Report by Powys County Councillor Chloe Masefield

Contents

Powys County Councillor Report for Vale of Grwyney. 1
Powys news. 1
900 homes to receive letters offering cost-of-living support 1
Young voices lead the way at Child Poverty Task Force Conference. 2
Brecon pupils honoured for powerful entries in ‘Safe Passage’ competition. 3
Powys pupils put Welsh Lamb in the spotlight at NSA Welsh Sheep 2025. 3
Day Opportunities Model Implemented. 3
New car parking recommendations agreed. 4
Update from PTHB on waiting times. 4
Leader launches ‘Time to Talk’ – a new way to connect with residents. 5
Powys public transport network upgrade agreed by cabinet 5
Striking a chord – music education thriving across Powys. 6
Explore the Story Garden this Summer 6
Powys roads winter service review.. 7
Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy. 7
Rogue traders targeting Powys homes. 8
Work starts on 36-acre vegetable growing pilot 8
Council secures more accommodation to keep young people closer to home. 9
Powys Reports Progress and Challenges on Path to Net Zero. 10
Powys County Council frequently asked questions. 11
New easier way to apply for temporary event notices. 11

Powys news

900 homes to receive letters offering cost-of-living support

Nearly 900 Powys households will receive letters next week from the county council, offering them help with rising living costs.

Around half of them are council tenants and half live in their own homes, or other rented accommodation, but all have been identified – using data analytics – as potentially struggling financially as bills and other prices increase.

Those who receive a letter will be invited to get in touch with the council and access free and confidential help, including:

• Support with managing household bills and energy costs
• Guidance on benefits and entitlements
• Help with budgeting and managing debt
• Advice tailored to your personal circumstances

The council’s trained and accredited advisors can offer support online, over the phone or in person at a council office, in your community or even your own home.

Get help as a council tenant:

• Phone: 01597 827464
• Email: fsogroup@powys.gov.uk
• Website: https://en.powys.gov.uk/Financial-Support-Officers-Information

For all other households:

• Phone: 01597 826618
• E-mail: wrteam@powys.gov.uk
• Website: https://en.powys.gov.uk/moneyadvice

Young voices lead the way at Child Poverty Task Force Conference

Pupils from Ysgol Golwg y Cwm made a strong impression at Powys County Council’s third annual Child Poverty Task Force Conference, challenging the council and its partners to do more to tackle child poverty across the county.

In a session led by Child Poverty Action Group, the children shared their experiences and perspectives of poverty, offering powerful insights that set the tone for a day of reflection, learning, and action.

Their voices underscored the urgency of the work ahead and were met with a strong commitment from council leaders to listen, respond, and deliver meaningful change.

The conference celebrated the achievements of the past year, including the delivery of community-led projects funded by £90,000 from the Welsh Government. These included family cooking sessions in Ysgol Golwg y Cwm, literacy events in Llandrindod Wells, and youth engagement activities across the county.

The council also informed delegates about that it had secured a further £125,000 from the Welsh Government’s Child Poverty Innovation and Supporting Communities Grant Scheme. This funding will support:

• A Young Persons’ Engagement Officer to ensure children and young people’s voices shape future support.
• A new Poverty Truth Commission, named “Speak Truth To Powys”, to bring lived experience into policymaking.
• An Essential Support Scheme to provide urgent help with food, clothing, and other necessities.

Brecon pupils honoured for powerful entries in ‘Safe Passage’ competition

Six pupils from the New Start Centre in Brecon are celebrating a remarkable achievement after receiving prizes and certificates in a regional creative competition marking Refugee Week.

This year’s competition invited local pupils to interpret the theme of Safe Passage through a range of creative formats, including poetry, visual art, journalism, and short film.

With over 520 entries submitted from schools across the area, it is a notable accomplishment that every entrant from the New Start Centre received recognition. This outcome reflects both the high standard of work produced by the pupils and the supportive educational environment in which their creativity is encouraged to flourish.

Powys pupils put Welsh Lamb in the spotlight at NSA Welsh Sheep 2025

Primary school pupils from Powys took centre stage at this year’s NSA Welsh Sheep 2025 event, showcasing their culinary creativity in a hands-on cooking experience celebrating Welsh lamb.

Pupils from Ysgol Mynydd Du in Talgarth, and Archdeacon Griffiths School in Llyswen, travelled to the host farm near Hay-on-Wye, where they participated in a series of interactive cooking sessions.

Guided by food professionals, the pupils prepared lamb meatballs using a variety of fresh ingredients including garlic, spinach, onions, chard, kale, and spices. Each child then scored their own dish out of ten, adding a fun and reflective element to the experience.

The initiative formed part of a wider collaboration between Powys County Council, NSA Welsh Sheep, and Castell Howell Foods, who generously supplied the lamb for the event.

In the lead-up to the event, the participating schools were among four local schools that featured Welsh Lamb on their lunch menus, with roast, boned and rolled legs of lamb served to pupils – highlighting the importance of local, nutritious food in school meals.

 This successful project highlighted the value of collaboration between education, agriculture, and the food industry, and reinforced Powys County Council’s commitment to promoting local produce and experiential learning in schools.

Day Opportunities Model Implemented

Changes to Day opportunities in Powys are being implemented throughout the county using a locality-based model, following a decision by the council’s cabinet.

The new model, approved by the Cabinet in May, will see services delivered across the thirteen localities of the county, in a ‘hub and spoke pattern’, with a permanent service base in the five Sustainable Powys hubs of Welshpool, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Brecon and Ystradgynlais, and outreach from the hubs to their surrounding localities.

