THE number of people visiting their doctor with fears over swine flu in Flintshire has rocketed by more than 140 times in a month, the Leader can reveal.
The figures come amid speculation that schools could be forced to remain closed after the summer holidays, although at the moment that is being viewed as a ‘last resort’ in the county.
Figures released by the National Public Health Service (NPHS) for Wales show that an average of 145 people in Flintshire have consulted their GP about the virus in the past week, compared to just one at the end of the first week in June.
Dr Roland Salmon, director of NPHS Wales’ Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre, said: “The rise in numbers of people contacting their GP with flu like symptoms illustrates the spread of the disease across Wales.
“Not everyone however, who has contacted their GP with flu like symptoms will have swine flu and not everyone with swine flu contacts their GP.”
NPHS Wales is monitoring the number of flu consultations being carried out by GPs.Government ministers are also being asked to consider keeping schools closed for an extra month after the summer holidays, in order to buy more time for a vaccine to be developed.
A Flintshire Council spokesman said the authority would be following government advice in the autumn.
But Cllr Nigel Steele-Mortimer, the council’s executive member for education, said: “If we were advised to keep schools closed on medical grounds, then that is something we would have to consider, as a last resort.
“I would be very reluctant to interfere with children’s education.
"From what I have heard about the situation so far, I would be inclined to carry on as normal.”
People who think they may have swine flu are being advised not to visit their GP surgery or hospital, but to check their symptoms using the swine flu information line, on 0800 1513513.
Showing posts with label flintshire. Show all posts
Showing posts with label flintshire. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Enya’s garden is set to bloom with Flintshire housing developer
A PRIMARY school pupil’s garden design has bloomed into life at a Flintshire housing development.
Ten-year-old Enya Hughes’s garden design was picked by housebuilder Morris, from a creative selection of entries from pupils at Bryn Coch County Primary School.
Enya was given the chance to see her colourful paper sketch transformed into a reality at the firm’s new housing development, Soughton Park.
As part of her prize, the youngster was also presented with a family ticket for Chester Zoo and a grow-your-own sunflower by Morris sales advisor, Margie Speakman.
Runners-up Demi-Lee Davies and Sarah Atkinson, both 10, also received grow-your-own sunflower kits.
Bryn Coch teacher, Rachel Potter said: “The children have started to take an interest in the local area and are thinking about what outdoor activities are important to families.
“We’re always encouraging the children to be creative and get involved in outdoor projects and this competition was a great opportunity to do both.”
Ten-year-old Enya Hughes’s garden design was picked by housebuilder Morris, from a creative selection of entries from pupils at Bryn Coch County Primary School.
Enya was given the chance to see her colourful paper sketch transformed into a reality at the firm’s new housing development, Soughton Park.
As part of her prize, the youngster was also presented with a family ticket for Chester Zoo and a grow-your-own sunflower by Morris sales advisor, Margie Speakman.
Runners-up Demi-Lee Davies and Sarah Atkinson, both 10, also received grow-your-own sunflower kits.
Bryn Coch teacher, Rachel Potter said: “The children have started to take an interest in the local area and are thinking about what outdoor activities are important to families.
“We’re always encouraging the children to be creative and get involved in outdoor projects and this competition was a great opportunity to do both.”
Last chance to oppose controversial Flintshire development plans
A SIX-WEEK public consultation is being billed as the last chance for residents to oppose a controversial planning blueprint.
Flintshire’s unitary development plan (UDP) governs all major developments in the county until 2015.
Negotiations over the UDP have dragged on for six years, and more than 15,000 representations were made during a year-long public inquiry.
At a recent special meeting at County Hall, councillors approved a final report.Deirdre Burrows, Welsh Assembly Government planning inspector, had proposed a series of changes.
She recommended “deleting” at least part of seven sites from the UDP that had previously been earmarked for housing.
These were Alyn Park off Denbigh Road, Mold which is the home of Mold Alex FC, the former cricket pitch in Carmel, Lower Ash Farm in Mancot, land north of Issa Farm in Mynydd Isa, Cae Isa in New Brighton, Ysgol Talfryn in Brynford and the council depot in Dobshill.At the same time, she recommended a number of sites be “allocated” in the plan and earmarked for housing.
These were land west of Ash Lane in Mancot, the Broughton Shopping Park compound site, Overlea Drive in Hawarden and Rose Lane, Mynydd Isa.
A six-week consultation period on the final proposed changes is due to start in September.Hawarden’s Clive Carver was one of several councillors who reluctantly voted to approve the final UDP report while objecting to specific developments in their ward.
Argoed Cllr Hilary McGuill re-iterated her claim that the Rose Lane site was unsuitable for housing, while Caergwrle Cllr Stella Jones said it was unfair that a petition signed by many people only counted as one objection.
Planning officer Andy Roberts said representations were judged on quality, rather than quantity.
Cllr Carver, who lives on Overlea Drive, is against the Hawarden site being earmarked for housing.
He said: “I suppose this is effectively the last chance for changes and objections.“The problem is, we have to find new and compelling evidence.”
Flintshire’s unitary development plan (UDP) governs all major developments in the county until 2015.
Negotiations over the UDP have dragged on for six years, and more than 15,000 representations were made during a year-long public inquiry.
At a recent special meeting at County Hall, councillors approved a final report.Deirdre Burrows, Welsh Assembly Government planning inspector, had proposed a series of changes.
She recommended “deleting” at least part of seven sites from the UDP that had previously been earmarked for housing.
These were Alyn Park off Denbigh Road, Mold which is the home of Mold Alex FC, the former cricket pitch in Carmel, Lower Ash Farm in Mancot, land north of Issa Farm in Mynydd Isa, Cae Isa in New Brighton, Ysgol Talfryn in Brynford and the council depot in Dobshill.At the same time, she recommended a number of sites be “allocated” in the plan and earmarked for housing.
