Powys County Councillor Report – April 2026 – Vale of Grwyney Community Council

Report by County Councillor Chloe Masefield

April 2026

Contents

Powys County Councillor Update. 1

Powys Council News. 1

Young people share powerful ideas to shape a fairer future for Powys. 1

Charities help 500 older people continue living independently at home. 2

New electric vans to boost recycling awareness and tackle environmental crime. 2

Powys pensioners could be missing out on benefits worth more than £1.6m.. 2

Helping young people through bereavement 4

Mid Wales moves forward on transport as Regional Transport Plan approved. 4

Council transforms housing repairs service – delivering a stronger, fairer, greener approach for tenants 5

Mid Wales Growth Deal secures further funding to support regional progress. 6

Mid Wales Growth Deal secures further funding to support regional progress. 7

Locally Relevant News

Gilwern bridge works

Gilwern Bridge is in a poor structural condition and concerns around structural capacity are currently being investigated by Monmouthshire County Council and their appointed engineers and consultants. As a precaution, the bridge, which was previously subject to a 7.5 tonne weight restriction, has been further restricted to a 3 tonne weight limit, with traffic limited to a single lane under temporary traffic signals.

The 3 tonne weight restriction and single lane arrangement will remain in place until the ongoing inspections and structural assessments are completed. Monmouthshire County Council’s medium term aspiration is that, subject to the outcome of these assessments, the bridge could be returned to its previous 7.5 tonne restriction with two way traffic operation, although this is yet to be determined.

Monmouthshire County Council has installed advance warning signage on the surrounding road network to alert motorists to the reduced weight limit and to direct heavier vehicles to alternative routes. Some additional signage is still to be installed. In terms of Powys roads, it has been suggested that further advance warning signage would be beneficial at Llangattock (near the Vine Tree on the C0136) and on the B4558 just north of Crickhowell Bridge. There was also a suggestion that advance warning signage be considered on the A4077 near the David Taylor garage, as this is viewed as the last practical opportunity for vehicles over the weight limit to turn.

I am also advised that Monmouthshire County Council is considering the use of cameras in or near Gilwern Bridge to monitor traffic movements and potentially deter non compliant vehicles.

Public meetings have already taken place, with further public engagement events likely to be held at Gilwern Community Hall in the near future. I have asked to be kept updated and can pass invitations on to Vale Of Grwyney Community Council if that is of interest.

In terms of enforcement of any weight restriction(s), this remains a matter for the Police. I have also requested that we’re kept informed and that direct liaison with PCC traffic engineers/manager should take place due to the nature of this cross border highways matter.

Community Transport

Working with the Crickhowell & District Community Transport group, we have submitted an application for a community bus to serve our area. The total grant amount is just below £100k. I will let you know the outcome when we hear. This bus will serve the rural communities with a service into Crickhowell and back.

A40 Resurfacing Works

Welsh Government and the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent (NMWTRA) have recognised the need for maintenance works of existing pavement and asset renewals throughout Crickhowell and will be undertaking a series of remedial measures and improvement works which are aimed at being delivered (subject to funding) over a 4-year period.

The first phase of works on the A40 from the junction at Castle Road to the zebra crossing by the Crickhowell Fire Station was successfully delivered in early 2025. The second phase of works on the A40 extends from the zebra crossing by the Crickhowell Fire Station to the access for the Asda petrol station. Works are planned to be undertaken between Monday 27^th April and Friday 19^th June 2026. Note: Further communications will be issued in advance of any subsequent phases to be delivered.

Due to the complexity of delivering the work, varying traffic management arrangements will be required throughout the programme. A detailed breakdown of the proposed restrictions and programme is provided below:

Details of Restrictions	Start Date and Time**	End Date and Time**	Notes
A40, from the egress of the Asda Petrol Station to just north of the access to the Co-op: Nighttime full closure when traffic flows are lower with two-way traffic signals on the junction with the A4077. Daytime lane closures under three-way traffic signal.	27/04/2026 19:00 05/05/2026 19:00 11/05/2026 19:00	01/05/2026 07:00 09/05/2026 07:00 13/05/2026 07:00	Nighttime works only between 19:00 to 07:00
A40, from the junction with High Street to the junction at Greenhill Way: Nighttime full closure when traffic flows are lower.	01/06/2026 19:00	05/06/2026 07:00	Nighttime works only between 19:00 to 07:00 Monday to Friday.
A40, from the egress of the Asda Petrol Station to just north of the access to the Co-op: Full weekend closure.	09/05/2026 07:00	11/05/2026 07:00	Weekend works including day and nighttime working.
A40, from the junction with High Street to the junction at Greenhill Way: Nighttime full closure when traffic flows are lower. Daytime lane closures under two-way traffic signals.	12/05/2026 19:00	16/05/2026 07:00	Nighttime works only between 19:00 to 07:00
A40, south of the access to the Co-op to the junction with High Street: Full weekend closure.	16/05/2026 07:00	18/05/2026 07:00	Weekend works including day and nighttime working.
A40, south of the access to the Co-op to the junction with High Street: Nighttime full closure when traffic flows are lower.	18/05/2026 19:00	21/05/2026 07:00	Nighttime works only between 19:00 to 07:00
A40, from the access to Asda Petrol Station to the junction with Greenhill Way: Nighttime full closure when traffic flows are lower	08/06/2026 19:00	19/06/2026 07:00	Nighttime works only between 19:00 to 07:00 Monday to Friday.

