Agenda and draft minutes

None.

While noting the Chairs announcement the Chair, and Group Leaders took the opportunity to congratulate Monmouthshire residents who were recipients of honours from His Majesty the King earlier this month under the Birthday Honours.

Can you confirm that all concerns related to operations at Tudor Street have fully been considered and that the council remains committed to safeguarding and meeting the needs of users for the long term. 

Can you confirm that all concerns related to operations at Tudor Street have fully been considered and that the council remains committed to safeguarding and meeting the needs of users for the long term.

The response confirmed that all concerns brought to the Council’s attention have been fully considered and discussed with the trustees of the Gathering Community, the independent charity leasing the building from the Council and operating the Empowerment Oasis provision.

Members noted that safeguarding remains of the utmost importance to the Council. It was emphasised that all children, young people and adults have the right to be safe from harm and that any reports of suspected abuse are treated seriously and prioritised for prompt action.

The response further confirmed the Council’s ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of adults with physical or learning disabilities and mental health concerns in line with its statutory duties under the Social Services and Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014, through a range of direct, commissioned and community-based services.

A supplementary question sought clarification on the day-to-day activities of the Gathering Community and associated groups operating from Tudor Street, including Empowerment Oasis and Brighter Days, and the distinctions between them.

In response, it was explained that the Council, in its capacity as landlord, engages periodically with the tenant charity regarding its operations, but does not hold detailed operational or programme information. It was confirmed that further information could be requested and shared with the Mr. Lewis,

The minutes of the meeting of Full Council held on 14^th May 2026 were approved as an accurate record.

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The Deputy Leader presented the report to provide the information set out in 6.1.2 of the motion agreed at the Full Council Meeting dated 22nd January 2026.

That Cabinet bring a report to Full Council setting out: · The current status of previous commitments made by the Council in relation to a bypass/relief road for Chepstow · Available options for funding and progressing the next phase of Transport Appraisal Guidance for a bypass/relief road for Chepstow · A clear timetable for engagement and decision-making with Gloucestershire County Council, Welsh Government and UK Government partners, including elected parliamentary members.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to note the content of the report.

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The Cabinet member for Resources presented the updated Code of Corporate Governance for consideration and to ensure that the Council’s governance framework remains aligned with the CIPFA/SOLACE Delivering Good Governance in Local Government Framework and the 2025 Addendum, thereby supporting the preparation of the Annual Governance Statement (AGS).

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the recommendations that Full Council considers the updated Code of Corporate Governance and approves its adoption as part of the Council’s Constitution.

The Cabinet member for Climate Change and the Environment presented the report to seek financial approval to undertake decarbonisation and energy efficiency works in Monmouthshire County Council buildings using Welsh Government loan funding through the Salix Wales Funding Programme (WFP).

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the recommendations:

To approve the installation of a second phase of energy conservation measures (ECMs) with a combined simple payback of 8 years across multiple MCC buildings at a budget cost of up to £1M, generating net savings to the Council and reducing operational carbon emissions

To fund the installation of the ECMs via a low-interest Salix loan from the WG Wales Funding Programme (WFP) repayable over 10 years from the energy savings generated.

To allocate a capital budget of up to £100,000 to provide a contingency within the total budget cost of the project.

To agree a delegated approval process for future Salix WFP eligible projects as part of the capital programme.

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The Leader presented the Panel Performance Assessment report and the authority’s response to the recommendations.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the recommendations:

To note and accept the findings of the Panel Performance Assessment report attached at appendix

To approve the draft response to the recommendations attached as appendix 2.

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The Cabinet Member for Engagement and Equalities presented the report to seek Councils approval for the proposed refurbishment and reconfiguration of the Fitness Suite and associated first floor areas at Caldicot Leisure Centre, and for the associated funding arrangements to enable the scheme to progress through the UK Leisure Framework, subject to final affordability and cost certainty.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the recommendations:

To approve the proposed refurbishment and reconfiguration of the Fitness Suite and associated first floor areas at Caldicot Leisure Centre, as set out in this report.