These were land west of Ash Lane in Mancot, the Broughton Shopping Park compound site, Overlea Drive in Hawarden and Rose Lane, Mynydd Isa.
A six-week consultation period on the final proposed changes is due to start in September.Hawarden’s Clive Carver was one of several councillors who reluctantly voted to approve the final UDP report while objecting to specific developments in their ward.
Argoed Cllr Hilary McGuill re-iterated her claim that the Rose Lane site was unsuitable for housing, while Caergwrle Cllr Stella Jones said it was unfair that a petition signed by many people only counted as one objection.
Planning officer Andy Roberts said representations were judged on quality, rather than quantity.
Cllr Carver, who lives on Overlea Drive, is against the Hawarden site being earmarked for housing.
He said: “I suppose this is effectively the last chance for changes and objections.“The problem is, we have to find new and compelling evidence.”
Motorcyclist injured in A548 lorry crash
A MOTORCYCLIST was rushed to hospital after a collision with a lorry in Deeside.
Emergency crews were called to the accident scene on the A548 Shotwick Road at around lunchtime yesterday.
One lane was closed on Shotwick Road, while paramedics treated the motorcyclist.
The man, believed to be in his forties, was later taken to the Countess of Chester hospital for urgent medical treatment.
A spokesman from Welsh Ambulance Service said the motorcyclist suffered an ankle injury to his left foot as a result of the accident.
Emergency crews were called to the accident scene on the A548 Shotwick Road at around lunchtime yesterday.
One lane was closed on Shotwick Road, while paramedics treated the motorcyclist.
The man, believed to be in his forties, was later taken to the Countess of Chester hospital for urgent medical treatment.
A spokesman from Welsh Ambulance Service said the motorcyclist suffered an ankle injury to his left foot as a result of the accident.
Fury as taxpayers foot the bill for huge clean-up at illegal travellers’ camp in Flintshire
By Kate Forrester
FURIOUS community leaders say taxpayers will have to foot the bill for the “horrendous mess” left on an industrial estate by travellers.
Flint councillors Ian Roberts and Alex Aldridge say they are appalled at the amount of rubbish that was discarded on Castle Park Industrial Estate, where travellers set up camp last week.
The caravans were set up near the newly-established Dee cycle path, at the back of the park, for several days and Flintshire Council was forced to apply for a court order to move the travellers on.
Cllr Aldridge said: “They have left now, but the mess that has been left behind was absolutely horrendous.
“We are often told we have a moral duty to help travellers, but my moral duty is to the taxpayers of Flintshire, the people I represent and the Flintshire Council workers have had to clear up the mess.
“Millions of pounds has been spent on Castle Park and the footpath along the River Dee next to it, to turn it into a nice place for residents to walk and enjoy the scenery.
“For this amount of mess to be dumped not 300 yards from the public walkway is absolutely disgraceful.”
Cllr Roberts said: “I find it absolutely astonishing that these people can leave a site in such a disgusting, unsanitary condition.
“It shows complete contempt for the local community.“There are old matresses left behind and nappies and used toilet paper in trees.
“It has been dumped on the bank leading down towards the river and if it floods, I’m sure the Environment Agency will be very concerned.”
The pair are now calling on Flintshire Council to prosecute those responsible for leaving the rubbish.
He added: “I am delighted with the response from council workers in clearing up the site, but there are laws in place in this county, set by Flintshire Council, on flytipping.
“No taxpayer would be able to dump their rubbish somewhere without being fined, rightfully so.
“The council must seek to prosecute the people responsible for the mess on Castle Park. If we turn a blind eye to this, then the law is unfair.”
The surface debris has been removed, and Andy Macbeth, Flintshire Council’s environmental services manager, said a clean-up operation is currently under way, but it is too early to estimate the cost of it.
He added: “Sandstone blocks are set to be installed on the site to make it more secure.”
FURIOUS community leaders say taxpayers will have to foot the bill for the “horrendous mess” left on an industrial estate by travellers.
Flint councillors Ian Roberts and Alex Aldridge say they are appalled at the amount of rubbish that was discarded on Castle Park Industrial Estate, where travellers set up camp last week.
The caravans were set up near the newly-established Dee cycle path, at the back of the park, for several days and Flintshire Council was forced to apply for a court order to move the travellers on.
Cllr Aldridge said: “They have left now, but the mess that has been left behind was absolutely horrendous.
“We are often told we have a moral duty to help travellers, but my moral duty is to the taxpayers of Flintshire, the people I represent and the Flintshire Council workers have had to clear up the mess.
“Millions of pounds has been spent on Castle Park and the footpath along the River Dee next to it, to turn it into a nice place for residents to walk and enjoy the scenery.
“For this amount of mess to be dumped not 300 yards from the public walkway is absolutely disgraceful.”
Cllr Roberts said: “I find it absolutely astonishing that these people can leave a site in such a disgusting, unsanitary condition.
“It shows complete contempt for the local community.“There are old matresses left behind and nappies and used toilet paper in trees.
“It has been dumped on the bank leading down towards the river and if it floods, I’m sure the Environment Agency will be very concerned.”
The pair are now calling on Flintshire Council to prosecute those responsible for leaving the rubbish.
He added: “I am delighted with the response from council workers in clearing up the site, but there are laws in place in this county, set by Flintshire Council, on flytipping.
“No taxpayer would be able to dump their rubbish somewhere without being fined, rightfully so.
“The council must seek to prosecute the people responsible for the mess on Castle Park. If we turn a blind eye to this, then the law is unfair.”
The surface debris has been removed, and Andy Macbeth, Flintshire Council’s environmental services manager, said a clean-up operation is currently under way, but it is too early to estimate the cost of it.
