In his regular blog for Caerphilly Observer South Wales East AM Lindsay Whittle gives his take on recent news.
Water pipes
I’m supporting a campaign by Welsh Water to make people aware of the need to ensure water pipes at their home and, indeed, businesses are insulated as we approach the colder months.
Burst pipes can lead to thousands of pounds of damage and just a few simple precautions can protect piping. Please don’t assume it can’t happen to you.
Information on lagging pipes is available on http://www.dwrcymru.com/en/My-Water/Prepare-your-home-for-winter.aspx. There is also an opportunity to apply for one of the 1,000 free lagging kits we are giving away.
During plenary in the Senedd last week I spoke during questions on the winter plans of our health boards. I made the point that it is also important during the cold weather that the Welsh Government works with local authorities, housing associations, and voluntary organisations as well.
The media and social media also need to be used to reach the vulnerable people who may be at risk at home.
Council shake-up
I also quizzed the Public Services Minister on his plans for local government re-organisation. A White Paper is due next year.
While reducing the number of higher-paid officers in local authorities will produce savings, I am concerned about the fact that this could be offset by the loss of experienced staff, particularly at junior managerial level.
I made the point to the Minister that one very key way to improve local government performance will be scrutiny by councillors, particularly opposition members, who could soon be representing much, much larger wards if the re-organisation goes ahead.
Hendredenny land
The Plaid Cymru team from Penyrheol has been delivering leaflets to homes over the plans by the council to sell off land, clearing the way for 250 new homes to be built at Hendredenny.
The Cabinet has postponed a decision until the new year but it is just that, a postponement not a cancellation of this unpopular land sale.
Residents need to be vigilant because this issue is not going away. The Labour Cabinet needs to do the right thing and refuse to sell.
Another 250 new homes in Caerphilly, more than £1million from the Community Infrastructure Levy and probably a few other sweeteners thrown in, plus the money from the sale of the land – surely the council aren’t going to turn that down and say no to this new housing estate.
They will unless they are corrupt!
With what appears to be vast community opposition to this plan, and, local elected members opposing it also, WHY are any decisions on its progress being left to individual planning officers, (who probably live well outside the area of the community impact any development is likely to have), and just SEVEN elected members of the Council, none of whom have any possible connection or interest in the Communites to be effected?. I also wonder if there are other `sweetheart` considerations afoot.