To approve the proposed allocation of £300,000 of capital match funding and £301,429 of borrowing to support delivery of the scheme, with borrowing costs to be supported through additional income generated within leisure services.

To approve the progression of the RIBA Stage 4 development work and the proposals set out in this report, including delivery of the refurbishment scheme through the UK Leisure Framework, subject to final affordability and cost certainty.

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The Cabinet Member for Engagement and Equalities presented the report for Council to review the representation of different political groups on the bodies to which the Council makes appointments under Section 15 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the recommendations:

That the Council approves the report as a review under Section 15 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 and to allocate ordinary committees with the numbers as indicated below representing political balance.

This Council requests that Cabinet adopts the Charter for the Rights of Rivers

Rights of our Rivers

The Right to Flow and Perform Natural Functions To maintain its natural course and seasonal rhythms without obstructions or extractions that detrimentally affect ecological function of any part of the river system.

The Right to Biodiversity To good biological health through the existence of balanced, diverse, and viable populations of native species and habitats specific to the Wye and its tributaries.

The Right to Be Free From Pollution To exist in a state of ecological health and not be subject to detrimental levels of known and emerging pollutants that adversely affect the life of the river.

The Right to Be Supported by a Healthy Catchment To flow through environments which support the river as a balanced, sustainable, and resilient aquatic ecosystem.

The Right to Regenerate To recover to full ecological function through natural processes and for this to be supported by intervention, where necessary, to halt the decline in biodiversity and abundance and to increase both over time.

The Right to Representation To be represented and have these intrinsic rights recognised in the determination of matters that directly affect the river’s health now and in the future.

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This Council requests that Cabinet adopts the Charter for the Rights of Rivers Rights of our Rivers:

The Right to Flow and Perform Natural Functions To maintain its natural course and seasonal rhythms without obstructions or extractions that detrimentally affect ecological function of any part of the river system.

The Right to Biodiversity To good biological health through the existence of balanced, diverse, and viable populations of native species and habitats specific to the Wye and its tributaries.

The Right to Be Free from Pollution To exist in a state of ecological health and not be subject to detrimental levels of known and emerging pollutants that adversely affect the life of the river.

The Right to Be Supported by a Healthy Catchment To flow through environments which support the river as a balanced, sustainable, and resilient aquatic ecosystem. The Right to Regenerate To recover to full ecological function through natural processes and for this to be supported by intervention, where necessary, to halt the decline in biodiversity and abundance and to increase both over time.

The Right to Representation To be represented and have these intrinsic rights recognised in the determination of matters that directly affect the river’s health now and in the future.

Seconded by County Councillor Meirion Howells.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the motion.

That this Council note the initial works undertaken by officers to deliver additional outdoor formal sports pitch provision on the land at Knollbury to serve the communities of Magor with Undy. This Council requests that those works are completed urgently so that the proposed planning application can be made for a change of use for recreational purpose in an urgent manner.

Council notes that circa residual £188,000 capital balance held by the council from the S106 agreement relating to the development of land at Vinegar Hill, Undy (Planning Ref: DM/2019/01937) are already largely committed to this development.

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That this Council note the initial works undertaken by officers to deliver additional outdoor formal sports pitch provision on the land at Knollbury to serve the communities of Magor with Undy.

This Council requests that those works are completed urgently so that the proposed planning application can be made for a change of use for recreational purpose in an urgent manner. Council notes that circa residual £188,000 capital balance held by the council from the S106 agreement relating to the development of land at Vinegar Hill, Undy (Planning Ref: DM/2019/01937) are already largely committed to this development.

Seconded by County Councillor Simon Howarth.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the motion.