** dates provisional, may be subject to change

During the closure periods traffic will be diverted as follows –

Eastbound vehicular traffic from the western extent of the closure will be diverted via the westbound A40 to Brecon, southbound A470 to Merthyr Tydfil, eastbound A465 to Abergavenny and westbound A40 to the eastern extent of the closure: vice versa for westbound traffic. Non-vehicular traffic should wait at the closure points until they can be safely escorted/directed through the closed section. See Appendix A for Diversion Route Plan.

Traffic along the diversion route will be monitored to identify any issues / additional mitigation measures that may need to be considered.

The works will result in higher than usual levels of noise at intervals, with disruption to the traveling public, I wish to take this opportunity to apologise in advance for any inconvenience incurred.

During closure periods direct access to adjacent properties will be restricted. Letter drops to affected resident will be issued in advance to provide further details.

Emergency Services (Police / Fire / Ambulance)

All traffic (including Emergency Service vehicles) travelling in the area to utilise the appropriate diversion route(s).

Pride in Place Funding

I have been working with Cllr Claire and community members to put in a grant application for Pride in Place funding for town centre improvements in Crickhowell. This grant totals £88k and will include improved signage and amenity spaces.

Crickhowell Library and Sports Centre

I am part of the community groups working to secure the future of the Crickhowell library and sports centre. Currently, discussions are ongoing with Powys County Council officers, community members and other groups.

Powys Council News

Young people share powerful ideas to shape a fairer future for Powys

Young people from across Powys came together during the February half‑term for an inspiring countywide engagement event designed to put their ideas, energy and experiences at the heart of local decision‑making.

Organised by Powys County Council with PAVO as part of the wider Speak Truth to Powys project, the event in Llandrindod Wells brought together young people from communities right across the county – many of whom travelled long distances to take part and help shape positive change for their peers.

The discussions were driven by themes identified directly by young people, reflecting insights from more than 270 responses to a countywide survey organised by PAVO. Participants spoke about what matters most to them – from feeling a stronger sense of belonging, to safer communities, affordable and reliable transport, better access to health and mental‑health support, and more opportunities to take part in activities designed for their age group.

Throughout the day, young people offered clear, practical suggestions for how services and opportunities could be improved. Ideas ranged from more youth‑friendly communication and clearer information about activities and jobs, to safer transport options, reduced leisure centre fees and better support for young carers.

A strong message ran through every conversation: young people want to be heard, involved and part of shaping solutions.

Powys a better place for themselves and their peers gives me real hope for the future.

The county council and PAVO will now work directly with young people to develop both immediate actions and longer‑term improvements based on their ideas and priorities.

Charities help 500 older people continue living independently at home

East Radnor Home Support and Builth and Llanwrtyd Wells Home Support provided help on more than 14,000 occasions and saved more than £220,000 being spent on more costly health or social care options.

New electric vans to boost recycling awareness and tackle environmental crime

The council has expanded its low‑emission fleet with the arrival of three new Toyota Proace electric vans, supporting the Waste Awareness Team as they travel across the county promoting recycling, tackling littering, and helping to prevent fly‑tipping.

The zero‑emission vehicles were purchased from the local Toyota dealership in Builth Wells with funding from Welsh Government and will enable officers to reach communities more sustainably while helping reduce the council’s carbon footprint. With an impressive 210‑mile range the vans are ideally suited to the team’s work of engaging with residents, attending community events, and responding quickly to environmental issues across Powys.

The Waste Awareness Team plays a vital role in encouraging responsible waste behaviour, providing advice on local recycling services, and working with communities to reduce waste and keep neighbourhoods clean. The new vans will also support officers in their enforcement duties, including investigating fly‑tipping and addressing littering hotspots.

The council continues to explore opportunities to replace more of its fleet with ultra‑low‑emission vehicles in line with the recently adopted Sustainable Resource Strategy (Waste and Recycling) and the organisations wider environmental ambitions of becoming net zero by 2030. Further electric vehicles for recycling collections and street‑cleaning operations have already been ordered and are expected to arrive soon.

