Latest news with #CaerphillyCouncil
Yahoo
04-08-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Glyphosate ‘most effective method' for council's weedkilling
Glyphosate-based herbicides continue to be used for weedkilling, Caerphilly County Borough Council has said. The chemical has drawn controversy in recent years amid allegations about possible carcinogenic effects, which continue to be debated and challenged. In July 2020, a Caerphilly Council officer said the local authority would look at 'suitable alternatives' for weed treatments while using glyphosate. Five years on, a council spokesperson said Caerphilly 'continues to use glyphosate-based herbicides, which remain licensed in the UK until at least December 2026, pending further review'. The spokesperson said roadside weedkilling is conducted by a contractor using 'precision spraying technology'. This is 'currently the most effective method for treating weeds on roads and footpaths', and while 'alternatives exist, they have proven less effective at scale'. The council also uses glyphosate for countryside management, 'but only as a last resort to treat invasive species such as Japanese knotweed, himalayan balsam, and giant hogweed', the spokesperson explained. In 'some cases' it is also used in controlled areas for stump treatment or bracken control 'where other options are unavailable'. The spokesperson said the council 'remains committed to minimising chemical use where possible while maintaining safe and accessible public spaces'. The council also pointed to a 2022 weedkiller study run by Cardiff Council which trialled a 'highly-concentrated' vinegar, and a hot foam treatment, as possible alternatives to glyphosate. Following the study, the council said an independent scientific report concluded glyphosate was 'the most effective and sustainable weed control method currently available'. It was also the 'least expensive product tested and ranked highest for customer satisfaction', Cardiff Council said at the time.
South Wales Argus
04-08-2025
- Health
- South Wales Argus
Glyphosate ‘most effective method' for council's weedkilling
The chemical has drawn controversy in recent years amid allegations about possible carcinogenic effects, which continue to be debated and challenged. In July 2020, a Caerphilly Council officer said the local authority would look at 'suitable alternatives' for weed treatments while using glyphosate. Five years on, a council spokesperson said Caerphilly 'continues to use glyphosate-based herbicides, which remain licensed in the UK until at least December 2026, pending further review'. The spokesperson said roadside weedkilling is conducted by a contractor using 'precision spraying technology'. This is 'currently the most effective method for treating weeds on roads and footpaths', and while 'alternatives exist, they have proven less effective at scale'. The council also uses glyphosate for countryside management, 'but only as a last resort to treat invasive species such as Japanese knotweed, himalayan balsam, and giant hogweed', the spokesperson explained. In 'some cases' it is also used in controlled areas for stump treatment or bracken control 'where other options are unavailable'. The spokesperson said the council 'remains committed to minimising chemical use where possible while maintaining safe and accessible public spaces'. The council also pointed to a 2022 weedkiller study run by Cardiff Council which trialled a 'highly-concentrated' vinegar, and a hot foam treatment, as possible alternatives to glyphosate. Following the study, the council said an independent scientific report concluded glyphosate was 'the most effective and sustainable weed control method currently available'. It was also the 'least expensive product tested and ranked highest for customer satisfaction', Cardiff Council said at the time.
Yahoo
03-08-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Future of heritage site looks brighter as major update issued
A new operator has been identified to run a heritage site in Caerphilly that was mothballed, it has been announced. Grade-I listed manor house Llancaiach Fawr, located near Nelson, was put up for sale in January, following a cost-cutting move by Caerphilly County Borough Council to cease its annual subsidy for the site. The news of a new operator followed a behind-closed-doors meeting held at the local authority's headquarters this week. The council has said that the "future looks bright" for the attraction. The heritage site, described by supporters as the "jewel in the crown" of the borough, has been closed since late 2024. READ MORE: 'Neighbours let kids play in my garden without permission - they won't stop' READ MORE: Map reveals parts of Wales where most sexual offences are reported The council decided to "mothball" the venue, which it was subsidising with £485,000 annually, while a new operator was found. Stay informed on Caerphilly news by signing up to our newsletter here The move proved controversial among supporters of the venue, who branded the decision a "retrograde step" and "tantamount to cultural vandalism". But the council argued an "alternative delivery model" would allow Llancaiach Fawr to continue running "without the need for a £500,000 annual subsidy". "A number of interested parties submitted expressions of interest as part of a formal selection process and the council's cabinet has now approved the preferred bidder, subject to finalising detailed lease agreements," its spokesman said. "The council will update the community with details of the successful bidder and their exciting plans for Llancaiach Fawr in due course," they added.
South Wales Argus
24-07-2025
- Politics
- South Wales Argus
Councillor on Caerphilly asylum seeker spend being unknown
Caerphilly Council is unable to state the amount currently spent, and I am flabbergasted at this especially when Caerphilly CBC state we have 63 housed so far in the borough. Newport City Council is unable to confirm how many are residing within the authority. Submitting an FOI, Cllr Etheridge said: 'I find it unacceptable they have not given me the number of asylum seekers in the county borough of Newport and referred me to the Home Office. "Does each authority interpret the FOI legislation differently, even though they are next door? 'Perhaps they need to be more joined up as Newport and Islwyn are one constituency come the Senedd election ' I think it's disgusting we have hundreds and hundreds of people on the housing register in both boroughs and others seem to take priority over our own residents. This is unacceptable. Cllr George Etheridge, Blackwood
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
New 3G all-weather pitch opens in Caerphilly borough town
The new 3G pitch at Risca Leisure Centre is available to the public in the evenings and on weekends (Image: Caerphilly County Borough Council) A new 3G all-weather pitch has officially opened in Risca. Located at Risca School and Leisure Centre, the facility will serve both Risca Community Comprehensive School students during the day and the wider community in the evenings and on weekends. Advertisement Councillor Chris Morgan, cabinet member for leisure, said: "This development reflects our commitment to providing high-quality, accessible facilities that support both education and lifelong participation in sport. "The 3G pitch enhances our ability to deliver the aims of the sport and active recreation strategy, ensuring that more people can enjoy the benefits of physical activity close to home." The floodlit pitch replaces the previous AstroTurf surface and is designed to accommodate both football and rugby. Its durable artificial surface allows for year-round use by schools, clubs, and community groups. Advertisement The project supports Caerphilly County Borough Council's Sport and Active Recreation Strategy 2019–2029 and forms part of the authority's wider Place Shaping programme. Councillor Carol Andrews, cabinet member for education and communities, said: "This facility is an excellent example of how we can maximise the use of school sites for the benefit of both learners and the wider community. "It is a clear demonstration of our Place Shaping principles in action, creating shared spaces that improve education, health, and community wellbeing." The pitch was funded through the Welsh Government's Community Focused Schools capital grant programme. Advertisement It is part of a broader investment in modern, accessible sports infrastructure across the borough. The 3G surface is designed to handle frequent use and provide a safe environment for a range of sports and activities. Bookings for the facility are now being taken in line with the council's pitch allocation policy. For more information or to check availability, contact Risca Leisure Centre at lcrisca@ or call 01633 600940.