That this council take all such steps as to ensure urgent compliance with the unilateral undertaking related to the master planned development of 13.8 hectares of land at Rockfield Farm DC 2016/0083 in relation to clause 2.1

“To construct the estate road to be completed up to the site boundary with the adjoining Vinegar Hill prior to the occupation of any unit in phase C1 or C2.”

This Council notes the impact on the wider local road network as a result of the failure to comply with this condition and commits to learning from the matter.

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That this council take all such steps as to ensure urgent compliance with the unilateral undertaking related to the master planned development of 13.8 hectares of land at Rockfield Farm DC 2016/0083 in relation to clause 2.1 “To construct the estate road to be completed up to the site boundary with the adjoining Vinegar Hill prior to the occupation of any unit in phase C1 or C2.”

This Council notes the impact on the wider local road network as a result of the failure to comply with this condition and commits to learning from the matter.

Seconded by County Councillor Simon Howarth.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the motion.

Council notes the considerable impact that the current restrictions on Gilwern Viaduct are having on residents, businesses, public transport, school transport and the wider local economy.

Council also notes the importance of the viaduct as a key transport link for Gilwern, Govilon, Llanelly Hill and the surrounding communities, also recognises the growing concern within the community regarding the lack of certainty around a permanent solution.

Council believes that restoring the viaduct to a condition that safely accommodates all appropriate traffic including HGVS should be made a priority

For the authority.

Council therefor calls upon the Cabinet member for Climate change and the environment to bring forward a report to full council setting out the following:

• A proposed long-term solution for the restoration off Gilwern Viaduct.
• The estimated cost of delivering that solution.
• The funding options available to the council including capital investment, borrowing also external funding opportunities.
• An individual timetable for delivery and any wider economic and community benefits arising from the proposed works.

Council further requests that upon receipt of this report, full council be given the opportunity to consider the options and associated funding arrangements prior to a Cabinet decision

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Council notes the considerable impact that the current restrictions on Gilwern Viaduct are having on residents, businesses, public transport, school transport and the wider local economy.

Council also notes the importance of the viaduct as a key transport link for Gilwern, Govilon, Llanelly Hill and the surrounding communities, also recognises the growing concern within the community regarding the lack of certainty around a permanent solution.

Council believes that restoring the viaduct to a condition that safely accommodates all appropriate traffic including HGVS should be made a priority for the authority.

Council therefore calls upon the Cabinet member for Climate change and the environment to bring forward a report to full council setting out the following:

· A proposed long-term solution for the restoration off Gilwern Viaduct.

· The estimated cost of delivering that solution.

· The funding options available to the council including capital investment, borrowing also external funding opportunities.

· An individual timetable for delivery and any wider economic and community benefits arising from the proposed works.

Council further requests that upon receipt of this report, full council be given the opportunity to consider the options and associated funding arrangements prior to a Cabinet decision

Seconded by County Councillor Fay Bromfield.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the motion.

A4042 Motion

This Council:

• Notes that the A4042 is a strategically important transport corridor linking Abergavenny and northern Monmouthshire with Cwmbran, Newport and key employment, education and healthcare facilities, including The Grange University Hospital.
• Further notes that collisions, road closures and traffic diversions on the A4042 have significant impacts not only on communities along the route, but also on residents across Abergavenny and northern Monmouthshire who rely on the road to access healthcare, including urgent and emergency services at The Grange.
• Recognises the need to improve road safety and pedestrian access along the A4042 for residents and all road users.
• Welcomes the recent opening of the new pedestrian crossing in Goytre and the benefits it will bring to the local community.
• Recognises the strength of local feeling in Llanellen, demonstrated by the recent village meeting attended by more than 100 residents calling for action on road safety, and ongoing concerns about vehicle speeds, collisions and damage to property along the A4042.
• Notes that residents of Llanover successfully led a cross-party Senedd petition calling for a pedestrian crossing, but are still awaiting progress.
• Calls on Monmouthshire County Countil, the Welsh Government, relevant highway authorities and local stakeholders and partners to develop and deliver credible long-term solutions, including appropriate road safety, pedestrian access and traffic calming measures in Llanellen, Llanover and along the wider A4042 corridor.