Five Local Area Co-ordinators, one in each core area, along with three new Supported Employment specialist roles, covering north, mid and south Powys, will be employed to support the new model. 

New car parking recommendations agreed

Recommendations to the county’s car parking arrangements following a comprehensive cross-party review have been agreed by the Powys County Council’s cabinet Tuesday 24 June.

The agreed recommendations include:

1. The reintroduction of the one-hour parking tariff to all long stay car parks.
2. The confirmation of new car parking tariffs for up to 1hr parking to £1.50, 1-2hrs parking to £2.50, 2-4hr parking to £3.50 and all-day parking to £5.00.
3. The introduction of a single car park permits (to be used in one specified car park only) at a cost of £280 (annual), £155 (6 month), £90 (3 month) and £30 (1 month).

Alongside these recommendations, the previously agreed changes to the Blue Badge holders parking arrangements will also be introduced. Blue Badge holders will now need to purchase a pay and display ticket in council car parks but will receive an additional one hour after the expiry of their purchased ticket.

From 20 May, all car parks have been able to accept payments via mobile phones using the PayByPhone app. This new facility means that drivers can pay for and manage their parking session via their phones and opt-in to have text message reminders of when their parking session is about to expire.

The new car parking arrangements will come into effect in August 2025.

Update from PTHB on waiting times

Dear Colleague

Information about Waiting Times

From the beginning of July 2025, wherever you live in Powys you will receive planned care treatments (inpatients and daycases) based on the NHS Wales waiting time measures.

Prior to July 2025, all planned care in Wales was delivered based on NHS Wales waiting time measures, and all planned care in England was delivered based on NHS England waiting time measures.

This change will NOT include:

•           Cancer referrals

•           Urgent and emergency referrals

•           Appointments for people under 18

•           People resident outside Powys (including if you are registered with a Powys GP)

•           Follow up appointments and your ongoing care for long term conditions (e.g. diabetes)

This change will NOT currently include planned care outpatients (new or follow up), although this is being kept under review.

If you already have a date for your appointment or procedure, then this is not affected. Please attend your appointment as normal.

You do not need to take any action. You will remain on the waiting list and the hospital will contact you to arrange your appointment. There is no need to contact your hospital provider or your GP practice to ask for an update on when your appointment will take place, or to expedite your appointment unless your symptoms have significantly changed.

This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and it reflects the way we are funded. We must take action to live within our means, or we will build up bigger financial difficulties for the future.

More information is available from the Powys Teaching Health Board website: pthb.nhs.wales/powys-elective 

Leader launches ‘Time to Talk’ – a new way to connect with residents

A new initiative has been launched by the Leader of Powys County Council to strengthen the connection between the council and its residents.

Starting on Wednesday, July 23 during Royal Welsh Show week, Cllr Jake Berriman will host his ‘Time to Talk’ – a monthly online session where residents can book a one-on-one appointment to ask questions, raise concerns, or share ideas in a relaxed and informal setting.

After July’s inaugural session, future sessions will take place on the third Wednesday of every month via Microsoft Team and will last two hours in total, with 12 appointments available to residents. Appointments will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

Each resident will have up to eight minutes to speak directly with the Leader.

Residents who wish to take part must book in advance by emailing leader@powys.gov.uk by 5pm on Wednesday 16 July. 

Residents are welcome to include their question or topic in advance, but this is not required – questions can also be raised on the day. A written response will be provided afterwards if needed.

Powys public transport network upgrade agreed by cabinet

Plans to upgrade the county’s public transport network have been agreed by the Powys County Council’s cabinet.

Following a comprehensive engagement and consultation exercise, the council has revised its local bus timetables and service routes, incorporating public feedback to ensure a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable transport network.

The upgraded network aims to deliver the Sustainable Powys ambition of connecting communities and localities to their core towns within an hour’s journey time. It also provides for longer distance services throughout the county and for onward travel to bigger towns and cities across the boarders that Powys residents may need to get to for health, education and other services that are not available locally.

With an increase in routes, bus numbers and more evening and weekend travel options, the agreed upgrade will require additional funding of a one-off investment of £1.349m and an annual increase in budget of £2.354m. These costs will be taken to an Extraordinary Full Council meeting on 4 July for approval.

Details of the new services will be publicised later in the summer.

Striking a chord – music education thriving across Powys

This academic year, nearly 1,500 primary school pupils from Powys have taken part in eight-week ‘First Experience’ sessions delivered by professional musicians. These sessions have introduced pupils to a wide range of instruments including the ukulele, pbuzz, violin, cello, toots, and voice.

In addition, more than 600 pupils have enjoyed funded taster sessions with many using instruments provided by the National Music Service for Wales’ Instrument Repository.

Since September 2024, nearly 8,000 pupils have experienced live music events in their schools, local communities, or at music venues across Wales.

The National Music Plan has also supported the development of lunchtime and after-school music clubs in Powys schools. Pupils have had the opportunity to join brass ensembles, ukulele and guitar groups, male voice choirs, string groups, recorder ensembles, and piano choirs – helping to build confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong love of music.

The Welsh Government have also confirmed that funding for the National Music Plan for Education in Wales will continue for a further three years. This will allow the council to:

• Expand First Experience sessions to all primary schools across the county.
• Strengthen collaboration with Music Ambassadors in high schools to ensure pupil voice shapes future projects.
• Increase ensemble opportunities for young musicians across the region.

Explore the Story Garden this Summer

Children across Powys are encouraged to join the Summer Reading Challenge and explore the magical connection between storytelling and the natural world.

