Councillors clash on future of pedestrian scheme

CARDIGAN town councillors remain divided over the future of the town’s extended pavements, which were introduced by Ceredigion County Council during the Covid-19 pandemic as a safety measure.

Calls for the removal of the pavements were made last month, with several members describing them as an unwelcome reminder of lockdowns and social distancing. Councillors said the pavements had served their original purpose and were no longer needed.

However, during Tuesday night’s meeting, Cllr Richard Jones expressed support for keeping the wider pavements, describing them as a benefit to the town.

“I think they are a good thing,” he said. “They make the place look busy and give it a kind of European feel. The time for consultation is over. This was discussed at county council level, and none of our councillors attended.”

Cllr Jones was responding to a letter from former town councillor and disability rights campaigner Morvenna Dorita, who criticised the push to remove the pavement extensions. Ms Dorita, who is a wheelchair user, argued that the changes made the town safer for disabled people.

Her view was not shared by all present. County councillor Sian Maehrlein said there were ongoing concerns from residents about the pavements.

“Word on the street is that most people want these pavements gone,” she said. “Some disabled residents have said that, because the tactile paving hasn’t been pressure-washed, it’s hard to tell the difference between the pavement and the road.

“I believe the town would be better and safer if they were removed. Whatever we decide, half the town will support it and the other half won’t. We’re caught between the devil and the deep blue sea.”

Cllr Nick Bolton also opposed the extensions, suggesting that street furniture from cafés posed more of a hazard.

“These pavements impede people’s right of passage,” he said. “If they were removed, we could fit in more delivery bays on the high street.

“The county council said they’d maintain them and make them safer, but they haven’t spent a bean.”

County councillor Clive Davies reminded members that the county council made the decision to make the pavements permanent in 2022, and any removal would now require a fresh consultation.

He added that, if the town could secure a new street scene grant, there may be scope to improve the overall layout of the high street.

“We could look at bollards to provide better protection for disabled pedestrians,” he suggested.

It was agreed to invite county council officers to visit Cardigan and assess what improvements could be made to the street scene.

West Wales volunteers recognised for efforts to improve river quality

CITIZEN scientists from across West Wales gathered at Cardigan Castle on Thursday (Mar 27) for a conference celebrating their work in monitoring and protecting local rivers.

The West Wales Nutrient Management Board (WWNMB) hosted the event, which brought together volunteers, environmental experts, and partner organisations to discuss the growing impact of community-led water quality initiatives.

Supported by the UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) through the Rural Connectivity Accelerator Project, the conference highlighted the crucial role of improved digital infrastructure in enabling environmental monitoring.

Showcasing science and grassroots action

Attendees took part in hands-on demonstrations showing how water samples are analysed, using the latest techniques to detect pollution and nutrient levels. The event also addressed the limitations of current equipment, highlighting the need for accurate, reliable data collection.

Beyond the technical presentations, the day celebrated the wide range of skills that citizen scientists contribute—from data gathering to public engagement—and explored how their work influences conservation strategies and local policies.

Regional groups unite

Volunteers from across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion—including those involved in Save the Teifi, Achub y Tywi and the Cleddau Project—shared experiences and discussed the shared challenges of river monitoring.

Angela Towler, a dedicated volunteer, said: “Being a citizen scientist is about more than just collecting data—it’s about taking action to protect the places we care about. The conference is an example of how the NMB has helped to give citizen scientists a voice. It’s been an incredible opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about improving our rivers.”

Support for future progress

Councillor Clive Davies, Chair of the Nutrient Management Board and Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, praised the dedication of volunteers.

He said: “It is inspiring to see so many committed individuals working to protect our rivers. Citizen scientists play a vital role in identifying pollution sources and providing the data needed to shape policy. Today’s event highlights the real difference their efforts are making.”

The WWNMB said it will continue to support local groups and encourage new volunteers to join the effort to restore and protect river ecosystems across the region. Their work is backed by the Welsh Government, which has funded several key initiatives in recognition of the importance of preserving the region’s natural heritage.

How to get involved

The Teifi Nutrient Monitoring (TNM) Project is now looking for more volunteers in 2025. Anyone interested in testing water, checking for pollution, and learning more about environmental protection is encouraged to take part.

To explore citizen science data and dashboards, visit:
Teifi Citizen Science Monitoring and Dashboard

The TNM Project is funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund and administered by Ceredigion County Council’s Cynnal y Cardi team in partnership with the WWNMB. It is also supported by the DSIT-funded Rural Connectivity Accelerator Project.

To join the Teifi Nutrient Monitoring Project, email: NMB@carmarthenshire.gov.uk

Miss Finn to take over as Mr Edwards retires

A NEW headteacher has been appointed at Ysgol Bro Gwaun in Fishguard as the school prepares for a change in leadership this September.

Current deputy headteacher, Alana Finn, will step into the role following the retirement of headteacher Paul Edwards at the end of the academic year in July.

Miss Finn, who grew up in Tumble, Carmarthenshire, has worked at the school for 23 years. She began her career at Ysgol Bro Gwaun as a newly qualified teacher after studying Welsh and history at Aberystwyth University, and has since held various management roles before becoming deputy head.

The school’s board of governors confirmed Miss Finn’s appointment after what was described as a “rigorous selection process.”

Miss Finn said she was “honoured and excited” to take on the role.

“This school has such potential,” she said. “I am looking forward to working with the excellent staff, our pupils, families, the governing body, and the wider community.

“I want not just staff but pupils as well to be innovative in their thinking. We are working towards excellence, but excellence has a different meaning for every child. We are telling pupils they can achieve whatever they want, and the school will support them.”

She said the school’s inclusive and nurturing ethos is what makes Ysgol Bro Gwaun special.

“Everybody who comes in says there is a nice feeling about the place. We listen to the voice of the pupils, and every pupil is cared for as an individual. We work as a family here, and I want to continue building on that ethos while also driving standards.”

Miss Finn is well-regarded for her commitment to school improvement, the development of a strong bilingual ethos, and her work on safeguarding and wellbeing.

She said her appointment had been warmly received by the school community.

“So many of the pupils have been coming up to congratulate me,” she said. “It was announced in assembly and then they were all at my door!”

She also paid tribute to her predecessor.

“I want to congratulate Mr Paul Edwards on his achievements at Ysgol Bro Gwaun and I wish him a very well-deserved retirement. I’d also like to thank my family, friends, and the whole school community, past and present, for their continuous support.”

Wendy Raymond, chair of governors, said: “On behalf of the governing body of Ysgol Bro Gwaun, we look forward to supporting and working with Miss Finn and are confident she will be a great leader of our school community in Fishguard and the surrounding area.

“We also extend heartfelt thanks to Mr Edwards for his dedication and outstanding service. We wish him good health and happiness in his retirement.

“As Ysgol Bro Gwaun embarks on this new chapter, the school community is enthusiastic about a future that honours its roots while embracing fresh opportunities for growth and excellence.”