He added: “Sandstone blocks are set to be installed on the site to make it more secure.”
Flintshire roadworks 22/07/09
The following roadworks will be in place in Flintshire over the next seven days:
BUCKLEY: Moel View Road will be closed for 24 weeks until Thursday, December 31, due to the installation of a concrete pipe.
CARMEL: There will be temporary traffic lights on Carmel Road while poling works are undertaken on Thursday.
EWLOE: Temporary traffic lights will be put in place outside Pottery Cottages, Ewloe, while Flintshire Council undertake patching works on the road.
EWLOE: There will be temporary traffic lights outside Moorhead, on Aston Hill while a new gas connection is fitted by Wales and West Utilities until Friday.
GWERNYMYNYDD: Swan Lane will be closed until Friday, while Flintshire Council undertake a drainage investigation.
MOSTYN: Traffic lights will be in place outside Borth Villa, Rhewl on Friday, while poling works take place.
PENTRE HALKYN: Traffic lights will be in place near the junction with Bryn Eithin, Pentre Halkyn while Powersystems undertake cabling works there until Friday, July 31.
PENTRE HALKYN: The installation of a new sewer at The Nant, will cause the road to be closed to traffic for two weeks until Friday, July 31.
QUEENSFERRY: Strengthening works to Queensferry flyover bridge will close the westbound carriageway on Wednesday and Thursday from 7.30pm-6am. Lane two on the eastbound carriageway will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday from 7.30pm-6am.
TRELOGAN: Poling works outside Gelli Ucha, to Gelli Road will cause a road to be closed on Friday.
WHITFORD: A road will be closed outside Mertyn Abbot Farm to the junction of Mertyn Downing Lane, Whitford on Thursday, while poling works take place.
BUCKLEY: Moel View Road will be closed for 24 weeks until Thursday, December 31, due to the installation of a concrete pipe.
CARMEL: There will be temporary traffic lights on Carmel Road while poling works are undertaken on Thursday.
EWLOE: Temporary traffic lights will be put in place outside Pottery Cottages, Ewloe, while Flintshire Council undertake patching works on the road.
EWLOE: There will be temporary traffic lights outside Moorhead, on Aston Hill while a new gas connection is fitted by Wales and West Utilities until Friday.
GWERNYMYNYDD: Swan Lane will be closed until Friday, while Flintshire Council undertake a drainage investigation.
MOSTYN: Traffic lights will be in place outside Borth Villa, Rhewl on Friday, while poling works take place.
PENTRE HALKYN: Traffic lights will be in place near the junction with Bryn Eithin, Pentre Halkyn while Powersystems undertake cabling works there until Friday, July 31.
PENTRE HALKYN: The installation of a new sewer at The Nant, will cause the road to be closed to traffic for two weeks until Friday, July 31.
QUEENSFERRY: Strengthening works to Queensferry flyover bridge will close the westbound carriageway on Wednesday and Thursday from 7.30pm-6am. Lane two on the eastbound carriageway will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday from 7.30pm-6am.
TRELOGAN: Poling works outside Gelli Ucha, to Gelli Road will cause a road to be closed on Friday.
WHITFORD: A road will be closed outside Mertyn Abbot Farm to the junction of Mertyn Downing Lane, Whitford on Thursday, while poling works take place.
Employment zone planned for derelict Flintshire ground
By Michael Youds
AMBITIOUS plans to transform derelict land into an employment zone could create up to 300 jobs.
Flintshire Council has submitted a planning application for a major development behind Spencer Industrial Estate, Globe Way, Buckley.
The council-owned land has been going to waste for years, and the plan is to attract new firms to the area by redeveloping the site into a state-of-the-art business park.
Buckley councillor Dennis Hutchinson is confident the project will be a success, despite the recession.
He said: “This scheme is all about job creation.“The access road has been there for some years now, and the idea is to attract interested companies who wish to relocate to the area.
“We’re not talking about heavy industry.
“It’s light industry and low and medium-tech companies that we’re hoping will come along and take up the offer.
“We’re looking for companies to come here with their own proposals and I think ultimately this could eventually create between 200-300 jobs.”
The application for outline planning permission shows the local authority wants to develop 1.8 hectares of land, with a further 2.4 hectares set aside for ‘ecological mitigation’.
Hardings Property Consultants, based in Bangor-on-Dee, is acting as the agent.
Asked about the timing of the project, with unemployment rising steeply in Flintshire, Cllr Hutchinson said: “There is never a perfect time to do something like this, but as far as I’m concerned it’s good to put this in place and then it’s there, ready to use.
“The land, which is adjacent to the Etna heritage park, isn’t conducive to housing – not that there’s a need for more houses.
“It has been earmarked for commercial development.
“No firms have committed to coming here so far, but that’s because we haven’t advertised it properly yet.”
AMBITIOUS plans to transform derelict land into an employment zone could create up to 300 jobs.
Flintshire Council has submitted a planning application for a major development behind Spencer Industrial Estate, Globe Way, Buckley.
The council-owned land has been going to waste for years, and the plan is to attract new firms to the area by redeveloping the site into a state-of-the-art business park.
Buckley councillor Dennis Hutchinson is confident the project will be a success, despite the recession.
He said: “This scheme is all about job creation.“The access road has been there for some years now, and the idea is to attract interested companies who wish to relocate to the area.
“We’re not talking about heavy industry.
“It’s light industry and low and medium-tech companies that we’re hoping will come along and take up the offer.
“We’re looking for companies to come here with their own proposals and I think ultimately this could eventually create between 200-300 jobs.”
The application for outline planning permission shows the local authority wants to develop 1.8 hectares of land, with a further 2.4 hectares set aside for ‘ecological mitigation’.
Hardings Property Consultants, based in Bangor-on-Dee, is acting as the agent.