The Summer Reading Challenge invites children aged four to 11 to visit their local library, with the aim to read six books over the summer holidays. The challenge can help them to discover new books, and enjoy a summer filled with fun, imagination, and outdoor inspiration.

This year, The Reading Agency has set the theme as ‘Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors’, offering young readers a world of stories, creatures, and nature-based adventures.

The challenge runs from Saturday 5 July until mid-September, and if you sign up at your local library, you will receive a free collector’s folder and can collect special stickers and rewards as you read your books. Those who complete the challenge will receive a medal and certificate, a free family swim voucher, kindly donated by Freedom Leisure, and gain entry into a prize draw.

To get involved:

• Visit your local library: fill in the registration card and receive a special collector folder when you start your Challenge
• Sign up online: Visit https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/ and follow the instructions.

Powys libraries have a variety of books available for the challenge, in English and Welsh, including picture books, quick reads, story books, information books and comic books.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/storipowysplant or contact the library service on library@powys.gov.uk or 01874 612394

Powys roads winter service review

Recommendations for how Powys roads are categorised and serviced during the winter months will be discussed by Powys County Council’s scrutiny committee next week, Wednesday 9 July.

The recommendations have been developed during the comprehensive Powys roads winter service review which has included an extensive public consultation during 2023 and further engagement with local members in 2024.

Following the guidance from the National Winter Service Research Group (NWSRG) and the Well-managed Highway Infrastructure: A Code of Practice, all Powys roads have been categorised using a risk and evidence-based approach. In layman’s terms this means we have considered a number of criteria for each road, including traffic volume, public transport links, amenities and essential services such as schools, medical centres and the location of emergency services.

The categories have then been applied in practical terms, developing a recommended set of winter service (gritting) routes for the whole county which will have been created using an open, consistent and fair approach that will provide an equitable service for all of Powys.

Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy

Following a 12-week public engagement exercise, the Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy has been finalised and will be discussed by the council’s scrutiny committee next week, Wednesday 9 July.

The Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy (2025-2030) is a comprehensive plan aimed at creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Powys and our future generations. This strategy builds on the significant progress made in waste reduction and recycling over the past decade and addresses the ongoing challenges posed by the global climate crisis alongside other national and local drivers for change.

The five main key aims of the strategy are:

• Reduce, Reuse, Repair: Prevent waste generation, extend product lifespans, and promote a circular economy.
• Recycling: Achieve and exceed the Welsh Government’s 70% statutory recycling target.
• Household Recycling Centres (HRCs): Increase recycling and reuse rates at HRCs.
• Awareness and Enforcement: Improve how waste is managed and reduce illegal activities like fly-tipping.
• Infrastructure: Develop and maintain infrastructure to support increased recycling and decarbonisation.

The final version of the Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy will be taken to the Powys County Council’s Cabinet Meeting for approval following the scrutiny committee meeting.

Rogue traders targeting Powys homes

Residents in Powys are being urged to be on their guard as rogue traders are targeting the county.

Powys County Council’s Trading Standards Service has issued the warning after receiving reports of rogue traders targeting properties in Brecon and Newtown, offering housing repair and gardening services.

These itinerant traders are known to operate under the guise of offering quick and affordable landscaping, gardening, and home maintenance work. However, many have no formal training or experience, and their work is often substandard, overpriced, or left incomplete

Tell tail signs of so-called rogue landscapers include cheap prices, verbal quotes only, no references, offers to start immediately and asking for cash up front.

The council are also reminding people to be wary of any unsolicited calls to their home. Anyone approached on their doorstep, or who feels threatened should call the police on 101.

If potential customers do decide to employ an unknown tradesperson, the council’s Trading Standards Service advice is:

Check the traders’ credentials, particularly any phone number given

• Carry out internet research including a check for any negative reviews
• Ask friends or neighbours if they have heard of the firm, and if local, check to ensure their premises are where they say they are
• Ask the trader for references, and if possible view an example of their work
• It is advisable to use a trader who is a member of a trade association, but check the claim with the trade body before employing them
• Ask for a written quotation before going ahead. Make sure the trader’s name and address is on it and that the price for the work is clear
• Keep a note of any vehicle details including the registration number
• Never part with money until the work is completed to your satisfaction. Always try to pay by cheque or credit card – never be persuaded into going to the bank or building society to withdraw cash.

Legislation requires cold callers to give consumers a ‘cancellation notice’, giving them 14 days to cancel the contract made for any work over £42. Failure to issue a cancellation notice in the correct manner is a criminal offence. 

Anyone who thinks they may be a victim or thinks someone they know may have been, should get in touch with Citizens Advice consumer helpline free on 0808 223 1133 or to contact a Welsh-speaking adviser call 0808 223 1144.

Work starts on 36-acre vegetable growing pilot

Farmers have started work on three new plots near Newtown to test whether Powys land can be used to grow fruit and vegetables agroecologically on a commercial scale.

Between them they are working 36 acres of Powys County Council-owned land in Sarn. It will be used to supply produce to local markets, schools in Wales and possibly in future nearby cities such as Birmingham.

The successful applicants, who all come from Powys or the nearby border areas, were selected based on their business plans and former growing experience.

The farmers will work collaboratively to provide a local veg box scheme, as well as developing individual enterprises. Plans include selling organic vegetables to wholesalers and salad crops to local cafés and restaurants, supplying seeds to the Wales Seed Hub, selling vegetable, herb and tree seedlings, along with fruit and eggs, offering beehive building and food preparation courses, and selling kimchis, chutneys and other prepared foods at local markets.