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A4042 Motion

This Council:

· Notes that the A4042 is a strategically important transport corridor linking Abergavenny and northern Monmouthshire with Cwmbran, Newport and key employment, education and healthcare facilities, including The Grange University Hospital.

· Further notes that collisions, road closures and traffic diversions on the A4042 have significant impacts not only on communities along the route, but also on residents across Abergavenny and northern Monmouthshire who rely on the road to access healthcare, including urgent and emergency services at The Grange.

· Recognises the need to improve road safety and pedestrian access along the A4042 for residents and all road users.

· Welcomes the recent opening of the new pedestrian crossing in Goytre and the benefits it will bring to the local community.

· Recognises the strength of local feeling in Llanellen, demonstrated by the recent village meeting attended by more than 100 residents calling for action on road safety, and ongoing concerns about vehicle speeds, collisions and damage to property along the A4042.

· Notes that residents of Llanover successfully led a cross-party Senedd petition calling for a pedestrian crossing but are still awaiting progress.

· Calls on Monmouthshire County Countil, the Welsh Government, relevant highway authorities and local stakeholders and partners to develop and deliver credible long-term solutions, including appropriate road safety, pedestrian access and traffic calming measure in Llanellen, Llanover and along the wider A4042 corridor.

Seconded by County Councillor Jan Butler.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the motion.

This Council: Notes that the UK’s copper lines are due to be switched off by 31st January 2027. Recognises that many properties in rural Monmouthshire do not have access to Fibre to the Property (FTTP) or a mobile phone signal and are at risk of digital isolation. Calls on Openreach to delay the switch off until such time as all residents can access modern provision.

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This Council: Notes that the UK’s copper lines are due to be switched off by 31st January 2027. Recognises that many properties in rural Monmouthshire do not have access to Fibre to the Property (FTTP) or a mobile phone signal and are at risk of digital isolation. Calls on Openreach to delay the switch off until such time as all residents can access modern provision.

Seconded by County Councillor Rachel Buckler.

Upon being put to a vote Council resolved to accept the motion.

To ask the Cabinet Member, further to my question of 4^th of December, to provide an update on a proposed review of speeding through the village of Llanellen.

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To ask the Cabinet Member, further to my question of 4th of December, to provide an update on a proposed review of speeding through the village of Llanellen.

The Cabinet Member advised that speed monitoring had been undertaken during the previous year. It was confirmed that a meeting would be arranged between the questioner, the Head of Service and representatives from the traffic team to review the collected data and consider any potential options.

In response, Councillor Davies welcomed the update and noted the link between road safety concerns on the Gypsy Lane stretch and the wider issues previously discussed in relation to the A4042. The offer of a meeting was accepted, with a view to discussing the findings further with officers and sharing the outcomes with local residents.

To ask the Leader, further to my motion of 4^th December seeking a fairer funding settlement for Monmouthshire, what representations has she made to the newly elected Welsh Government.

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To ask the Leader, further to my motion of 4th December seeking a fairer funding settlement for Monmouthshire, what representations has she made to the newly elected Welsh Government.

The Leader advised that, following previous discussions and representations, the administration had worked proactively to secure a fairer funding settlement for the current financial year. It was reported that the 4.4% increase from the Welsh Government was higher than anticipated and had enabled the Council to protect services, invest in education and social care, and allocate additional resources towards improving road conditions.

Members noted that engagement with Welsh Government Ministers, including the Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning, had been constructive and ongoing. It was further reported that discussions were taking place regarding a review of the local government funding formula, with the Leader confirming her intention to continue making the case for a more equitable settlement for Monmouthshire.

Councillor Davies welcomed the Leader’s comments but expressed concern that, despite the uplift, Monmouthshire remained at the lower end of funding settlements across Welsh local authorities. The importance of delivering on previous commitments was highlighted, alongside continued support for efforts to improve the Council’s funding position.