Asked about the timing of the project, with unemployment rising steeply in Flintshire, Cllr Hutchinson said: “There is never a perfect time to do something like this, but as far as I’m concerned it’s good to put this in place and then it’s there, ready to use.
“The land, which is adjacent to the Etna heritage park, isn’t conducive to housing – not that there’s a need for more houses.
“It has been earmarked for commercial development.
“No firms have committed to coming here so far, but that’s because we haven’t advertised it properly yet.”
Psychic investigations team plan probe at historic Flintshire tower
A PARANORMAL group is planning an investigation at a historic Flintshire site.
Wrexham-based Spirit Quest UK will be looking in to supposed spirit activity at the Tower, near Nercwys.
“The Tower is thought to have been built at the beginning of the 15th century or late 14th century, when it served as a fortification near the border between England and Wales,” said Howard Hughes, Spirit Quest’s UK director of paranormal research.Spirit Quest UK was the first Paranormal Group to investigate the hall, on June 12.
Mr Hughes added: “We had heard rumours of a figure seen on the stairs, the spirit of a woman and other sketchy stories of paranormal activity, but it was really the building’s bloody history and a life-long personal fascination with the building that attracted us to the place.
“There was also the fact that no other paranormal group had ever investigated the place before.”
The team will be going back for a second investigation, on Friday, August 7.To join the team, call 01978 854252 or go to www.spiritquestuk.co.uk.
Wrexham-based Spirit Quest UK will be looking in to supposed spirit activity at the Tower, near Nercwys.
“The Tower is thought to have been built at the beginning of the 15th century or late 14th century, when it served as a fortification near the border between England and Wales,” said Howard Hughes, Spirit Quest’s UK director of paranormal research.Spirit Quest UK was the first Paranormal Group to investigate the hall, on June 12.
Mr Hughes added: “We had heard rumours of a figure seen on the stairs, the spirit of a woman and other sketchy stories of paranormal activity, but it was really the building’s bloody history and a life-long personal fascination with the building that attracted us to the place.
“There was also the fact that no other paranormal group had ever investigated the place before.”
The team will be going back for a second investigation, on Friday, August 7.To join the team, call 01978 854252 or go to www.spiritquestuk.co.uk.
Chance meeting unites Mold and Melbourne penpals
A MAN got an unexpected surprise at a family reunion, when he met his online ‘penpal’ in the flesh.
Ray Roberts, from Mold, had been communicating with Evan Jones, who lives in Melbourne, Australia, by email for several years.
They got in contact with each other through the Clwyd Family History Society mailing list, as both are family history enthusiasts, but had never met in person.
So Ray got the shock of his life at his family’s annual reunion at Cilcain Village Hall last week, when Evan popped his head round the door.
Evan was on holiday and was trying to find out more about his ancestors’ Flintshire roots.
When the pair started chatting, they realised they knew each other.
They started emailing each other through the Clwyd Family History Society mailing listRay said: “I could have fainted.
"We have corresponded and chatted about family history matters for some time.
“I had no idea that Evan and his wife Pauline, whose family originally come from Anglesey, were in the UK. It was lovely to meet them.
“It is such a coincidence that they and I were in Cilcain at the same time.
“We could so easily have missed each other.
"He could have driven off without coming to the village hall, which would have been a great shame.”
Ray has arranged another meeting with Evan, before he and his wife return to Australia.
Ray Roberts, from Mold, had been communicating with Evan Jones, who lives in Melbourne, Australia, by email for several years.
They got in contact with each other through the Clwyd Family History Society mailing list, as both are family history enthusiasts, but had never met in person.
So Ray got the shock of his life at his family’s annual reunion at Cilcain Village Hall last week, when Evan popped his head round the door.
Evan was on holiday and was trying to find out more about his ancestors’ Flintshire roots.
When the pair started chatting, they realised they knew each other.
They started emailing each other through the Clwyd Family History Society mailing listRay said: “I could have fainted.
"We have corresponded and chatted about family history matters for some time.
“I had no idea that Evan and his wife Pauline, whose family originally come from Anglesey, were in the UK. It was lovely to meet them.
“It is such a coincidence that they and I were in Cilcain at the same time.
“We could so easily have missed each other.
"He could have driven off without coming to the village hall, which would have been a great shame.”
Ray has arranged another meeting with Evan, before he and his wife return to Australia.
Hope pupils to take part in Richard Hammond's CBBC TV show
A TRIO of high school pupils are to appear on TV with a top star.
The Castell Alun, Hope pupils are set to take part in Richard Hammond’s Blast Lab.
The three friends will be on the CBBC programme this weekend on Saturday, July 25, when they will be tested on their knowledge of science to compete for prizes.
George Price, 13, from Kinnerton, Shaun May, 13, from Hope, and Edward Spruce, 13, from Kinnerton competed on the show as the team Boom Shacalaca.
They will be going up against The Science Sisters from Dorset.Each programme has a different theme, and this week’s theme is terminal velocity.
The series is set in Top Gear star Hammond’s fictitious underground science laboratory.
The two teams have to impress Richard and the studio audience before going head-to-head for four rounds as they battle to win points and prizes.
The show is broadcast at 8.30am on Saturday, on BBC2.
The Castell Alun, Hope pupils are set to take part in Richard Hammond’s Blast Lab.
The three friends will be on the CBBC programme this weekend on Saturday, July 25, when they will be tested on their knowledge of science to compete for prizes.
George Price, 13, from Kinnerton, Shaun May, 13, from Hope, and Edward Spruce, 13, from Kinnerton competed on the show as the team Boom Shacalaca.
They will be going up against The Science Sisters from Dorset.Each programme has a different theme, and this week’s theme is terminal velocity.
The series is set in Top Gear star Hammond’s fictitious underground science laboratory.