The project is being delivered by the Future Farms Partnership which includes Powys and Carmarthenshire County Councils, Our Food 1200 and Social Farms & Gardens.

The site includes three temporary homes, which received planning permission under new guidance issued last year by Powys County Council. The guidance supports the installation of temporary dwellings as part of small-scale horticultural enterprises.

Funding has been provided by the Welsh Government (£270,000) through its Asset Collaboration Programme, the UK Government (£341,000) through its Shared Prosperity Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund (£20,000) through its Local Places for Nature Capital Fund.

The new farmers are being supported by Cultivate, Pathways to Farming, Mentera, Lantra and Farming Connect.

The members of the Future Farms Partnership are Social Farms & Gardens, Our Food 1200, Shared Assets, Landworkers’ Alliance, Cultivate, Nature Friendly Farming Network, Lantra, Black Mountains College, Ecological Land Cooperative, Eco Dyfi and Gwlad Consortium.

More information on the Sarn Farms project: https://ourfood1200.wales/we-are-building-three-new-farms-at-sarn-in-powys/

Council secures more accommodation to keep young people closer to home

Vulnerable young people now have more options to remain living closer to home thanks to semi-independent placements secured across Powys.  

A project to provide a range of in-county accommodation for young people aged 16-25 enables them to stay within their communities and maintain childhood connections. 

The 27 placements across Powys offers varying levels of support with preparation for independent living for young people who are vulnerable or at risk of homelessness, including care leavers.  

The seven new properties have helped the council to make savings of more than £200,000 last year.  

Living closer to home often allows the young people continue to access services, support and education in their local area leading to more positive outcomes.  

The feedback from young people includes: 

• They feel safe, more independent and cooking more for themselves.  
• They appreciated staff supporting them with budgeting and food shopping.  
• They feel more connected and informed about the future and that they were treated well 

Powys Reports Progress and Challenges on Path to Net Zero

LED light fittings and solar PV panels installed on county council buildings in Powys have helped cut yearly carbon emissions by 113.96 tonnes and reduce energy bills by around £130,000.

These are among the figures revealed in the Powys Net Zero Annual Report 2024, which will be presented to the county council’s Cabinet next week (Tuesday 15 July).

Key achievements for 2024 include:

• LED lighting: More than 3,600 fixtures replaced, saving 40,874kg CO₂e.
• EV (electric vehicle) infrastructure: £635,000 secured for extra capacity.
• Energy efficiency: Improved in more than 1,800 properties.
• Solar PV (photovoltaic) installations: 528 kW installed, saving 73,083kg CO₂e.
• Insulation and glazing: Significant upgrades across schools and community buildings.

Major projects and funding in 2024 include:

• Shared Prosperity Fund: £7.17 million allocated to more than 25 decarbonisation projects.
• Warm Wales Scheme: Improved energy efficiency in homes.
• Energy Redress Scheme: Supported community-owned renewables.
• Nature Recovery Action Plan: Developed to enhance biodiversity and green spaces.
• Severn Valley Water Management Scheme: Began tackling flood risk and water resilience.

However, despite these successes the council’s carbon emissions for the 2023-24 financial year went up by 5.2% to 90,272.77 tonnes.

This was in part due to:

• Inclusion of school transport data for the first time.
• Higher supply chain emissions.
• Fleet and business travel growth.

There were decreases though in:

• Commuting and homeworking emissions.
• Waste emissions (due to a move away from landfill).

The challenges to the council reaching net-zero by 2030, identified in the report, include:

• Budget constraints.
• Limited staffing and fixed-term roles.
• Lack of organisation-wide climate literacy.
• Uncosted action plans

Next steps for 2025-26, covered in the report, include:

• Developing a Net Zero Route Map and Carbon Management Plan.
• Finalising a Fleet Transition Plan and Low Carbon Heating Strategy.
• Expanding the county’s EV charging infrastructure and renewable installations.
• Improving data systems for emissions tracking.
• Strengthening supply chain sustainability and social value procurement.

The full report can be viewed online with the meeting papers for the Tuesday 15 July Cabinet meeting

Powys County Council frequently asked questions

Your questions, answered

Working for the council often means we hear comments about how we spend our money, why council tax keeps increasing, and much more. Many of the comments we hear are based on misinformation or assumptions.

So, we have put together a list of frequently asked questions on our website to address as many of the common questions as possible. Visit: Council Information: Your questions answered – Powys County Council

New easier way to apply for temporary event notices

People and organisations wanting permission to put on small-scale events for less than 500 people, in Powys, now have an easier way to apply through the county council’s website.

A TEN, or temporary event notice, is needed for events held at a place without a premises licence, or not covered by an existing licence, for up to seven days (168 hours).

The type of events covered might include:

• Plays or films
• Indoor sporting events, such as boxing or wrestling
• Live or recorded music
• Dancing, or dance performances
• Facilities for making music or dancing
• Sale or supply of alcohol
• Sale or supply of late-night refreshments (hot food and drink between 11pm and 5am)

More information on applying for a temporary event notice is available on the council’s website: https://en.powys.gov.uk/tens

Applications were previously submitted through a UK Government website, by email or post, but now need to be made using this online form: https://en.powys.gov.uk/tensubmit

Applicants must be at least 18-years-old.

Applications must be made at least 10 working days before an event is to be held and ideally sooner, to allow time for any disagreements to be resolved.

The cost of applying is £21, which has not changed.

