News

Ceredigion County Council budget approved for 2024-2025

Published

10 months ago

March 3, 2024

THE 2024-2025 budget for Ceredigion County Council has been approved in a Council meeting held on Thursday, 29 February 2024.

Like all Local Authorities across Wales, Ceredigion County Council continues to face severe financial pressures, where maintaining Council services is proving extremely challenging.

The estimated revenue pressures being faced by the Council for 2024-2025 total some £18m, equivalent to a Ceredigion specific inflation factor of 10%. After allowing for a 2.9% core funding increase from Welsh Government, a budget shortfall of £14m has needed to be found from a combination of budget reductions and Council Tax increase considerations.

Ceredigion County Council’s Budget for 2024-2025 has been set at £193.572m. This results in a Council Tax increase for County Council Services of 10.0%, with a further 1.1% Council Tax increase being required to fully fund a 12% increase in the Fire levy set by Mid and West Wales Fire Authority. The combined 11.1% increase equates to an increase of £172.45 for a Band D property.

75% of the Council’s Budget is now being spent on Through Age Social Care and Wellbeing Services, Schools and Lifelong Learning and Highways and Environmental Services. After allowing for other fixed costs (for example – the Fire Authority Levy and the Council Tax Reduction Scheme), there remains only 14% for all other Council Services. Follow this link to see an infographic titled ‘A snapshot of Ceredigion services’, which summarises our main financial costs: www.ceredigion.gov.uk/resident/news/2024/council-budget-approved-for-2024-2025/

Councillor Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, said: “This has been a difficult budget setting process in what has been a less than adequate settlement from the Welsh Government, below the 3.1% promised. These are not decisions that we want to have to make but are necessary in order to protect frontline services where possible. The outlook for future years is poor and we will have to undertake a fundamental review of the purpose of the Council. In the meantime, we continue to lobby Welsh Government to ensure that Ceredigion gets a fair budget in future years. I am grateful for all the collaboration that has taken place to present this budget, as well as the work between the Council and town and community councils as they take on additional responsibilities.”

Support may be available through our Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction Scheme. Find out more information and if you are eligible here: Housing Benefit and Council Tax Reduction

You can also call Clic Customer Services on 01545 570881 or e-mail [email protected] for help and advice.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

6 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

7 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

13 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”