The Leader emphasised the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue with both Welsh Government and wider partners. It was noted that reform of the funding formula had been identified as a priority and that progress would require sustained and consistent engagement. The Leader undertook to report back to Council as discussions develop.

To ask the Cabinet Member to confirm how the authority intends to support and promote next year ’s Gwent Urdd Eisteddfod.

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To ask the Cabinet Member to confirm how the authority intends to support and promote next year ’s Gwent Urdd Eisteddfod.

The Cabinet Member welcomed the opportunity to outline the Council’s approach, noting that although the event will be hosted in Newport, it is a regional Eisteddfod (Eisteddfod yr Urdd Bro Wnnion Gwent 2027), with strong cultural links to Monmouthshire.

Members were reminded of the success of the previous Eisteddfod hosted in Abergavenny and the significant cultural and community benefits it provided. It was confirmed that Monmouthshire would play an active role in supporting the event through encouraging participation, volunteering, attendance and promotion across communities.

The Cabinet Member outlined that:

• Schools would play a central role in promoting awareness, encouraging participation in competitions, and embedding Welsh language and cultural learning across the curriculum.
• Community learning services would provide opportunities for wider engagement with Welsh language and culture.
• The Council’s community development and communications teams would promote volunteering, participation and attendance to maximise benefits for residents and local businesses.
•  

It was further noted that the event would support the Council’s Welsh language and cultural strategies and was expected to leave a positive legacy.

As a supplementary Councillor Davies young people from Monmouthshire who had recently participated in Eisteddfod activities and highlighted their role as ambassadors for the county. Support was expressed for continuing to promote Welsh language and cultural participation.

How is the administration communicating with stakeholders, elected members and residents about the Cardiff Capital Region Strategic Development Plan?

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How is the administration communicating with stakeholders, elected members and residents about the Cardiff Capital Region Strategic Development Plan?

The Deputy Leader responded that the preparation of the SDP is a statutory function of the Cardiff Capital Region Corporate Joint Committee (CJC), with responsibility delegated to the Strategic Development Committee comprising Cabinet Members with planning responsibilities from the ten constituent local authorities. It was noted that the plan is at an early stage of development.

Members were advised that the CCR had recently issued a call for candidate sites to inform the potential distribution of development across the region. The Cabinet Member emphasised the importance of engagement with local authorities and communities as the plan progresses, and reiterated the Council’s position that, while regional context is appropriate, decisions regarding site allocations should remain with local authorities. It was also noted that this position would be raised with the Welsh Government.

In a supplementary question, concern was expressed regarding the lack of timely communication to Members, stakeholders and residents at this early stage, particularly in relation to the call for candidate sites.

In response, the Cabinet Member acknowledged that communication to ward Members had not been as timely as it should have been. It was confirmed that a members’ workshop was scheduled to provide further information on the process, and that the issue would be raised with the CCR. The Cabinet Member also reflected on the need for improved local dissemination of information going forward.

Has the new Welsh Government confirmed the commitment of the previous Welsh Government to developing a road link between the M48 and Severn Tunnel Junction railway station?

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Has the new Welsh Government confirmed the commitment of the previous Welsh Government to developing a road link between the M48 and Severn Tunnel Junction railway station?

The Deputy Leader responded with an update regarding proposed transport improvements associated with a new junction on the M48 and a link road serving Rogiet and Severn Tunnel Junction.

The Cabinet Member advised that the previous Welsh Government had included provision within its 2026/27 budget to progress design options for a new M48 junction and associated link road. It was noted that this scheme is intended to provide a bypass for Rogiet, alleviating traffic on local roads, improve access to the motorway network for Severnside residents, reduce congestion in Chepstow, and support wider regional connectivity, including aspirations for a Severnside Parkway.