People or organisations with further questions about temporary event notices should email: licensing@powys.gov.uk or phone: 01597 827389

Powys County Councillor Report for Vale of Grwyney. 1

Powys news. 1

900 homes to receive letters offering cost-of-living support 1

Young voices lead the way at Child Poverty Task Force Conference. 2

Brecon pupils honoured for powerful entries in ‘Safe Passage’ competition. 3

Powys pupils put Welsh Lamb in the spotlight at NSA Welsh Sheep 2025. 3

Day Opportunities Model Implemented. 3

New car parking recommendations agreed. 4

Update from PTHB on waiting times. 4

Leader launches ‘Time to Talk’ – a new way to connect with residents. 5

Powys public transport network upgrade agreed by cabinet 5

Striking a chord – music education thriving across Powys. 6

Explore the Story Garden this Summer 6

Powys roads winter service review.. 7

Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy. 7

Rogue traders targeting Powys homes. 8

Work starts on 36-acre vegetable growing pilot 8

Council secures more accommodation to keep young people closer to home. 9

Powys Reports Progress and Challenges on Path to Net Zero. 10

Powys County Council frequently asked questions. 11

New easier way to apply for temporary event notices. 11

Powys news

900 homes to receive letters offering cost-of-living support

Nearly 900 Powys households will receive letters next week from the county council, offering them help with rising living costs.

Around half of them are council tenants and half live in their own homes, or other rented accommodation, but all have been identified – using data analytics – as potentially struggling financially as bills and other prices increase.

Those who receive a letter will be invited to get in touch with the council and access free and confidential help, including:

• Support with managing household bills and energy costs
• Guidance on benefits and entitlements
• Help with budgeting and managing debt
• Advice tailored to your personal circumstances

The council’s trained and accredited advisors can offer support online, over the phone or in person at a council office, in your community or even your own home.

Get help as a council tenant:

• Phone: 01597 827464
• Email: fsogroup@powys.gov.uk
• Website: https://en.powys.gov.uk/Financial-Support-Officers-Information

For all other households:

• Phone: 01597 826618
• E-mail: wrteam@powys.gov.uk
• Website: https://en.powys.gov.uk/moneyadvice

Young voices lead the way at Child Poverty Task Force Conference

Pupils from Ysgol Golwg y Cwm made a strong impression at Powys County Council’s third annual Child Poverty Task Force Conference, challenging the council and its partners to do more to tackle child poverty across the county.

In a session led by Child Poverty Action Group, the children shared their experiences and perspectives of poverty, offering powerful insights that set the tone for a day of reflection, learning, and action.

Their voices underscored the urgency of the work ahead and were met with a strong commitment from council leaders to listen, respond, and deliver meaningful change.

The conference celebrated the achievements of the past year, including the delivery of community-led projects funded by £90,000 from the Welsh Government. These included family cooking sessions in Ysgol Golwg y Cwm, literacy events in Llandrindod Wells, and youth engagement activities across the county.

The council also informed delegates about that it had secured a further £125,000 from the Welsh Government’s Child Poverty Innovation and Supporting Communities Grant Scheme. This funding will support:

• A Young Persons’ Engagement Officer to ensure children and young people’s voices shape future support.
• A new Poverty Truth Commission, named “Speak Truth To Powys”, to bring lived experience into policymaking.
• An Essential Support Scheme to provide urgent help with food, clothing, and other necessities.

Brecon pupils honoured for powerful entries in ‘Safe Passage’ competition

Six pupils from the New Start Centre in Brecon are celebrating a remarkable achievement after receiving prizes and certificates in a regional creative competition marking Refugee Week.

This year’s competition invited local pupils to interpret the theme of Safe Passage through a range of creative formats, including poetry, visual art, journalism, and short film.

With over 520 entries submitted from schools across the area, it is a notable accomplishment that every entrant from the New Start Centre received recognition. This outcome reflects both the high standard of work produced by the pupils and the supportive educational environment in which their creativity is encouraged to flourish.

Powys pupils put Welsh Lamb in the spotlight at NSA Welsh Sheep 2025

Primary school pupils from Powys took centre stage at this year’s NSA Welsh Sheep 2025 event, showcasing their culinary creativity in a hands-on cooking experience celebrating Welsh lamb.

Pupils from Ysgol Mynydd Du in Talgarth, and Archdeacon Griffiths School in Llyswen, travelled to the host farm near Hay-on-Wye, where they participated in a series of interactive cooking sessions.

Guided by food professionals, the pupils prepared lamb meatballs using a variety of fresh ingredients including garlic, spinach, onions, chard, kale, and spices. Each child then scored their own dish out of ten, adding a fun and reflective element to the experience.

The initiative formed part of a wider collaboration between Powys County Council, NSA Welsh Sheep, and Castell Howell Foods, who generously supplied the lamb for the event.

In the lead-up to the event, the participating schools were among four local schools that featured Welsh Lamb on their lunch menus, with roast, boned and rolled legs of lamb served to pupils – highlighting the importance of local, nutritious food in school meals.

 This successful project highlighted the value of collaboration between education, agriculture, and the food industry, and reinforced Powys County Council’s commitment to promoting local produce and experiential learning in schools.

Day Opportunities Model Implemented

Changes to Day opportunities in Powys are being implemented throughout the county using a locality-based model, following a decision by the council’s cabinet.

The new model, approved by the Cabinet in May, will see services delivered across the thirteen localities of the county, in a ‘hub and spoke pattern’, with a permanent service base in the five Sustainable Powys hubs of Welshpool, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Brecon and Ystradgynlais, and outreach from the hubs to their surrounding localities.

