News
Council considers moving pupils from Ysgol Dewi Sant
THE COUNTY COUNCIL is considering moving pupils from Ysgol Dewi Sant to other schools in Pembrokeshire after what has been described to councillors as ‘a health and safety issue’ was identified.
The issue, the Herald can confirm, is the presence of asbestos in existing classrooms.
The Council has acted promptly to form a contingency plan to deal with the need to close part of Ysgol Dewi Sant and one of the measures under consideration is decanting students away from the school.
Asbestos, which was used as a cheap fire retardant in the past, is stable in the form usually used in construction.
There is no suggestion either students or teachers at YDS are at risk at the present time. However, when asbestos is broken up, as it would be during renovation work, the particles can be inhaled and cause lethal lung and respiratory diseases in later life.
As the school building will be substantially ‘knocked around’ during planned changes under the Council’s ambitious 21st Century Schools scheme, the Council is considering its options to ensure students and staff are safe during the works.
A spokesperson for the Council told us: ‘Most schools of a similar type and age as Ysgol Dewi Sant tend to have asbestos. This is rigorously monitored, and schools are fully aware of the location and type. Governing bodies hold a school health and safety policy, which specifically covers the management of asbestos.”
The presence of asbestos is not the only consideration for the Council, however. The other matters to be considered are the implications of noise and disruption to pupils during the work programme and lack of sufficient play areas.
The Council told us: ‘We are in very early stages of design with regard to the new 3-16 school in St Davids and Solva.
‘The County Council fully appraises all risks during design stage and refurbishment works in accordance with relevant health and safety guidelines. It will implement safety measures to mitigate against these risks prior to commencement of any project, and in relation to any re-location issues if and when they arise’.
At a meeting of Ysgol Dewi Sant’s governors on Tuesday night (Mar 21), Cabinet member for Education and St Davids County Councillor delivered a prepared statement regarding the County Council’s plans.
Cllr Lloyd told his fellow governors: “As part of its 21st Century Schools Programme, the Council is in the process of developing a scheme which would result in a part redevelopment of the Ysgol Dewi Sant site. A preferred scheme has been identified which would result in the demolition of an existing school block to be replaced by new accommodation; this would result in the rationalisation of capacity identified as part of the original case for change for St David’s, i.e. the removal of surplus places.
“However, in order to carry out the above there is a need to consider how to operate the school during the demolition and construction phases. As you are aware the school occupies a constrained site which offers little flexibility; consequently, the Council is considering various pupil decanting options, including a temporary re-location to another school site.
“In considering such options, the Council is mindful of the need to minimise disruption and to ensure the safety of pupils and staff alike.
“Currently, the Council is discussing the possibility of utilising part of the Tasker Milward school site in Haverfordwest for this purpose – some preliminary discussions are taking place with the Trustees of the Tasker Milward and Picton Trust and the Headteacher. A number of practical issues have been identified and these will need to be resolved before a decision is made. “
Community
Pembrokeshire embraces future with new e-bike scheme
PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL, under the chairmanship of Thomas Baden Tudor, has announced an exciting new initiative aimed at boosting sustainable transportation across the region. The council has introduced a “pay as you go” electric bike (E-Bike) service, now available in Haverfordwest, Fishguard, Goodwick, and Tenby as part of a 12-month trial that commenced on 8th April 2024.
The scheme, managed by Zeus Mobility, features the Zip bikes—electrically powered bicycles designed to make cycling less strenuous and more accessible to a broader demographic. Each location will start with 10 E-Bikes, with plans to increase the fleet to 50 by summer. The service will include three main charging stations and numerous satellite bays for convenient access and returns.
Priced competitively, the E-Bikes can be hired for £3.00 for the first hour, with subsequent time billed at 5p per minute. Daily and weekly rates are also available, offering users more flexibility for longer trips. The bikes are aimed at reducing reliance on motor vehicles, promoting healthier living, and contributing to national decarbonisation targets.
Councillor Tudor tested the new bikes himself, describing the experience as “brilliant fun for the whole family” and encouraging all residents and visitors to give them a try. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the council to offer eco-friendly travel options that align with environmental objectives.
To use the E-Bikes, riders need to download the Zipp Mobility app, which allows for bike unlocking, ride tracking, and payment. The app also provides information on bike locations, parking bays, and cycling routes within the county.
Funded by a £150,000 grant from the Swansea Bay and South West Wales Metro, the project focuses solely on this E-Bike trial, aiming to make Pembrokeshire a leader in sustainable travel. For further details on hiring and operating the E-Bikes, residents can visit the Cycle Pembrokeshire webpage or contact the team directly via email at [email protected].
News
20mph U-turn: Some roads will return to 30mph following public outcry
IN a recent shift in policy, Transport Secretary Ken Skates announced that some roads in Wales will revert to a 30mph speed limit following significant public opposition to the Welsh Government’s £34 million initiative to impose a default 20mph limit. This move addresses the concerns consistently raised by many citizens.
