ACTION-Town Council to commission similar Report and subject to its comments investigate eg feasibility of changing energy supplier to a more environmentally friendly supplier eg Bulb and eg feasibility of insulation and solar panels.

*Clerk’s Note-Members are requested at this Meeting to determine whether they would wish to commission such a Report or not or whether to refer the matter back to the Sub Committee for further deliberation

Resuming the Minutes

c)Carbon Offsetting The Clerks Report was NOTED The following point was discussed- i)the Council could link up with the local Schools to ascertain if there is any scope for a joint initiative to plant trees locally ACTION-contact Schools.

*Clerk’s Note-Members are requested at this Meeting to determine whether they would wish the Clerk,at this stage,to contact the Schools

Resuming the Minutes

d)Re-Cycling The Clerks Report was NOTED The following points were discussed- i)needs to be as much re-cycling as possible in the Welfare Hall ii)investigate possibility of installing different coloured bins/bags,similar to the University for different re-cyclable items iii)phase out polystyrene cups for Council Meetings iv)the work of TerraCycle (Mr. Eileen Bartlett local contact)-schools and churches collect for them v)litter bins outside the Welfare Hall;generally one black and one green for eg cans.There may be a Swansea Council budget for them but noted some bins are abused as people drop off household waste and they are also not vandal proof vi)Swansea Council Park’s Department re cycle poppy wreaths ACTION-investigate feasibility of providing re cycling bags/bins -place Notice in Hall asking Users to re cycle -investigate possibility of collecting eg crisp packets and delivering to Terracycle or eg asking Churches to collect -phase out polystyrene cups(Caretaker’s point-do Members want new mugs rather than existing council cups?) -Councillor R.Smith examine the possibility of monies being available from Swansea Council for external litter bins -Members at Full Council to confirm whether they wish to install litter bins outside the Welfare Hall

*Clerk’s Note-it is suggested that all the above matters be referred back to the Sub Committee for a more detailed consideration of costings,availability and budget

Resuming the Minutes

e)Bio Diversity The Clerks Report was NOTED The following points were discussed- i)are the flowers in the Council’s Hanging Baskets pollinator friendly? ii)the Council does not own eg parkland and therefore there is relatively little scope for it to be involved directly with bio diversity-the Council does however support it with eg wildflower planting and making Grants iii)the sensory gardens at Ty Llwchwr and whether it was possible to have something similar and/or plants likely to attract pollinators in Globe Field iv)possibility of installing bird nesting boxes outside the Welfare Hall ACTION-confirm with Swansea Council whether flowers in Hanging Basket Scheme are pollinator friendly -Members to confirm at a Meeting of Full Council that it be a Condition(where appropriate)of any Grant awarded that the recipient is aware of and complying with its bio diversity duty -the Clerk prepares a Plan as required by Section 6 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 for consideration by the next Meeting of the Sub-Committee and with the intention of its adoption by Full Council at its December Meeting -ask Swansea Council if it is possible to introduce sensory plants and/or Plants likely to attract pollinators into Globe Field

*Clerk’s Note-it is suggested that the Clerk prepares the required Bio Diversity plan and reports same to the Sub Committee but that in respect of all other matters above this Meeting is requested to determine whether it it wishes to impose such a Grant Condition and whether it wishes the Clerk to write to Swansea Council as indicated above

B)National Community Energy Campaign The Clerk has received the following e mail and members are requested as to whether they would wish to formally pass a Motion as indicated and/or support the campaign generally “I am contacting you to ask you to help our campaign for more local, clean energy generation that would benefit local communities. We are a not-for-profit organisation campaigning for the Local Electricity Bill – that we authored – to become law. The Bill is currently supported by a cross-party group of 115 MPs. The Bill aims to solve the current problem whereby local renewable energy generators, such as community energy groups, are unable to sell energy that they generate to local people. This is because of the huge setup and running costs involved in doing so. The Bill would fix this problem by establishing a Right to Local Supply that would make the costs of selling locally generated clean energy proportionate to the scale of the operation. This would benefit the existing community energy groups across the country and, even more excitingly, create the opportunity for huge growth in such groups and other local clean energy providers. If the Bill became law it would be excellent news for Parish and Town Councils that wished to set up their own energy companies to sell locally generated renewable energy to local people, as the set up and running costs involved would be proportionate and thus a fraction of what they are now. The revenues received by such councils could be ploughed back into local emissions reduction schemes and other local services and facilities.

Could you please help by doing the following?

1. Ask Llwchwr Town Council to pass a motion in support of the Local Electricity Bill. A model resolution is below.

2. Sign up to the campaign which you can do here: www.powerforpeople.org.uk/sign-up

Please reply if you would like to ask anything about our campaign.

Yours sincerely Steve Shaw Director Power for People www.powerforpeople.org.uk

Council Draft Resolution

That [insert council’s name]

(i) acknowledges the efforts that this council has made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy;

(ii) recognises that councils can play a central role in creating sustainable communities, particularly through the provision of locally generated renewable electricity;

(iii) further recognises

 that very large financial setup and running costs involved in selling locally generated renewable electricity to local customers result in it being impossible for local renewable electricity generators to do so,

 that making these financial costs proportionate to the scale of a renewable electricity supplier’s operation would create significant opportunities for councils to be providers of locally generated renewable electricity directly to local people, businesses and organisations, and

 that revenues received by councils that became local renewable electricity providers could be used to help fund local greenhouse gas emissions reduction measures and to help improve local services and facilities;

(iv) accordingly resolves to support the Local Electricity Bill, currently supported by a cross-party group of 115 MPs, and which, if made law, would make the setup and running costs of selling renewable electricity to local customers proportionate by establishing a Right to Local Supply; and

(v) further resolves to

 inform the local media of this decision,

 write to local MPs, asking them to support the Bill, and

 write to the organisers of the campaign for the Bill, Power for People, (at 8 Delancey Passage, Camden, London NW1 7NN or [email protected]) expressing its support.