The two teams have to impress Richard and the studio audience before going head-to-head for four rounds as they battle to win points and prizes.
The show is broadcast at 8.30am on Saturday, on BBC2.
Come and have a say on Flintshire policing
POLICE in Connah’s Quay are inviting members of the public to attend meetings to discuss any problems they have.
The first neighbourhood policing panel meeting, which is for the Golftyn and central wards, takes place at 6.30pm on Thursday, August 6 at Connah’s Quay community centre, Tuscan Way.
On Thursday, August 20 a meeting is being held for people in the Wepre and south areas.
It starts at 6.30pm at the civic hall on Wepre Drive.Police community support officer Sian Atkinson said: ”Members of the public can come along and discuss any local issues they have.
“We will be discussing previous action plans and creating new ones.”For more details, telephone PCSO Atkinson on 07854 352 221.
The first neighbourhood policing panel meeting, which is for the Golftyn and central wards, takes place at 6.30pm on Thursday, August 6 at Connah’s Quay community centre, Tuscan Way.
On Thursday, August 20 a meeting is being held for people in the Wepre and south areas.
It starts at 6.30pm at the civic hall on Wepre Drive.Police community support officer Sian Atkinson said: ”Members of the public can come along and discuss any local issues they have.
“We will be discussing previous action plans and creating new ones.”For more details, telephone PCSO Atkinson on 07854 352 221.
No word from retail giant as Broughton store stalls
MARKS and Spencer is staying tight-lipped over claims that long-held plans for a new store at Broughton Shopping Park have been put on the back burner.
Planning permission for a huge expansion of the retail park, including a flagship Marks and Spencer store, was granted in 2006 but three years on there is no sign of the proposals becoming a reality.
At a recent public meeting in Broughton, councillors claimed that the high-street giant was focusing on getting the final go-ahead for a vast new store proposed at the Cheshire Oaks outlet village in Ellesmere Port.
At 195,000 sq ft, the Cheshire Oaks site would be the second largest Marks and Spencer store in the country and would represent the largest investment by the company in a UK store during the last decade.
The Ellesmere Port scheme was given the go-ahead by councillors but was called in by the Government and has been the subject of a public inquiry.
Asked about the plans for Broughton, a Marks and Spencer spokesman would only say: “We remain committed to expanding in the area and we will review our strategy later in the year.”
Former Broughton county councillor Derek Butler told the Evening Leader: “Marks and Spencer seem distracted by the state of the retail market at the public inquiry at Cheshire Oaks.
“In the meantime, people in Broughton are the last to know as usual.”
He added: “What people in Broughton really want is the interchange on the A55 that would divert traffic around the back of village, because the people here are sick of the gridlock.
“But that is unlikely to happen without the Marks and Spencer scheme because the developers would fund the road improvements.“The money has to come from somewhere.”
Planning permission for a huge expansion of the retail park, including a flagship Marks and Spencer store, was granted in 2006 but three years on there is no sign of the proposals becoming a reality.
At a recent public meeting in Broughton, councillors claimed that the high-street giant was focusing on getting the final go-ahead for a vast new store proposed at the Cheshire Oaks outlet village in Ellesmere Port.
At 195,000 sq ft, the Cheshire Oaks site would be the second largest Marks and Spencer store in the country and would represent the largest investment by the company in a UK store during the last decade.
The Ellesmere Port scheme was given the go-ahead by councillors but was called in by the Government and has been the subject of a public inquiry.
Asked about the plans for Broughton, a Marks and Spencer spokesman would only say: “We remain committed to expanding in the area and we will review our strategy later in the year.”
Former Broughton county councillor Derek Butler told the Evening Leader: “Marks and Spencer seem distracted by the state of the retail market at the public inquiry at Cheshire Oaks.
“In the meantime, people in Broughton are the last to know as usual.”
He added: “What people in Broughton really want is the interchange on the A55 that would divert traffic around the back of village, because the people here are sick of the gridlock.
“But that is unlikely to happen without the Marks and Spencer scheme because the developers would fund the road improvements.“The money has to come from somewhere.”
Flintshire bar staff step up security after samurai raid
By Michael Youds
BAR staff working at pubs in the Flint area have spoken of their fears following a terrifying armed robbery which left two people hospitalised.
Police are hunting a trio of armed raiders who burst into the Coach and Horses in Flint Mountain in the early hours of Monday, carrying baseball bats and a samurai sword.
A customer was tied up and threatened with the samurai sword, and the pub manager was beaten badly.
Stuart Bickerton-Starkey, director of Lovely Day Inns which owns the pub, called it a “severe and shocking crime” and said staff have been left devastated.
The company is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the raiders.
The attack has left landlords in the area fearing they could be next.Linda Leigh, landlady at the George and Dragon on Church Street, Flint, said she would be stepping up security measures.
She said: “What happened is disgusting and it does make you think.
“I guess they’ve gone in there thinking they’ll get a lot of money but most pubs now, including us, bank daily and we never have much money on the premises.
“All pubs are struggling at the minute and something like this is just not on.”
One member of staff from a Flint pub, who asked not to be named, said: “It’s pretty worrying.
“It’s not the sort of trouble you expect around here, and the terrifying part is that there isn’t really anything you can do to prepare for it. I just hope it’s a one-off and not part of a new trend.”
Detectives want to hear from a group of customers who left the Coach and Horses just before the raid.
The three robbers were all wearing dark clothes and had most of their faces covered with clothing.
Anyone with information should call Mold CID on 0845 607 1002, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
BAR staff working at pubs in the Flint area have spoken of their fears following a terrifying armed robbery which left two people hospitalised.
Police are hunting a trio of armed raiders who burst into the Coach and Horses in Flint Mountain in the early hours of Monday, carrying baseball bats and a samurai sword.
