In his regular blog for Caerphilly Observer, Caerphilly Council leader Lindsay Whittle gives his take on recent news.
YES VOTE CRUCIAL FOR WALES
The campaign for a Yes vote in the referendum on more law making powers for the National Assembly got off to a great start in Caerphilly at the weekend.
The response from the public at the Twyn was fantastic with around 80% those stopping keen to support the Yes campaign and willing to sign the pledge.
Plaid will be repeating the exercise this Saturday because we want to highlight the benefits of a Yes vote.
It would mean an end to the procedure where Westminster has to give the nod to laws in the devolved areas. This seriously delays important legislation for the people of Wales and a Yes vote will ensure the Assembly is able to use its powers more freely and operate in a more efficient manner.
BARGOED REGENERATION
The Plaid-led council has been determined to drive regeneration in Bargoed through despite the tough economic situation.
My cabinet colleague Ron Davies, who has responsibility for regeneration, has been at the forefront of our efforts to revitalise the town.
Plans go on show to the public from Saturday at Gigabytes Café and I hope the public will take the opportunity to take a look at them. Council staff will be on hand to answer questions.
The first phase includes an anchor supermarket, several shops, a new town square and nearly 400 parking spaces. We’re also looking into the possibility of a multiplex cinema being developed in a future phases.
CAPITAL PROGRAMME
We have recently announced proposals to spend £43m over the next three years on capital schemes.
It is vital in the current climate that the capital programme is kept going because it helps the local economy, supporting local firms and local workers.
As an example, funding made available for disabled facility grants and grants to improve privately-owned homes are normally spent in the local community with local firms.
The capital programme includes a range of projects across the council services including £10m for 21st century schools, school security and health and safety work, social services facilities, highways work and support for renewal areas activities.
Lindsay Whittle
Plaid Cymru leader of Caerphilly County Borough Council