Latest news with #CarmarthenshireCountyCouncil
South Wales Guardian
3 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Guardian
341 applications for 20 Carmarthenshire council scheme
Carmarthenshire County Council received 341 applications for just 20 vacancies during its latest apprenticeship recruitment drive. Cllr Philip Hughes, cabinet member for organisation and workforce, said: "The tremendous interest we have received for our apprenticeship scheme shows the appetite here in Carmarthenshire for young people to embark on a career with an organisation that delivers frontline services. "These posts also show the council's commitment to fostering a bilingual environment where the Welsh language is not only preserved but celebrated and I look forward to seeing the successful candidates flourish in their roles." The apprenticeships span a variety of departments including human resources, finance, libraries, translation, and business support. All positions require either conversational Welsh or a willingness to learn during the programme, with targeted language support provided. The scheme offers on-the-job training, mentorship, and career development, aiming to prepare apprentices with the essential skills and experience to contribute effectively to the council and the wider community. It also supports the council's corporate strategy, which focuses on developing a thriving, inclusive, and prosperous Carmarthenshire.
South Wales Guardian
3 days ago
- Politics
- South Wales Guardian
Carmarthenshire dog control order extended to 2028
The Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in Carmarthenshire, first introduced in 2016, aims to tackle dog fouling and other issues related to irresponsible dog ownership. It will now remain in force until June 2028. Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen, cabinet member for climate change, decarbonisation and sustainability at Carmarthenshire County Council, said: "The majority of dog owners in Carmarthenshire act responsibly and we thank them for playing their part in keeping our communities clean. "We remain disappointed that a minority continue to ignore the rules and allow their dogs to foul in public places or cause nuisance to others. "It's not only unpleasant, but also a risk to public health and spoils the enjoyment of shared spaces for everyone. "This extension of the PSPO reflects our determination to tackle these issues and support the responsible majority. "We all have a role to play in protecting our parks, footpaths, and beaches for current and future generations." The PSPO makes it an offence to fail to clean up after a dog on public land, refuse to put a dog on a lead when directed by an authorised officer, and allow a dog into an enclosed children's play area. Offenders can be issued with a £100 fixed penalty notice, reduced to £50 if paid within 10 days, or face prosecution with a maximum fine of £1,000. Since 2016, the council has received more than 3,400 complaints related to dog fouling and dog control, issued 136 fixed penalty notices, and pursued seven prosecutions for non-payment. The order includes exemptions for people with disabilities and for working dogs. Public support for the PSPO remains strong, with a consultation in late 2024 showing that 98 per cent of respondents supported the requirement to clean up after dogs. In total, 92 per cent backed extending the order for another three years. The council said it will continue to apply a "fair and proportionate approach" to enforcement, especially regarding exemptions for assistance dogs. A formal extension order will now be published, and an updated version of the 2016 order will be made available on the council's website.
South Wales Guardian
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Guardian
Packed programme of summer activities across Carmarthenshire
Carmarthenshire County Council is supporting families with a wide range of events, entertainment and days out as schools prepare to break up. Cllr Hazel Evans, cabinet member for regeneration, leisure, culture and tourism, said: "The county council is proud to lead and support a full and diverse programme of events this summer to help families make the most of the school holidays. "Through the council's own efforts, alongside the dedication of local organisations, venues and community groups, there truly is something for everyone, whether it's affordable days out, outdoor adventures, creative workshops or cultural experiences. "Carmarthenshire is bursting with activities, events and places to explore." The Discover Carmarthenshire website is the main hub for up-to-date listings, covering everything from community festivals to family-friendly attractions. Many events are centred around county council venues and country parks. Pembrey Country Park will host a Junior Ski Camp from July 18 to 23, ranger-led cycle tours on July 21 and August 29, a Junior Summer Camp from August 4 to 9, and the EPIC Family Funday on July 26. A new addition this year is the Cwtchalla Festival on August 16, a family-friendly music event featuring tribute acts, street food, rides and entertainment by the sea. Llyn Llech Owain will offer pond dipping on July 22, survival skills on August 28, and an evening bat and nature walk on August 22. In Pendine, families can visit the Museum of Land Speed and try the nearby Caban Crazy Golf, a new 12-hole adventure course. Actif Leisure Centres will offer pool inflatables, Aqua Boards, Nerf battles, themed activity days and creative sessions throughout the holidays. The popular Actif Club holiday club returns, with half-day and full-day options for working parents. Free swimming sessions for under-16s will be available on selected weekends at Llanelli, Amman Valley and Llandovery Leisure Centres. Libraries across Carmarthenshire will run free, hands-on activities including storytime, LEGO play, crafts and coding clubs. Families can enjoy cycling along Sustrans Routes 4, 437 and 47, or explore historic sites like Carreg Cennen, Dinefwr and Kidwelly Castles.