Members were informed that the new Welsh Government had recently published its supplementary budget and that confirmation was being sought to ensure continued support for the scheme. Whilst no evidence had been identified to suggest a change in commitment, the Council was actively seeking clarification and engaging with the Transport Minister.

In a supplementary question, concern was raised regarding the condition of Station Road, Rogiet, and the potential for increased traffic ahead of the link road being delivered, particularly in light of anticipated enhancements to rail services from Severn Tunnel Junction. It was suggested that priority be given to resurfacing works and consideration of additional road safety measures.

In response, the Cabinet Member acknowledged the anticipated increase in traffic and the challenges this would present for existing infrastructure. It was stated that, whilst the link road would not be in place in the short term, the changing circumstances would be taken into account and given due consideration as part of future planning and prioritisation.

Could the cabinet member please provide update on the site meeting from Church Road and upper Church Road Gilwern.

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Could the cabinet member please provide update on the site meeting from Church Road and upper Church Road Gilwern.

The Cabinet Member responded that Highways Operations are currently reviewing drainage options following a recent site meeting. Members were advised that a significant proportion of the water affecting the highway originates from field runoff, which is difficult to manage within the existing drainage infrastructure. It was further noted that during periods of heavy rainfall, the drainage system may become overwhelmed.

The Cabinet Member highlighted that additional core revenue funding allocated this year for sweeping and vacuuming would provide increased capacity for maintenance activities, helping to improve drainage performance where possible.

It was confirmed that the Head of Service would provide an update to the local Member and residents who attended the site visit, including proposed timescales for any potential works.

In a supplementary question, a request was made for a further site meeting at the earliest opportunity to consider minor works aimed at alleviating flooding impacting properties in the lower part of the area.

In response, it was agreed that the matter would be referred to the flooding team to confirm whether it was being progressed and, if not, to ensure that it was brought to their attention.

Can the Cabinet Member outline what actions have been taken to protect pupils and staff of Chepstow schools; leisure centre staff and users; and local residents from a safeguarding perspective after the activities of the illegal traveller encampment at Chepstow Leisure Centre in March of this year, and what measures will be put in place to ensure that this will not happen again.

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Can the Cabinet Member outline what actions have been taken to protect pupils and staff of Chepstow schools; leisure centre staff and users; and local residents from a safeguarding perspective after the activities of the illegal traveller encampment at Chepstow Leisure Centre in March of this year, and what measures will be put in place to ensure that this will not happen again

The Cabinet Member for Engagement and Equalities responded that following the incidents, officers had reviewed the circumstances and were identifying practical measures to reduce the risk of recurrence. Council services are working collaboratively to explore options, including the potential introduction of physical control measures, while ensuring that any interventions remain appropriate given the operational complexity of the site.

Members noted that the site presents particular challenges, including a one-way system, limited access and egress points, and high volumes of pedestrian and vehicular traffic associated with nearby facilities such as a leisure centre, school, and public transport routes. It was emphasised that any measures must balance security improvements with the need to maintain safety, access, and traffic flow.

It was further reported that, in addition to considering physical changes, a revised internal approach has been implemented, including the establishment of a cross-council response group to enable a coordinated and rapid response to encampments. This approach has already been utilised successfully in responding to a recent encampment.

Members were reminded that the Council must operate within the relevant legal framework, balancing enforcement with safeguarding responsibilities and appropriate processes, with safeguarding concerns treated as a priority.

In a supplementary question, concerns were raised regarding the impact of encampments on staff, residents and site users, and a request was made for consideration of height restriction barriers as a deterrent measure, together with an indicative timescale for implementation.

In response, the Cabinet Member acknowledged the request but advised that, due to the complexity of the site, a range of options is currently being considered, and no specific timeline could be provided at this stage. It was confirmed that further information regarding timescales would be sought and shared when available.

When was the Cabinet Member first aware that the PEDW hearings would need to be postponed because of a failure to comply with Regulation 23 and what steps is the Council now taking to ensure full compliance with the process?