Powys pensioners could be missing out on benefits worth more than £1.6m

Just over 160 Powys residents are to receive a letter from the county council suggesting they check if they are eligible to receive Pension Credit.

The UK Government benefit is worth over £10,000 per year for a single person and more if it is being claimed by a couple. That amounts to a staggering £1.6 million, or more, that could be missing from the pockets of older Powys residents.

Those who think they may be eligible, can claim online: https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit/how-to-claim Or, phone: 0800 99 1234.

If you cannot hear or speak on the phone: 18001 then 0800 99 1234 through Relay UK.

British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service if you’re on a computer: https://connect.interpreterslive.co.uk/vrs?ilc=DWP
How to use the same service if you’re on a mobile or tablet: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oELNMfAvDxw

Powys County Council’s Money Advice Team can also help with the application process over the phone or in person at one of its offices, somewhere else in your local area, or even your own home.

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

These details can also be used to request free and confidential money advice at any time.

The other financial support, that claiming Pension Credit could help you qualify for:

Winter Fuel Payment
Cold Weather Payments
A free TV licence if you are 75 or older

If you get the Guarantee Credit part of Pension Credit it can also help you qualify for extra help with:

Rent costs

Paying Council Tax
Health costs, such as dental and optical treatment, and transport to and from hospital appointments

If older residents have long-term health, disability or care needs, they may also be able to apply for Attendance Allowance, which can be used to cover the cost of personal assistance or employing someone to complete tasks for them around the home.

More information on Attendance Allowance: https://www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance

Powys County Council has invested in intelligent data analytics software for a year called LIFT (Low Income Family Tracker), to help identify people in need of help.

It has used this to contact many residents over the last 12 months who it believes may be struggling financially or missing out on help they are entitled to receive.

This free and confidential help is still available to anyone who has been contacted, or anyone else in Powys who is facing financial difficulties.

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: moneyadvice@powys.gov.uk
Website: https://en.powys.gov.uk/moneyadvice

Helping young people through bereavement

A collection of bereavement books for children and young people is available to borrow through libraries across the county, the county council has said.

The carefully selected titles are designed to help children and young people understand grief and find comfort during difficult times.

Funded by Welsh Government, the collections provide gentle, age-appropriate support for those navigating grief and loss.

Four full sets of the books are held at Y Lanfa (Welshpool), Newtown, Llandrindod Wells and Y Gaer (Brecon), but the books are available to borrow through any Powys library.

Cllr Sandra Davies, Cabinet Member for Future Generations, said: “Grief can feel overwhelming for children, and having the right tools to help them make sense of their feelings is incredibly important. These books offer gentle, accessible support for families, and we want to make sure people know they are there to be used whenever they are needed.”

Cllr Raiff Devlin, Cabinet Member for Customers, Digital and Community Services, said: “Our libraries play a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of communities across Powys. We encourage parents, carers, schools and professionals to make full use of this collection. The books are available, free to borrow, and our staff are always on hand to help you find what you need.”

A full list of available titles, along with further information on bereavement support services, can be accessed by scanning the QR code on posters in libraries or by visiting:
https://en.powys.gov.uk/article/14339/Bereavement-Support

Books can also be browsed and reserved via the online library catalogue:
https://powys.spydus.co.uk/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/MSGTRN/OPAC/HOME/

Library staff are available to offer guidance and help families choose the most suitable resources

Mid Wales moves forward on transport as Regional Transport Plan approved

Developed by Growing Mid Wales, as the region’s Corporate Joint Committee (CJC), in partnership with Ceredigion and Powys County Councils, the Mid Wales Regional Transport Plan has now been approved by the Welsh Government. As a result, just over £13 million of funding has been allocated to improve transport across Mid Wales, as the region moves from strategic planning towards practical, on-the-ground improvements.

The majority of the funding is capital investment, meaning it will be spent on physical improvements focused on delivering transport infrastructure that improves everyday journeys. This includes investment in active travel, bus infrastructure, electric vehicle charging and targeted improvements to key routes and places across the region.

The funding builds directly on the priorities and evidence set out in the Mid Wales Regional Transport Plan, which aims to improve regional connectivity, support sustainable travel choices, and improve access to employment, services and communities in a predominantly rural region. It also reflects continued collaboration between Mid Wales local authorities through the CJC to deliver strategic transport improvements at a regional level.

The Regional Transport Plan has been shaped by engagement with communities, businesses and stakeholders across Mid Wales. A public consultation on the draft plan took place in early 2025, inviting people to share their experiences of travelling in the region and highlight priorities for improvement. Feedback highlighted the importance of safer walking and cycling routes, better public transport, improved rural connectivity and transport solutions that reflect the geography and character of Mid Wales, and this has directly informed the final plan and the schemes now being progressed.

