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Gerald Jones is the Labour Member of Parliament for the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency.
Concern about speeding vehicles
One of the common issues raised with me is speeding vehicles and the danger posed to pedestrians and other motorists.
There has been a particular problem in Groefaen Terrace, Deri, where too many drivers are ignoring the 30 mph speed limit on the road, which has a sharp bend.
Speeding there has blighted the lives of residents for far too long. I’ve been in touch with Gwent Police and met the council’s deputy leader in the area earlier this week. I’ll continue pushing for action to tackle speeding.
Another major concerns it the illegal use of off-road bikes. I’ve been working with Gwent Police and Caerphilly Council to address both issues and pleased to see some progress.
The Welsh Government are currently consulting on proposals to reduce the speed limit to 20 mph on residential street and residents have until October 1 to submit their views.
Full details can be found here: www.gov.wales/node/40592/respond-online
Fun Days
I recently joined Sport Caerphilly for their community sport session in Pontlottyn and was so pleased to hear that all sessions so far have been really well attended.
Throughout the summer, schemes run in Abertysswg, Rhymney, and Pontlottyn as well as a similar programme in Deri and Fochriw. These have only been possible thanks to funding from Rhymney Community Council and Darran Valley Community Council.
Events are held between 10am and 2pm on Mondays at Abertysswg, Wednesdays at Ael Y Bryn Community Centre, Rhymney and on Fridays at Pontlottyn Boys and Girls Club. In Darran Valley, skateboarding sessions are held on Tuesday’s from 1.30pm to 3.30pm at Deri MUGA and on Wednesday, August 18 at Fochriw MUGA.
Anyone aged between seven and 12 can participate in a variety of sporting activities free of charge. The scheme will continue until Friday, August 20.
I have written to New Tredegar Community Council asking if they would consider funding similar activities next summer.
Animal Trespassing
Many residents continue to contact me about animal trespass issues across the Upper Rhymney Valley and following representations made on behalf of residents, I have received a very promising update from the leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council regarding the issue.
The council have agreed a five-point plan to:
1. Write to all farmers reminding them of their duties to prevent animal trespassing.
2. Inspect all council-owned fencing and check if repairs are needed.
3. Contact Natural Resources Wales asking them to check their fencing.
4. Plan high profile days with the police and Natural Resources Wales where stray animals will be seized.
5. If stray animals are seized, publicise the identity of their owners.
I’ve asked the council to also consider a single point of contact where residents can report issues and to begin their enforcement action as soon as possible.
If you’d like to be kept updated, please email me: Gerald.Jones.MP@parliament.uk.
Caerphilly Council Shortlisted for Council of the Year Award
I’m really pleased that Caerphilly County Borough Council has been shortlisted for the Local Government Commission (LGC) Council of the Year 2021 Award.
This is recognition of the hard work carried out by council employees, and whilst it is always appreciated, it is even more so in these particularly challenging times.
As well as education and social services, our councils provide a range of frontline services on a daily basis. Nomination for this prestigious award is recognition of the invaluable service the council, its staff and councillors provide each and every day.
Meeting residents in Abertysswg
My regular street advice surgeries have continued this month where I’ve been able to speak to residents and discuss any issues and offer support and help. I joined Councillor David Harse in Abertysswg to knock doors and speak to residents. A number of issues were raised which have been followed up with different organisation and agencies.
I am always available for constituents to contact me by calling 01685 383 739 or via social media.
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