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When was the Cabinet Member first aware that the PEDW hearings would need to be postponed because of a failure to comply with Regulation 23 and what steps is the Council now taking to ensure full compliance with the process?

The Deputy Leader responded that the Council had taken steps to communicate the examination process to residents and stakeholders, including those who had previously engaged in consultation. This included publishing the timetable via a link on the Council’s website, which led to a high level of public engagement and participation in the examination.

However, Members noted that on 29 May 2026, Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDW) advised that the use of a hyperlink alone did not meet the required legal standard, and that the timetable should be published directly on the Council’s website. It was confirmed that this requirement has since been addressed.

The Cabinet Member emphasised that the examination of the RLDP has not been suspended and will proceed as planned, with hearing sessions scheduled to commence on 8 September 2026. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the process remains fair and transparent.

In a supplementary question, concern was raised that the initial approach may undermine public confidence, and a request was made for a review to understand how the issue arose and to ensure lessons are learned.

In response, the Cabinet Member acknowledged the need for a review. It was suggested that this should be considered more broadly across Wales, involving Welsh Government and other local authorities, particularly in relation to guidance on acceptable methods of communication.

Please could the Cabinet Member give an update on the long-awaited Asset Transfer for the MUGA in Raglan to Raglan Community Council?

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Please could the Cabinet Member give an update on the long-awaited Asset Transfer for the MUGA in Raglan to Raglan Community Council?

The Cabinet Member acknowledged that the matter has been longstanding, with the original Cabinet decision dating back to 2017. It was reported that progress had recently been delayed due to changes in legal representation on the part of the Community Council, although this issue had now been resolved with a new appointment.

Members were advised that the Council has responded to the remaining outstanding matters, including issues relating to repair and maintenance responsibilities, electricity recharging arrangements, and formal confirmation of agreement by Raglan Community Council. It was anticipated that, subject to resolution of these matters, a report would be brought forward to Cabinet to approve the transfer.

In a supplementary question, concern was expressed regarding the ongoing delay and the impact on local residents, particularly given the limited availability and condition of community facilities within Raglan. A request was made for a clear and defined timeline for completion of the transfer.

In response, the Cabinet Member acknowledged these concerns and the importance of progressing the matter. It was noted that delivery is dependent on engagement with external parties and not wholly within the Council’s control. However, it was reported that there had been positive developments more recently, including in relation to other local assets, and it was hoped that the transfer could be concluded within the coming year.

What discussions has the Leader had with Cabinet Ministers in the new Welsh Government?

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What discussions has the Leader had with Cabinet Ministers in the new Welsh Government?

The Leader confirmed a commitment to maintaining a constructive and proactive dialogue with the new administration to support and promote Monmouthshire’s priorities. It was reported that correspondence had been sent to the First Minister and all Cabinet Members to offer congratulations and to reinforce the Council’s willingness to work collaboratively. Ongoing engagement was noted, particularly during the initial 100-day period of the new Government.

Members were advised that regular meetings were being held through the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA), and that the Leader continues to represent Monmouthshire in key spokesperson roles, including social services and rural affairs. Meetings have already taken place with the Cabinet Minister for Local Government and Housing, with further engagements scheduled with Ministers responsible for enterprise, connectivity, energy, and rural resilience. Issues raised to date include planning, housing, and local government funding.

In a supplementary question, concern was raised regarding the proposed council tax revaluation scheduled for 2028 and its potential disproportionate impact on Monmouthshire residents. Clarification was sought on discussions with Welsh Government and the likelihood of the proposals proceeding.

In response, the Leader advised that, given the recent establishment of the new Government, this matter had not yet been discussed. However, it was noted that the Council had previously expressed concerns regarding the proposals and had supported the option considered least detrimental to residents. The Leader further advised that the new Government has indicated that all elements of the funding framework are under review, with Ministers signalling an intention to maintain an open and ongoing dialogue with local authorities.

Noted.