News

Pavements clutter turning Wales off walking, says Living Streets charity

Published

2 years ago

July 11, 2022

A CHARITY is calling on councils to take action to clear pavements of poorly placed bins, A-boards and excessive signage, which make it difficult for people to walk and wheel their everyday journeys.

It comes as new YouGov research finds that over one in four Welsh people (28%) would want to walk more if their local streets were clutter-free.

The research also revealed the worst offenders for blocking up our pavements, with respondents citing parked cars/ vehicles blocking pavements (64%), bins (39%) and badly-placed lampposts and signs (24%) as the three most common obstructions in Wales.

Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking says that as well as impacting on people’s desire to walk their short journeys instead of driving them, “cluttered pavements also prevent people with wheelchairs, buggies or Guide Dogs from getting around easily and safely.”

The Welsh Government has proposed changes that will allow local authorities to enforce against pavement parking where it is causing an unnecessary obstruction to people on the pavement.

During Living Streets’ #CutTheClutter Week (11-17 July 2022), the charity is calling on councils to implement a series of measures to clear streets of other clutter and make them more accessible, including banning advertising boards (A-boards) on the pavement; putting in place plans and budget to remove excess or unused street furniture; and providing guidance to businesses on using pavement space for outdoor entertainment to ensure at least 1.5m pavement width remains.

Stephen Edwards, Chief Executive, Living Streets said:

“Street clutter clogs up our pavements and makes it hazardous for people to get around. It forces people with wheelchairs and buggies onto the road and into the path of oncoming traffic.

“We need to make sure walking and wheeling are attractive options. Streets cluttered with obstructions fly in the face of that.

“We want councils to take action on these issues to make our streets accessible to all. In return, our streets will become safer, our communities more active, and the air we breathe cleaner.”

Living Streets’ Cut the Clutter campaign is being supported by Guide Dogs, RNIB and Transport for All.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

7 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

21 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

21 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!