A customer was tied up and threatened with the samurai sword, and the pub manager was beaten badly.
Stuart Bickerton-Starkey, director of Lovely Day Inns which owns the pub, called it a “severe and shocking crime” and said staff have been left devastated.
The company is offering a cash reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the raiders.
The attack has left landlords in the area fearing they could be next.Linda Leigh, landlady at the George and Dragon on Church Street, Flint, said she would be stepping up security measures.
She said: “What happened is disgusting and it does make you think.
“I guess they’ve gone in there thinking they’ll get a lot of money but most pubs now, including us, bank daily and we never have much money on the premises.
“All pubs are struggling at the minute and something like this is just not on.”
One member of staff from a Flint pub, who asked not to be named, said: “It’s pretty worrying.
“It’s not the sort of trouble you expect around here, and the terrifying part is that there isn’t really anything you can do to prepare for it. I just hope it’s a one-off and not part of a new trend.”
Detectives want to hear from a group of customers who left the Coach and Horses just before the raid.
The three robbers were all wearing dark clothes and had most of their faces covered with clothing.
Anyone with information should call Mold CID on 0845 607 1002, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Saltney boxing club looking to expand after first birthday
A COMMUNITY facility in Saltney is looking to expand as it approaches its first anniversary.
Deva Academy – a registered charity and member of the Young People’s Clubs of Great Britain was set up last September.
Based on the Central Trading Estate, Marley Way, Deva is run by Mark Shepherd, 44, from Connah’s Quay and Dave Evans, 42, of Saltney.
Both are fully qualified coaches.
“We’re a non-profit organisation,” said Dave, a former Manchester United apprentice and Chester City footballer.
“I’m giving something back.
"It’s a community facility. All the money we make goes into a community account via a group of trustees. "
“We started out as a boxing club with a couple of kids, but its snowballed from there.
We’re now trying to get as many organisations as possible to use the facilities.
Any affiliated group or sport that comes under the Olympic banner can come in, but we don’t do mixed martial arts"
In addition to spending £6,000 on new flooring, the academy houses three boxing rings, a dance room, spectators balcony, gym mats, full cardio section and infra red sauna.
Disabled group the Mulberry Centre from Sealand Road and the Chester Goddesses cheerleading squad are among those who have used the facilities.
For more information call 01244 671 288 or visit http://www.devaacademy.co.uk/.
Deva Academy – a registered charity and member of the Young People’s Clubs of Great Britain was set up last September.
Based on the Central Trading Estate, Marley Way, Deva is run by Mark Shepherd, 44, from Connah’s Quay and Dave Evans, 42, of Saltney.
Both are fully qualified coaches.
“We’re a non-profit organisation,” said Dave, a former Manchester United apprentice and Chester City footballer.
“I’m giving something back.
"It’s a community facility. All the money we make goes into a community account via a group of trustees. "
“We started out as a boxing club with a couple of kids, but its snowballed from there.
We’re now trying to get as many organisations as possible to use the facilities.
Any affiliated group or sport that comes under the Olympic banner can come in, but we don’t do mixed martial arts"
In addition to spending £6,000 on new flooring, the academy houses three boxing rings, a dance room, spectators balcony, gym mats, full cardio section and infra red sauna.
Disabled group the Mulberry Centre from Sealand Road and the Chester Goddesses cheerleading squad are among those who have used the facilities.
For more information call 01244 671 288 or visit http://www.devaacademy.co.uk/.
Flintshire community leaders slam 'unrealistic' targets
A MAJOR waste reduction strategy has been heavily criticised by senior community leaders in Flintshire.
Flintshire Council’s executive members say some of the targets in the Welsh Assembly Government’s ‘Wise About Waste’ plans are ‘unrealistic’ and could put too much pressure on local authorities.
The strategy includes specific recycling and waste reduction targets, which the council must meet within a certain time limit if it is to avoid being hit by heavy landfill taxes.
Cllr Nancy Matthews, executive member for waste management, said the food waste recycling target in particular was too high for Flintshire to meet.
She added: “It is completely unrealistic and could have a detrimental effect on the whole process of reducing waste.
“The report does not even take into account or mention the residents of Flintshire and how they are expected to help take the strategy forward.”
The Welsh Assembly Government is currently gathering feedback and comments about the strategy from local authorities, but Carl Longland, the council’s director of environment, said Flintshire’s views did not appear to have been acknowledged.
Flintshire Council’s chief executive, Colin Everett, said lots of people had ‘very strong views’ on the subject and that the council would submit its formal response to the assembly in the near future.
Flintshire Council’s executive members say some of the targets in the Welsh Assembly Government’s ‘Wise About Waste’ plans are ‘unrealistic’ and could put too much pressure on local authorities.
The strategy includes specific recycling and waste reduction targets, which the council must meet within a certain time limit if it is to avoid being hit by heavy landfill taxes.
Cllr Nancy Matthews, executive member for waste management, said the food waste recycling target in particular was too high for Flintshire to meet.
She added: “It is completely unrealistic and could have a detrimental effect on the whole process of reducing waste.
“The report does not even take into account or mention the residents of Flintshire and how they are expected to help take the strategy forward.”
The Welsh Assembly Government is currently gathering feedback and comments about the strategy from local authorities, but Carl Longland, the council’s director of environment, said Flintshire’s views did not appear to have been acknowledged.
Flintshire Council’s chief executive, Colin Everett, said lots of people had ‘very strong views’ on the subject and that the council would submit its formal response to the assembly in the near future.
Flintshire firms come to churchyard's aid
A CHURCHYARD which had fallen into a state of disrepair has been given a new lease of life thanks to local businesses.
When the pathways at St John the Baptist Church, Penymynydd, churchyard became impassable the church struggled to find funding to restore the hazardous paths.