Five Local Area Co-ordinators, one in each core area, along with three new Supported Employment specialist roles, covering north, mid and south Powys, will be employed to support the new model. 

New car parking recommendations agreed

Recommendations to the county’s car parking arrangements following a comprehensive cross-party review have been agreed by the Powys County Council’s cabinet Tuesday 24 June.

The agreed recommendations include:

1. The reintroduction of the one-hour parking tariff to all long stay car parks.
2. The confirmation of new car parking tariffs for up to 1hr parking to £1.50, 1-2hrs parking to £2.50, 2-4hr parking to £3.50 and all-day parking to £5.00.
3. The introduction of a single car park permits (to be used in one specified car park only) at a cost of £280 (annual), £155 (6 month), £90 (3 month) and £30 (1 month).

Alongside these recommendations, the previously agreed changes to the Blue Badge holders parking arrangements will also be introduced. Blue Badge holders will now need to purchase a pay and display ticket in council car parks but will receive an additional one hour after the expiry of their purchased ticket.

From 20 May, all car parks have been able to accept payments via mobile phones using the PayByPhone app. This new facility means that drivers can pay for and manage their parking session via their phones and opt-in to have text message reminders of when their parking session is about to expire.

The new car parking arrangements will come into effect in August 2025.

Update from PTHB on waiting times

Dear Colleague

Information about Waiting Times

From the beginning of July 2025, wherever you live in Powys you will receive planned care treatments (inpatients and daycases) based on the NHS Wales waiting time measures.

Prior to July 2025, all planned care in Wales was delivered based on NHS Wales waiting time measures, and all planned care in England was delivered based on NHS England waiting time measures.

This change will NOT include:

•           Cancer referrals

•           Urgent and emergency referrals

•           Appointments for people under 18

•           People resident outside Powys (including if you are registered with a Powys GP)

•           Follow up appointments and your ongoing care for long term conditions (e.g. diabetes)

This change will NOT currently include planned care outpatients (new or follow up), although this is being kept under review.

If you already have a date for your appointment or procedure, then this is not affected. Please attend your appointment as normal.

You do not need to take any action. You will remain on the waiting list and the hospital will contact you to arrange your appointment. There is no need to contact your hospital provider or your GP practice to ask for an update on when your appointment will take place, or to expedite your appointment unless your symptoms have significantly changed.

This is not a decision we have taken lightly, and it reflects the way we are funded. We must take action to live within our means, or we will build up bigger financial difficulties for the future.

More information is available from the Powys Teaching Health Board website: pthb.nhs.wales/powys-elective 

Leader launches ‘Time to Talk’ – a new way to connect with residents

A new initiative has been launched by the Leader of Powys County Council to strengthen the connection between the council and its residents.

Starting on Wednesday, July 23 during Royal Welsh Show week, Cllr Jake Berriman will host his ‘Time to Talk’ – a monthly online session where residents can book a one-on-one appointment to ask questions, raise concerns, or share ideas in a relaxed and informal setting.

After July’s inaugural session, future sessions will take place on the third Wednesday of every month via Microsoft Team and will last two hours in total, with 12 appointments available to residents. Appointments will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

Each resident will have up to eight minutes to speak directly with the Leader.

Residents who wish to take part must book in advance by emailing leader@powys.gov.uk by 5pm on Wednesday 16 July. 

Residents are welcome to include their question or topic in advance, but this is not required – questions can also be raised on the day. A written response will be provided afterwards if needed.

Powys public transport network upgrade agreed by cabinet

Plans to upgrade the county’s public transport network have been agreed by the Powys County Council’s cabinet.

Following a comprehensive engagement and consultation exercise, the council has revised its local bus timetables and service routes, incorporating public feedback to ensure a more efficient, inclusive, and sustainable transport network.

The upgraded network aims to deliver the Sustainable Powys ambition of connecting communities and localities to their core towns within an hour’s journey time. It also provides for longer distance services throughout the county and for onward travel to bigger towns and cities across the boarders that Powys residents may need to get to for health, education and other services that are not available locally.

With an increase in routes, bus numbers and more evening and weekend travel options, the agreed upgrade will require additional funding of a one-off investment of £1.349m and an annual increase in budget of £2.354m. These costs will be taken to an Extraordinary Full Council meeting on 4 July for approval.

Details of the new services will be publicised later in the summer.

Striking a chord – music education thriving across Powys

This academic year, nearly 1,500 primary school pupils from Powys have taken part in eight-week ‘First Experience’ sessions delivered by professional musicians. These sessions have introduced pupils to a wide range of instruments including the ukulele, pbuzz, violin, cello, toots, and voice.

In addition, more than 600 pupils have enjoyed funded taster sessions with many using instruments provided by the National Music Service for Wales’ Instrument Repository.

Since September 2024, nearly 8,000 pupils have experienced live music events in their schools, local communities, or at music venues across Wales.

The National Music Plan has also supported the development of lunchtime and after-school music clubs in Powys schools. Pupils have had the opportunity to join brass ensembles, ukulele and guitar groups, male voice choirs, string groups, recorder ensembles, and piano choirs – helping to build confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong love of music.

The Welsh Government have also confirmed that funding for the National Music Plan for Education in Wales will continue for a further three years. This will allow the council to:

• Expand First Experience sessions to all primary schools across the county.
• Strengthen collaboration with Music Ambassadors in high schools to ensure pupil voice shapes future projects.
• Increase ensemble opportunities for young musicians across the region.

Explore the Story Garden this Summer

Children across Powys are encouraged to join the Summer Reading Challenge and explore the magical connection between storytelling and the natural world.