The controversial policy, initially rolled out across Wales under former First Minister Mark Drakeford and his transport minister, Lee Waters, aimed at enhancing road safety. However, it has since faced backlash, illustrated by nearly half a million signatures on a Senedd petition opposing the change.
“We’ve put our hands up to say the guidance has to be corrected,” Skates stated, acknowledging the widespread dissatisfaction with the policy’s implementation. He emphasised the need for targeted 20mph zones, particularly in sensitive areas such as near schools, hospitals, and densely populated housing estates. Yet, he admitted that certain routes should not have been included under the stricter speed limit.
Swansea Council Leader Rob Stewart welcomed the revised approach but highlighted the financial burden of changing road signage, urging the Welsh Government to assist with the expenses. Stewart praised Skates’ “pragmatic approach” and stressed that the government should not impose the financial strain on local councils, which are already facing tough budgetary decisions.
The policy has had its proponents, particularly among cycling groups and safety advocates who argue that the lower speed limits contribute to safer community spaces. Despite this, many have called for a more nuanced application of the speed limits rather than a blanket reduction.
In response to the backlash, Skates is set to present the planned adjustments in a forthcoming statement to the Senedd. The changes will allow local councils the autonomy to restore the 30mph limit where deemed appropriate, potentially affecting up to 10 roads in Swansea alone.
Leaders from other councils, including Huw Thomas of Cardiff, expressed relief over the change. Cardiff, where the majority of roads were already under a 20mph limit, saw a favourable reception of the policy. Nonetheless, the decision to empower local governments has been largely welcomed.
The Welsh Conservatives, through their transport spokesperson Natasha Asghar, have voiced strong opposition to the original policy, criticising its expansive application. Meanwhile, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth called for a more carefully considered implementation, supporting the principle of 20mph zones but criticising their inconsistent enforcement.
Responding to comments made by Ken Skates, Labour’s Cabinet Secretary for Transport on potential changes to the 20mph guidance, Natasha Asghar MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Transport Minister said: “The people of Wales have rightfully taken significant issue with Labour’s 20mph policy and ‘correcting guidance’ will not be enough to ease concerns.
“The Welsh Conservatives are the only the party to have consistently voted against the ridiculous 20mph policy involving 97% of previously 30mph roads and a £9 billion hit to the Welsh economy.
“The Welsh Conservatives want to see this policy scrapped and have given the Labour Government a number of opportunities to vote to do so. A more targeted approach is needed with the support of the Welsh people.”
Community
Miracle pup finds her forever home after heart-wrenching journey
AERIAL, a remarkable six-legged spaniel, has captured hearts worldwide, culminating in her adoption this week. Found abandoned in a Pembrokeshire car park and famously nicknamed after Disney’s Little Mermaid due to her unique condition, Ariel’s journey from despair to joy is nothing short of miraculous.
In September 2023, the then 11-week-old puppy was discovered outside a B&M store in a neglected state. Suffering from severe physical anomalies including two extra hind limbs and an additional vulva, Ariel faced daunting challenges. A subsequent medical examination revealed a more complicated internal scenario: a missing kidney and a malformed pelvis that jeopardised her mobility.
Despite the grim prognosis, Ariel’s plight touched many, leading to a worldwide fundraising campaign that raised approximately £15,000. These funds enabled her to undergo critical surgeries at Langford Vets Small Animal Referral Hospital, Somerset, where surgeons successfully removed the surplus limbs and preserved her four functional ones.
“Both procedures went well, and remarkably, Ariel was walking and eating by the next day,” explained Mikey Lawlor, founder of Greenacres Rescue, where Ariel was rehabilitated. “It was crucial that we avoided any post-operative infections, but she’s been in the best hands,” he added, reflecting on the complexities of her care.
Ariel’s recovery was supported by numerous vet visits, specialised surgeries, and extensive physiotherapy. Her resilience and endearing character garnered media attention globally, from radio and television appearances to newspaper features, highlighting her inspirational battle for a normal life.
“We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Ariel has been officially adopted,” announced a recent post by Greenacres Rescue. “Her journey of transformation from a discarded pup to a beloved family pet has been extraordinary.”
The post also extended a heartfelt thank you to June, Ariel’s dedicated foster mother, whose relentless support was pivotal during the rehabilitation process. “June’s care and energy have been instrumental in Ariel’s recovery,” the rescue centre noted.
Surgeon Aaron Lutchman, who led Ariel’s medical team, remarked on her progress, “She’s bounced back and is a happy little dog. We hope she goes on to lead a fabulous life.”
As Ariel embarks on this new chapter with her adoptive family, her story remains a profound testament to the power of community support and the unwavering spirit of animals overcoming adversity. Greenacres Rescue encapsulates this sentiment in their message, “Ariel is symbolic of everything we stand for—love, hope, and the chance for a new beginning.”
For further updates on Ariel and other rescue stories, follow Greenacres Rescue on their social media platforms.
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