Church warden Andrew Bronnert said: “It is rare for there to be a churchyard still open for burials but the old pathways have made access difficult for people visiting and tending graves.
“The ground has also caused damp in the church building itself.”
Nearby Hanson Cement, formerly Castle Cement, stepped in and donated cash for materials to get the project up and running.
Work started in the grounds of the grade two listed church to replace the paths, improve the drainage and alter the ground to prevent further damage.
As word spread, Marshall Paving, Travis Perkins, Read Construction, AH Plant Hire, Scarfo & Sons and DP Williams all came forward to offer their help.
Vicar, the Rev Paulette Gower held a special service recently to thank the local businesses for their generosity.
When the pathways at St John the Baptist Church, Penymynydd, churchyard became impassable the church struggled to find funding to restore the hazardous paths.
Church warden Andrew Bronnert said: “It is rare for there to be a churchyard still open for burials but the old pathways have made access difficult for people visiting and tending graves.
“The ground has also caused damp in the church building itself.”
Nearby Hanson Cement, formerly Castle Cement, stepped in and donated cash for materials to get the project up and running.
Work started in the grounds of the grade two listed church to replace the paths, improve the drainage and alter the ground to prevent further damage.
As word spread, Marshall Paving, Travis Perkins, Read Construction, AH Plant Hire, Scarfo & Sons and DP Williams all came forward to offer their help.
Vicar, the Rev Paulette Gower held a special service recently to thank the local businesses for their generosity.
Flintshire town gives green light to new homes plan
PLANS to build nearly 60 homes on Saltney High Street have been given the thumbs-up by town leaders.
But Saltney Town Council members have raised concerns over access to the housing development, and are suggesting a one-way system be introduced.
Goldrock Investments Ltd has applied for planning permission to build 58 two-storey homes at 142 high street.
Asked for its observations at a recent meeting, the town council welcomed the application but expressed reservations over access.
Cllr Veronica Gay said: “This could be a godsend because we are desperately short of housing in this area, but my only reservation is that the designs only show one access route for 58 homes.
“This isn’t enough, and I’m concerned it could create a Shotton or Connah’s Quay-type traffic situation on the high street.
“Other than that, I think it’s a fantastic scheme.”
Town clerk Alan Thorniley said: “We are suggesting a one-way access system off the high street.”
The town council’s comments will now be passed to Flintshire Council’s planning department.
Morrisons says it is “hopeful” it will get planning permission for a new 65,000 sq ft supermarket on Saltney high street later this month.
The store would be based on the site of the old GT Owen and Bramall Quicks stores.
But Saltney Town Council members have raised concerns over access to the housing development, and are suggesting a one-way system be introduced.
Goldrock Investments Ltd has applied for planning permission to build 58 two-storey homes at 142 high street.
Asked for its observations at a recent meeting, the town council welcomed the application but expressed reservations over access.
Cllr Veronica Gay said: “This could be a godsend because we are desperately short of housing in this area, but my only reservation is that the designs only show one access route for 58 homes.
“This isn’t enough, and I’m concerned it could create a Shotton or Connah’s Quay-type traffic situation on the high street.
“Other than that, I think it’s a fantastic scheme.”
Town clerk Alan Thorniley said: “We are suggesting a one-way access system off the high street.”
The town council’s comments will now be passed to Flintshire Council’s planning department.
Morrisons says it is “hopeful” it will get planning permission for a new 65,000 sq ft supermarket on Saltney high street later this month.
The store would be based on the site of the old GT Owen and Bramall Quicks stores.
Flintshire school bids to go green with plan for windmill
By Laura Jones and Kate Forrester
A SCHOOL is hoping to become the greenest around by setting up its own windmill to generate electricity.
Huw Jones, headteacher at Ysgol Glan Aber, Bagillt, is keen to make his plans to build a windmill in the school field become a reality.
He claims the venture would reduce the school’s electricity bills by between 50 and 100 per cent – but the school needs to overcome several hurdles before the project takes off.
Mr Jones said: “We are currently looking around for funding to get it off the ground, but the idea is still in the very early stages of development, there is funding and planning to consider yet.
“There is a fantastic spot on the top of the school but we have a consultant coming soon to see if it is a viable option for us.
“We would love a windmill here. The cheapest one we have seen is about £30,000, so we are looking for sponsorship for about £15,000 so we can get match funding from the Welsh Assembly.”
Mr Jones says the school might even be able to make a profit on the project, by selling its unused electricity back to the National Grid.
He added: “The windmill would be a great educational resource for the school and it would teach our children about the importance of green energy and there will be a digital screen to show them how much energy the windmill is producing.
“The school is on its third eco award and this would be a great addition for us.”
Bagillt councillor Mike Reece says Ysgol Glan Aber is leading the way in eco-friendly technology and hopes other schools will follow its example.
He said: “I will be doing all I can to help and I really hope the project gets the green light.
The staff are children at Glan Aber are really ahead of their game.”
Any businesses who want to sponsor the school can call Mr Jones on 01352 711995 or visit www.glanaber.org.uk.
A SCHOOL is hoping to become the greenest around by setting up its own windmill to generate electricity.
Huw Jones, headteacher at Ysgol Glan Aber, Bagillt, is keen to make his plans to build a windmill in the school field become a reality.
He claims the venture would reduce the school’s electricity bills by between 50 and 100 per cent – but the school needs to overcome several hurdles before the project takes off.
Mr Jones said: “We are currently looking around for funding to get it off the ground, but the idea is still in the very early stages of development, there is funding and planning to consider yet.
“There is a fantastic spot on the top of the school but we have a consultant coming soon to see if it is a viable option for us.
“We would love a windmill here. The cheapest one we have seen is about £30,000, so we are looking for sponsorship for about £15,000 so we can get match funding from the Welsh Assembly.”