South Wales Guardian
6 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Guardian
Council says no plans to downgrade Ammanford library
In the past week, there has been speculation among Ammanford residents about Ammanford Public Library becoming a 'self-service' facility without the presence of staff. However, these concerns have been swept aside by the county council, which implies the library will receive an upgrade rather than a downgrade. A spokesperson for Carmarthenshire County Council said: 'There are absolutely no plans to downgrade Ammanford library 'In fact, Carmarthenshire Libraries is exploring plans to enhance Ammanford Library by introducing a digitally integrated service model, in response to public consultation earlier this year. 'These changes aim to strengthen the library's role by combining innovative technology, like self-checkout kiosks, intelligent reservation shelves, and Wi-Fi-enabled printing and scanning, with continued staff support. 'Staff will remain essential, using freed-up time to assist customers needing extra help and to engage with the community. 'The library's core services, and book stock will stay the same. These proposals reflect our commitment to a modern, inclusive, and sustainable service that meets community needs.' Despite claiming staff will remain 'essential' in the library, some locals were under the impression that people would lose their jobs, but the county council has refuted this theory. A spokesperson for the county council continued: 'We can confirm that no one will lose their job as a result of this change, and we are committed to having continued staff presence to support library users at Ammanford. "We are proud of the service that we are providing at Ammanford library and the key role that it plays in supporting users, both young and old. 'We are simply looking to develop a high-quality, accessible and efficient library service, taking advantage of modern technology." Nevertheless, a member of Ammanford Town Council has criticised the county council for making another decision behind 'closed doors.' Ammanford town councillor Anthony Jones said: 'I was totally unaware of this until this week. CCC is taking decisions behind closed doors as with the town hall and town council eviction, which is causing major problems to council business.' Meanwhile, on the Protect Ammanford Library page on Facebook, admin John Driver said: 'Did anyone here participate in this public consultation or even hear about it?' Mr Driver also expressed the importance of the library for hosting story time, book club, school visits, Lego play sessions besides being used by occupational health patients and youth groups.
South Wales Guardian
6 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Guardian
Ammanford, Carmarthen and Llanelli town centre events
In Carmarthenshire, a packed programme of festivals and celebrations is helping to support businesses and bring communities together, including the popular Carmarthen Merlin Festival, Llanelli 80s Festival, and the Ammanford Summer Food Festival. There are more to come including Ammanford Pride. The events are part of Carmarthenshire County Council's strategy to revitalise its town centres by attracting footfall, supporting independent traders, and creating welcoming public spaces. Hazel Evans, cabinet member for regeneration, leisure, culture and tourism at Carmarthenshire County Council, said: "These events play a vital role in our ongoing efforts to bring vibrancy back to our town centres. "Made possible by the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF), which provides targeted funding to town councils and Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) across Carmarthenshire, and with the ongoing support of Carmarthenshire County Council, these events offer a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors alike to come together, enjoy our towns, and support local businesses. "This approach is helping to encourage community spirit and create welcoming, thriving town centres for all to enjoy." With more events still to come, residents and visitors are encouraged to get involved and enjoy what Carmarthenshire has to offer. Upcoming highlights include Carmarthen River Fest on July 19, featuring water-themed activities, food, and entertainment for all ages. On August 2, Ammanford will host its Pride event, organised by Ammanford Town Council, in celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. Llanelli's AugustFest, taking place on August 10, promises a full day of live music, street entertainment, family activities, and more. Organised by Ymlaen Llanelli, it is expected to be one of the summer's biggest attractions. The council said that these events are designed to draw people back into town centres, boost trade, and create a lively atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. Full event listings and updates can be found on the Discover Carmarthenshire website.