The Summer Reading Challenge invites children aged four to 11 to visit their local library, with the aim to read six books over the summer holidays. The challenge can help them to discover new books, and enjoy a summer filled with fun, imagination, and outdoor inspiration.

This year, The Reading Agency has set the theme as ‘Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors’, offering young readers a world of stories, creatures, and nature-based adventures.

The challenge runs from Saturday 5 July until mid-September, and if you sign up at your local library, you will receive a free collector’s folder and can collect special stickers and rewards as you read your books. Those who complete the challenge will receive a medal and certificate, a free family swim voucher, kindly donated by Freedom Leisure, and gain entry into a prize draw.

To get involved:

• Visit your local library: fill in the registration card and receive a special collector folder when you start your Challenge
• Sign up online: Visit https://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/ and follow the instructions.

Powys libraries have a variety of books available for the challenge, in English and Welsh, including picture books, quick reads, story books, information books and comic books.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/storipowysplant or contact the library service on library@powys.gov.uk or 01874 612394

Powys roads winter service review

Recommendations for how Powys roads are categorised and serviced during the winter months will be discussed by Powys County Council’s scrutiny committee next week, Wednesday 9 July.

The recommendations have been developed during the comprehensive Powys roads winter service review which has included an extensive public consultation during 2023 and further engagement with local members in 2024.

Following the guidance from the National Winter Service Research Group (NWSRG) and the Well-managed Highway Infrastructure: A Code of Practice, all Powys roads have been categorised using a risk and evidence-based approach. In layman’s terms this means we have considered a number of criteria for each road, including traffic volume, public transport links, amenities and essential services such as schools, medical centres and the location of emergency services.

The categories have then been applied in practical terms, developing a recommended set of winter service (gritting) routes for the whole county which will have been created using an open, consistent and fair approach that will provide an equitable service for all of Powys.

Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy

Following a 12-week public engagement exercise, the Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy has been finalised and will be discussed by the council’s scrutiny committee next week, Wednesday 9 July.

The Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy (2025-2030) is a comprehensive plan aimed at creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Powys and our future generations. This strategy builds on the significant progress made in waste reduction and recycling over the past decade and addresses the ongoing challenges posed by the global climate crisis alongside other national and local drivers for change.

The five main key aims of the strategy are:

• Reduce, Reuse, Repair: Prevent waste generation, extend product lifespans, and promote a circular economy.
• Recycling: Achieve and exceed the Welsh Government’s 70% statutory recycling target.
• Household Recycling Centres (HRCs): Increase recycling and reuse rates at HRCs.
• Awareness and Enforcement: Improve how waste is managed and reduce illegal activities like fly-tipping.
• Infrastructure: Develop and maintain infrastructure to support increased recycling and decarbonisation.

The final version of the Powys Sustainable Resource Strategy will be taken to the Powys County Council’s Cabinet Meeting for approval following the scrutiny committee meeting.

Rogue traders targeting Powys homes

Residents in Powys are being urged to be on their guard as rogue traders are targeting the county.

Powys County Council’s Trading Standards Service has issued the warning after receiving reports of rogue traders targeting properties in Brecon and Newtown, offering housing repair and gardening services.

These itinerant traders are known to operate under the guise of offering quick and affordable landscaping, gardening, and home maintenance work. However, many have no formal training or experience, and their work is often substandard, overpriced, or left incomplete

Tell tail signs of so-called rogue landscapers include cheap prices, verbal quotes only, no references, offers to start immediately and asking for cash up front.

The council are also reminding people to be wary of any unsolicited calls to their home. Anyone approached on their doorstep, or who feels threatened should call the police on 101.

If potential customers do decide to employ an unknown tradesperson, the council’s Trading Standards Service advice is:

Check the traders’ credentials, particularly any phone number given

• Carry out internet research including a check for any negative reviews
• Ask friends or neighbours if they have heard of the firm, and if local, check to ensure their premises are where they say they are
• Ask the trader for references, and if possible view an example of their work
• It is advisable to use a trader who is a member of a trade association, but check the claim with the trade body before employing them
• Ask for a written quotation before going ahead. Make sure the trader’s name and address is on it and that the price for the work is clear
• Keep a note of any vehicle details including the registration number
• Never part with money until the work is completed to your satisfaction. Always try to pay by cheque or credit card – never be persuaded into going to the bank or building society to withdraw cash.

Legislation requires cold callers to give consumers a ‘cancellation notice’, giving them 14 days to cancel the contract made for any work over £42. Failure to issue a cancellation notice in the correct manner is a criminal offence. 

Anyone who thinks they may be a victim or thinks someone they know may have been, should get in touch with Citizens Advice consumer helpline free on 0808 223 1133 or to contact a Welsh-speaking adviser call 0808 223 1144.

Work starts on 36-acre vegetable growing pilot

Farmers have started work on three new plots near Newtown to test whether Powys land can be used to grow fruit and vegetables agroecologically on a commercial scale.

Between them they are working 36 acres of Powys County Council-owned land in Sarn. It will be used to supply produce to local markets, schools in Wales and possibly in future nearby cities such as Birmingham.

The successful applicants, who all come from Powys or the nearby border areas, were selected based on their business plans and former growing experience.

The farmers will work collaboratively to provide a local veg box scheme, as well as developing individual enterprises. Plans include selling organic vegetables to wholesalers and salad crops to local cafés and restaurants, supplying seeds to the Wales Seed Hub, selling vegetable, herb and tree seedlings, along with fruit and eggs, offering beehive building and food preparation courses, and selling kimchis, chutneys and other prepared foods at local markets.