Mr Jones says the school might even be able to make a profit on the project, by selling its unused electricity back to the National Grid.
He added: “The windmill would be a great educational resource for the school and it would teach our children about the importance of green energy and there will be a digital screen to show them how much energy the windmill is producing.
“The school is on its third eco award and this would be a great addition for us.”
Bagillt councillor Mike Reece says Ysgol Glan Aber is leading the way in eco-friendly technology and hopes other schools will follow its example.
He said: “I will be doing all I can to help and I really hope the project gets the green light.
The staff are children at Glan Aber are really ahead of their game.”
Any businesses who want to sponsor the school can call Mr Jones on 01352 711995 or visit www.glanaber.org.uk.
Flintshire street’s parking issues may go to court
by Laura Jones
A SOLUTION could be in sight for residents of a street which has been plagued by parking problems for more than a decade.
People living on Bistre Close in Buckley have fought for years to stop drivers who do not have allocated parking putting cars on the roadside and blocking the close.
The road, which falls between two Buckley council wards, Mountain and Bistre West, is made up of sheltered accommodation bungalows occupied by elderly residents.
Concerns have been raised by those residents about access for fire engines and ambulances to their properties.
Now, Buckley Mountain Cllr Carol Ellis and the council’s executive member for estate management, Cllr Helen Yale, have started a legal battle to have residents-only parking put in place on the street.
Cllr Ellis said: “We have been trying to get something done for years and we have finally started what will be a lengthy procedure to get the problem solved.
“Bistre Close was allocated as an ‘adopted road’ when sheltered accommodation complex was built 30 years ago and it’s accessible to anyone who wants to park there.
“Flintshire Council do not have any legal powers to change the parking in the street to residents-only unless they go through a legal procedure which could take months to pass.
“But as it stands, access to the road is a great concern and I wouldn’t like to think what would happen if there was a fire.”
Cllr Ellis added: “This is the only solution that we have come up with that will resolve the problem.”
Joe Bennett, 81, has lived in Bistre Close for more than eight years, and said the situation has ‘got out of hand’.
He said: “It is about time something was done.
“We are pensioners and we really don't need this. It is not our fault that people buy houses that don’t have parking.”
A SOLUTION could be in sight for residents of a street which has been plagued by parking problems for more than a decade.
People living on Bistre Close in Buckley have fought for years to stop drivers who do not have allocated parking putting cars on the roadside and blocking the close.
The road, which falls between two Buckley council wards, Mountain and Bistre West, is made up of sheltered accommodation bungalows occupied by elderly residents.
Concerns have been raised by those residents about access for fire engines and ambulances to their properties.
Now, Buckley Mountain Cllr Carol Ellis and the council’s executive member for estate management, Cllr Helen Yale, have started a legal battle to have residents-only parking put in place on the street.
Cllr Ellis said: “We have been trying to get something done for years and we have finally started what will be a lengthy procedure to get the problem solved.
“Bistre Close was allocated as an ‘adopted road’ when sheltered accommodation complex was built 30 years ago and it’s accessible to anyone who wants to park there.
“Flintshire Council do not have any legal powers to change the parking in the street to residents-only unless they go through a legal procedure which could take months to pass.
“But as it stands, access to the road is a great concern and I wouldn’t like to think what would happen if there was a fire.”
Cllr Ellis added: “This is the only solution that we have come up with that will resolve the problem.”
Joe Bennett, 81, has lived in Bistre Close for more than eight years, and said the situation has ‘got out of hand’.
He said: “It is about time something was done.
“We are pensioners and we really don't need this. It is not our fault that people buy houses that don’t have parking.”
Landlord vows to reopen Flintshire pub hit by blaze
A MAN who was set to take over the lease of a pub before it was badly damaged by fire has vowed to get the business back on its feet.
Pub leaseholder Rob Lewis is facing an unexpected uphill struggle after agreeing to take over the Lifeboat Inn, on Phoenix Street, Sandycroft.
The first floor of the pub was left with shattered windows and severe smoke and fire damage after a blaze at 10.25pm on Sunday, from which 84 drinkers and staff escaped.
One person was treated by paramedics at the scene for ankle injuries, after jumping out of a first floor window.
Three crews, from Deeside and Buckley, used two hose reels and four sets of breathing equipment to tackle the blaze and the ground floor of the pub escaped damage.
Mr Lewis, who currently owns the lease on the nearby New Inn, had been preparing to take over the Lifeboat on Friday, July 31.
He said: “The pub will obviously not be able to open now, which is really disappointing.“It will require some serious investment and renovation to put it right again.
“I will still be opening the doors at some point, but I will have to do a lot of work first.”
A probe into the cause of the blaze has been launched by the fire service and North Wales Police, who are appealing for witnesses.
Anyone with information can call officers on 0845 607 1002.
Pub leaseholder Rob Lewis is facing an unexpected uphill struggle after agreeing to take over the Lifeboat Inn, on Phoenix Street, Sandycroft.
The first floor of the pub was left with shattered windows and severe smoke and fire damage after a blaze at 10.25pm on Sunday, from which 84 drinkers and staff escaped.
One person was treated by paramedics at the scene for ankle injuries, after jumping out of a first floor window.
Three crews, from Deeside and Buckley, used two hose reels and four sets of breathing equipment to tackle the blaze and the ground floor of the pub escaped damage.
Mr Lewis, who currently owns the lease on the nearby New Inn, had been preparing to take over the Lifeboat on Friday, July 31.
He said: “The pub will obviously not be able to open now, which is really disappointing.“It will require some serious investment and renovation to put it right again.
“I will still be opening the doors at some point, but I will have to do a lot of work first.”
A probe into the cause of the blaze has been launched by the fire service and North Wales Police, who are appealing for witnesses.
Anyone with information can call officers on 0845 607 1002.
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