Minutes:
1. Cllr Philip Bowyer for Placemaking ~ Abergavenny Town Council
Councillor Bowyer expressed his gratitude to all contributors to the Abergavenny plan, including local residents, consultants, and council officers, recognising the collaborative effort over 18 months. He emphasised that the plan was developed through consensus, with Abergavenny Town Council voting unanimously in support, regardless of political divisions. Highlighting key proposals, he mentioned the ambitious idea of diverting the A40 from the town centre but focused on more achievable goals such as improving access to the railway station and exploring advanced bus systems, including hopper and potentially driverless buses, to reduce traffic and pollution during major festivals. He stressed the urgent need to redevelop the Castle Street car park toilet block and shop mobility cabin into a modern hub with accessible toilets and facilities for bicycles. Describing the extensive consultation process, he noted that over 500 people from diverse groups, including those with accessibility needs, businesses, and young people, were involved in shaping the plan. Finally, he suggested that traditional elections alone are insufficient for democracy and advocated for ongoing, innovative consultation methods to strengthen local governance and engage more young people.
2. Cllr Roger Hoggins for Placemaking ~ Monmouth Town Council
Councillor Hoggins thanked members of both Monmouth Town Council and Monmouthshire County Council, as well as officers and consultants, for their collaborative work on the Monmouth Town Placemaking Plan. He noted that the plan has been formally adopted by Monmouth Town Council, recognising its importance for residents, visitors, and businesses in shaping future priorities. He stressed that successful delivery depends on securing funding and highlighted that joint council commitment signals seriousness to potential funders. While acknowledging the extensive consultation process, he anticipated some criticism but emphasised that multiple opportunities for public input were provided. He warned against the plan becoming inactive, urging councils to deliver projects and adapt the plan as circumstances evolve. Finally, he underlined the economic benefits of investing in town centres to support retail and overall county prosperity, encouraging continued commitment to implementing the plan.
3. Bridges Community Centre ~ Steve Pospisil (Vice-Chair of Bridges Trustees)
Mr Pospisil introduced himself as a trustee of Bridges in Monmouth and a chartered accountant, focusing on issues concerning Drybridge House, the charity’s home. He explained that Bridges has invested heavily to restore the property and spends significant funds on maintenance, yet faces challenges due to the council’s policy of market rent leases with only a three-year rental grant guarantee against a 30-year lease. He stated that the absence of a long-term grant commitment exposes Bridges to insolvency risk if the grant is removed or reduced, which trustees cannot legally accept, arguing that this risk is not comparable to normal business practice as Bridges is a charity and cannot operate under such uncertainty. He noted that break clauses create further instability and block access to major funding sources such as the Heritage Lottery Fund, which is essential for repairs and upgrades. Addressing concerns about commercial activities, he clarified that charity law and their constitution ensure a charitable focus and even proposed mechanisms for sharing excess income but had been told these concerns were a “red herring.” He also argued that the council’s financial analysis is flawed, explaining that most reserves are restricted and cannot be used for rent. Finally, he urged the council to turn public statements into meaningful action to secure the long-term future of Bridges and Drybridge House, rather than relying on short-term guarantees.