The project is being delivered by the Future Farms Partnership which includes Powys and Carmarthenshire County Councils, Our Food 1200 and Social Farms & Gardens.

The site includes three temporary homes, which received planning permission under new guidance issued last year by Powys County Council. The guidance supports the installation of temporary dwellings as part of small-scale horticultural enterprises.

Funding has been provided by the Welsh Government (£270,000) through its Asset Collaboration Programme, the UK Government (£341,000) through its Shared Prosperity Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund (£20,000) through its Local Places for Nature Capital Fund.

The new farmers are being supported by Cultivate, Pathways to Farming, Mentera, Lantra and Farming Connect.

The members of the Future Farms Partnership are Social Farms & Gardens, Our Food 1200, Shared Assets, Landworkers’ Alliance, Cultivate, Nature Friendly Farming Network, Lantra, Black Mountains College, Ecological Land Cooperative, Eco Dyfi and Gwlad Consortium.

More information on the Sarn Farms project: https://ourfood1200.wales/we-are-building-three-new-farms-at-sarn-in-powys/

Council secures more accommodation to keep young people closer to home

Vulnerable young people now have more options to remain living closer to home thanks to semi-independent placements secured across Powys.  

A project to provide a range of in-county accommodation for young people aged 16-25 enables them to stay within their communities and maintain childhood connections. 

The 27 placements across Powys offers varying levels of support with preparation for independent living for young people who are vulnerable or at risk of homelessness, including care leavers.  

The seven new properties have helped the council to make savings of more than £200,000 last year.  

Living closer to home often allows the young people continue to access services, support and education in their local area leading to more positive outcomes.  

The feedback from young people includes: 

• They feel safe, more independent and cooking more for themselves.  
• They appreciated staff supporting them with budgeting and food shopping.  
• They feel more connected and informed about the future and that they were treated well 

Powys Reports Progress and Challenges on Path to Net Zero

LED light fittings and solar PV panels installed on county council buildings in Powys have helped cut yearly carbon emissions by 113.96 tonnes and reduce energy bills by around £130,000.

These are among the figures revealed in the Powys Net Zero Annual Report 2024, which will be presented to the county council’s Cabinet next week (Tuesday 15 July).

Key achievements for 2024 include:

• LED lighting: More than 3,600 fixtures replaced, saving 40,874kg CO₂e.
• EV (electric vehicle) infrastructure: £635,000 secured for extra capacity.
• Energy efficiency: Improved in more than 1,800 properties.
• Solar PV (photovoltaic) installations: 528 kW installed, saving 73,083kg CO₂e.
• Insulation and glazing: Significant upgrades across schools and community buildings.

Major projects and funding in 2024 include:

• Shared Prosperity Fund: £7.17 million allocated to more than 25 decarbonisation projects.
• Warm Wales Scheme: Improved energy efficiency in homes.
• Energy Redress Scheme: Supported community-owned renewables.
• Nature Recovery Action Plan: Developed to enhance biodiversity and green spaces.
• Severn Valley Water Management Scheme: Began tackling flood risk and water resilience.

However, despite these successes the council’s carbon emissions for the 2023-24 financial year went up by 5.2% to 90,272.77 tonnes.

This was in part due to:

• Inclusion of school transport data for the first time.
• Higher supply chain emissions.
• Fleet and business travel growth.

There were decreases though in:

• Commuting and homeworking emissions.
• Waste emissions (due to a move away from landfill).

The challenges to the council reaching net-zero by 2030, identified in the report, include:

• Budget constraints.
• Limited staffing and fixed-term roles.
• Lack of organisation-wide climate literacy.
• Uncosted action plans

Next steps for 2025-26, covered in the report, include:

• Developing a Net Zero Route Map and Carbon Management Plan.
• Finalising a Fleet Transition Plan and Low Carbon Heating Strategy.
• Expanding the county’s EV charging infrastructure and renewable installations.
• Improving data systems for emissions tracking.
• Strengthening supply chain sustainability and social value procurement.

The full report can be viewed online with the meeting papers for the Tuesday 15 July Cabinet meeting

Powys County Council frequently asked questions

Your questions, answered

Working for the council often means we hear comments about how we spend our money, why council tax keeps increasing, and much more. Many of the comments we hear are based on misinformation or assumptions.

So, we have put together a list of frequently asked questions on our website to address as many of the common questions as possible. Visit: Council Information: Your questions answered – Powys County Council

New easier way to apply for temporary event notices

People and organisations wanting permission to put on small-scale events for less than 500 people, in Powys, now have an easier way to apply through the county council’s website.

A TEN, or temporary event notice, is needed for events held at a place without a premises licence, or not covered by an existing licence, for up to seven days (168 hours).

The type of events covered might include:

• Plays or films
• Indoor sporting events, such as boxing or wrestling
• Live or recorded music
• Dancing, or dance performances
• Facilities for making music or dancing
• Sale or supply of alcohol
• Sale or supply of late-night refreshments (hot food and drink between 11pm and 5am)

More information on applying for a temporary event notice is available on the council’s website: https://en.powys.gov.uk/tens

Applications were previously submitted through a UK Government website, by email or post, but now need to be made using this online form: https://en.powys.gov.uk/tensubmit

Applicants must be at least 18-years-old.

Applications must be made at least 10 working days before an event is to be held and ideally sooner, to allow time for any disagreements to be resolved.

The cost of applying is £21, which has not changed.

People or organisations with further questions about temporary event notices should email: licensing@powys.gov.uk or phone: 01597 827389