Latest news with #LangstoneCommunityCouncil

South Wales Argus
09-07-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
'Rumble strips' could be introduced to A48 and Magor Road
Langstone Community Council (LCC) highlighted ongoing safety assessments on the A48 and Magor Road, with the possible introduction of "rumble strips" to enhance safety. Rumble strips help reduce car accidents by providing audible warnings to drivers as they approach areas requiring reduced speed or if leave their current travel lane. The updates were provided by Newport City Council (NCC) councillors Roger Mogford and William Routley. At the meeting, a range of other local issues and community developments were also addressed. The meeting, which took place on Tuesday, June 10, was attended by councillors both in person and online, and was chaired in person. The council also agreed to follow up with NCC regarding potholes and maintenance on Langstone Court Road. Minister Maureen Earle expressed concerns about the current state of the Methodist Chapel in Newport, urging for its continued use as a place of worship. In response, the council agreed to liaise with NCC to review planning permissions and land ownership. Further updates included progress on a city-wide boundary review and investigations into suspected youth-related arson at The Priory. The upcoming Langstonebury school fete was also mentioned. Financial matters discussed included the approval of various payments totalling more than £3,300 for services such as web hosting, audit fees, and ICT support. The internal audit report for 2023/24 was accepted, and new oversight procedures for reserve spending are set to be introduced. A quarterly financial monitoring system was also proposed and accepted, with the first data to be presented in September. The council approved a restructured committee framework, forming a Policy & Finance Committee to oversee finance, grants, and HR, and an Events Committee with sub-working groups for Parks and IT. Members also discussed the clerk's hours and resolved to appoint a payroll administrator. Planning is underway for a community-driven Remembrance Sunday service, and the Events Committee will further explore ideas for a Christmas celebration featuring a male voice choir. Updates on Centenary Park included imminent drainage works requiring a short-term closure, safety concerns over play equipment, and the approval of £11,810 for drainage work awarded to Ulysses due to prior satisfactory performance. The council agreed to begin the development of a Langstone Place Plan, starting with a community audit to assess local needs and services over the summer. Maintenance support for Bethel Cemetery will continue as is, with discussions underway regarding future responsibility and ownership with OHLRA and NCC. Administrative improvements include changes to the presentation of council agendas and minutes to enhance accessibility. Future agendas will include full and condensed versions. Future Full Council meetings are scheduled monthly, with a recess in August and December unless otherwise called by the chair. The next scheduled meeting will be held on July 8, focusing on the annual return.

South Wales Argus
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- South Wales Argus
Newport takes centre stage at road safety conference
The third Rhiannon Jade Smith Road Safety Conference, organised by the Rhiannon Jade Smith Memorial Trust, was co-hosted by Newport East MS John Griffiths and the charity's founder, Dr Julian Smith. The trust was established in memory of Ms Smith, who died in a car crash in 2017 at the age of 21. Dr Smith said: "A big thank you to all who helped organise the third Road Safety Conference in memory of our daughter Rhiannon. "This includes our speakers, John Griffiths, and Langstone Community Council, who provided a grant towards the conference costs." He said the event focused on achieving 'Vision Zero'—the goal of eliminating deaths and serious injuries on UK roads and graduated driving licences, the 20mph zones and hazards towards vulnerable road users. Newport City Council representatives were in attendance, including Councillor Rhian Howells and Councillor Ray Mogford. The recently formed St Julians and Beechwood Community Action Group also took part. Mr Griffiths said: "Road safety is a fundamental issue for every community, not just in Newport but across Wales. "I was proud to support this important conference and the powerful work of the Rhiannon Jade Smith Memorial Trust."