9-EverydayAgeism Campaign The Clerk has received the following e mail and Members are requested as to whether they wish to support the campaign in any way

“Dear Colleague

As the Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, my role is to protect and promote older people’s rights and ensure that action is taken to improve their lives.

Ending ageism and age discrimination, which underpin many of the issues and challenges faced by older people, is a priority, and over the next three years I will be delivering a wide range of work focused on tackling these issues.

Ageism results in older people being treated unfairly and their rights not being respected and upheld, impacting upon their health, well-being, independence and quality of life.

Yet despite its prevalence, ageism and its impact are often overlooked or ignored by society.

This has to change.

That’s why I’m launching a new campaign - #EverydayAgesim - to raise awareness of the scale and impact of the ageism faced by older people every single day, challenge ageism and age discrimination, and empower older people to do the same.

But in order to maximise the impact of the campaign and make sure that the #EverydayAgeism campaign messages reach the widest possible audience, I would be grateful for your help and support.

The campaign will be launched on 22 October, and you can support it in a number of ways:

 Share #EverydayAgeism campaign messages and images via social media  Send me examples of ageism and age discrimination so they can be called out and challenged  Make a pledge stating how you will play your part in challenging and tackling ageism  Get in touch with other ideas for how we can together tackle ageism

To make it as easy as possible for you to support the campaign, please find attached the #EverydayAgeism Campaign Supporter’s Pack, which includes copy for websites, newsletters and social media, along with images and graphics to help bring the key messages to life. The Supporter’s Pack can also be shared with your contacts and networks so they can support the campaign.

You can also find out more about the campaign, and access a range of useful information and resources, at the #EverydayAgeism campaign hub on my website – www.olderpeoplewales.com/everydayageism

Ending ageism and age discrimination benefits everyone so I do hope you are able to lend your support to the campaign so we can work together to change attitudes by demonstrating how widespread ageism is across society and challenging the myths and assumptions about older people that fuel ageism.

Best wishes

Heléna

Heléna Herklots CBE

Older People’s Commissioner for Wales”

The Clerk sets out below a selection from the Supporters Pack “How to contact the Commissioner The Older People’s Commissioner for Wales Cambrian Buildings Mount Stuart Square Cardiff CF10 5FL Phone: 03442 640 670 Email: [email protected] Website: www.olderpeoplewales.com Twitter: @talkolderpeople A key part of our campaign is highlighting and challenging the ageism that older people face every day. To do this, we want you to share examples of ageism you have seen with us. It could be a newspaper article, advert, a post on social media or an image that reinforces negative stereotypes or assumptions about older people. You can share any examples you find with us via Twitter, Facebook or by emailing [email protected]. Please share the source of the example with us, so we are able to contact and challenge them. We can all play a role in challenging and tackling ageism. Visit the #EverydayAgeism hub on the Commissioner’s website (www.olderpeoplewales.com/everydayageism) and make your pledge. Below you’ll find some social media posts that you can use on your social media channels to support the campaign. You’ll find accompanying images in the attached .zip file. You can also share your own social media posts to support the campaign – please use the hashtag #EverydayAgeism in your posts so we can re-tweet / re-post. You can like, retweet and share the Commissioner’s #EverydayAgeism social media posts by keeping an eye on our Twitter accounts (@talkolderpeople / @comisiwnphcymru) and our Facebook page (https://bit.ly/2lX6QLq) Suggested Tweets Ageism underpins many of the issues faced by older people. That’s why we’re pleased to support the Commissioner’s #EverydayAgeism campaign to highlight and challenge the ageism that older people face every day. www.olderpeoplewales.com/everydayageism Ageism not only impacts upon individuals, but also on wider society. That’s why we’re supporting the Commissioner’s #EverydayAgeism campaign to highlight and challenge the ageism that older people face every day. Ageism results in older people being treated unfairly and their rights not being respected and upheld. That’s why we’re supporting the Commissioner’s #EverydayAgeism campaign to highlight and challenge the ageism that older people face every day.

Dated this 25th October,2019 Clerk to the Council

Agenda Item 12

LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL FULL COUNCIL Date 4th November, 2019 Report of the Clerk-Addendum 1-Accounts for Payment The Clerk has received the further following accounts for payment- David Oglivie Engineering-plaque Commemorative Bench £68.34 Stamps £27.26 Laundering of Tableclothes used in Charity Concert £60.00

Dated the 31st October,2019 Clerk to the Council.

Agenda Item 12

LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL Date 4th November ,2019 PLANNING REPORT 1-Planning Applications At the time of writing this Report ,notification has been received of the following Planning applications upon which the observations of the Town Council are requested:- (i) 2019/2245 Upper Loughor - Area 2 44 Pengry Road, Loughor, Swansea, SA4 6PN Mr Craig- Two storey side extension and single storey side/rear extension

Agenda Item 16

LLWCHWR TOWN COUNCIL Date 4th November,2019 FURTHER REPORT OF THE CLERK CONTENTS 1-Payments 2-Receipts and Payments 3-Globe Field 4-Website 5-Dispensation