News

Solva: Concern over County Council’s commitment to village school

Published

9 years ago

November 25, 2015

Tom Sinclair

Solva Village hall: Residents attend meeting about the Save Our School campaign

SOLVA COMMUNITY COUNCIL has expressed grave concerns about the Council’s commitment to retain Solva School and the future arrangements for its running and governance.

In a letter addressed specifically to freshly-minted Cabinet member Myles Pepper and St Davids Councillor David Lloyd but sent to all county councillors, the Community Council has laid bare the extent of the arm-twisting tactics to which the IPPG has resorted in order to railroad its proposals through the Extraordinary Meeting scheduled for Thursday (Nov 26)

The letter states that Council Leader Jamie Adams, who is coincidentally also the head of the Council’s 21st Century Schools Project Board has refused a request made by IPPG councillor Lyn Jenkins that changes to Solva School be subject to further clarification. Jamie Adams is said to have told Cllr Jenkins Solva School will close unless the proposal goes through without amendment.

As the Community Council points out, Cllr Adams’s attitude calls the democratic nature of the consultation into question. Regarding Jamie Adams’s dictatorial attitude, the letter continues to say “that any concerns or issues that were unresolved by the consultation would become a matter for the shadow governing body and that neither he nor the Director would respond to our questions”.

A key area for the Community Council is what it regards as its inequitable treatment by the Leader and Head of Education, as funds are ring fenced for development in Saint Davids while Solva School faces being short of space for its Foundation Phase pupils.

The letter reveals that Cllr Adams, on whose authority he has not made clear, has refused to allow Cllr David Lloyd to read a statement from Cllr Lyn Jenkins because Cllr Lloyd is not a member of Jamie Adams loyal band of placement. Cllr Adams has suggested Cllr Myles Pepper read the statement instead.

The Community Council has pointed out that there has been no consultation as to the status of a VA School in Solva. It goes on to suggest that as the proposal is a material change to the school’s status, a further consultation should take place to examine Solva parents’ areas of concern.

The letter concludes by noting the Community Council’s opinion that “the whole process has been brought into disrepute, with the statements made by the leader suggesting that he is in overall control of this issue and that it is bereft of any democratic principle. The council should start again, consider the county as a whole and come up with a plan which, ensures the development of top-class education for everyone in the county, regardless of where they live, their faith or their age!”

As the School will be changing from maintained to Voluntary Aided status, it is not clear whether the Council is aware of, or has chosen to yet again ignore the regulations governing that process published by the Welsh Government.

The relevant section of the compulsory guidance relate that it is not possible for VA, VC or foundation schools with a designated religious character to become a community school through a change of category proposal. Similarly community schools cannot become VA or VC schools with a designated religious character.

Community schools are not permitted to have a religious character and no alteration may be made to a maintained school that changes its designated religious character or causes it to acquire or lose a designated religious character.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

7 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

7 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

7 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!