Schemes being progressed include:

Phase 1 of Newtown Riverside active travel works
Phase 1 of Brecon to Groesffordd active travel improvements
Phase 1 of Brecon High Street transformation
Improvements to bus infrastructure across both local authorities
Expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure across both local authorities
Completion of Waunfawr to IBERS footway improvements
Phase 1 of Ridgeway Roundabout improvements

Online Link: https://www.growingmidwales.co.uk/article/21198/Mid-Wales-moves-forward-on-transport-as-Regional-Transport-Plan-approved

Council transforms housing repairs service – delivering a stronger, fairer, greener approach for tenants

Council tenants across Powys are benefitting from a transformed Housing Repairs and Maintenance Service, following Powys County Council’s decision to bring the service back in‑house in 2022.

Over the past three years, the council has rebuilt the service from the ground up – creating a stronger, more responsive and more reliable offer for the 5,500 households living in council homes across the county.

Since July 2022, the council has invested heavily in rebuilding a skilled in‑house workforce. What began with 31 tradespeople has grown to more than 70 by 2025 – dramatically increasing the team’s capacity to carry out repairs quickly and to a consistently high standard.

Local area‑based teams now work directly within communities, bringing local knowledge, closer communication and faster decision‑making. Tenants are experiencing fewer delays, better coordination and more repairs completed first‑time.

Void performance is one of the clearest signs of the service transformation since repairs and maintenance came back in‑house. The works period on empty properties has fallen to as low as 37 days at points during 2023/24, while overall end‑to‑end times and the number of voids held have also improved.

This means more homes are available sooner for people waiting for housing, rent loss has fallen well below expected levels, and tenants are moving into homes that meet a clear, council‑agreed Quality of Accommodation Standard.

Tenants are reporting a much better experience. Improvements in call‑handling, clearer communication and stronger customer service have led to rising satisfaction levels, backed up by increasing compliments to the repairs and call‑handling teams.

The Tenant Scrutiny Panel has praised the transformation and highlighted the professionalism, reliability and courtesy of council staff.

The new in‑house model is supporting the council’s ambition to deliver a Stronger, Fairer, Greener Powys. By reducing reliance on external contractors, the service is lowering costs, cutting travel‑based emissions and keeping more work – and skills – within the county.

A county‑wide stock condition survey, the first of its kind in Powys, is now underway. This will help ensure homes remain energy‑efficient, safe and future‑ready, supporting the Welsh Housing Quality Standard 2023.

The council is also investing in apprenticeships and training to build a long‑term, sustainable workforce with the skills needed to maintain homes for years to come.

Mid Wales Growth Deal secures further funding to support regional progress

Growing Mid Wales has welcomed the release of a further tranche of funding, £11.857m, from the UK and Welsh Governments through the Mid Wales Growth Deal — reinforcing their continued commitment to the region and supporting progress as projects move through development towards delivery.

The latest tranche of Growth Deal funding reflects sustained joint investment and confidence by both governments and marks an important step forward as the programme continues to build momentum. A number of projects across Mid Wales are progressing through business case development and approvals, moving the Growth Deal further towards delivery on the ground.

Councillor Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, and Councillor Jake Berriman, Leader of Powys County Council, Co-Chairs of the Growing Mid Wales Board, said: “This latest tranche of funding demonstrates the continued momentum behind the Mid Wales Growth Deal, with investment supporting projects as they move closer to delivery.

The Growth Deal is focused on creating long-term economic opportunities for the region — supporting jobs, improving infrastructure and enabling sustainable growth. This further funding reinforces the shared commitment from both governments and gives confidence as projects continue to progress through development towards implementation.”

Anna McMorrin, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Wales Office, said: “The UK Government’s continued investment through the Mid Wales Growth Deal underlines our commitment to supporting economic growth across the region. This further tranche of funding provides confidence and stability as projects progress towards delivery, helping ensure that businesses and communities can benefit from improved infrastructure, increased productivity and new opportunities.”

Rebecca Evans, Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, said: “This latest tranche of Growth Deal funding demonstrates the strength of our partnership working and our shared commitment to Mid Wales. As projects move closer to delivery, this investment helps maintain momentum and supports the development of high-quality infrastructure that will enable sustainable, inclusive growth across the region.”

The Mid Wales Growth Deal forms part of the wider Growing Mid Wales vision to drive sustainable economic growth across the region. Supported by a combined commitment of £110m from the UK and Welsh Governments, the Deal aims to leverage further public and private investment of over £300 million, creating long-term jobs and increase productivity across Mid Wales.

As the programme continues to progress, further updates will be shared as projects move through approval and into delivery.

£2.5m investment to tackle potholes on Powys roads

Powys County Council has announced a major boost to its highway maintenance programme, due to an additional £2.5 million of general capital investment from Welsh Government which the council have chosen to use to accelerate improvements, strengthen road resilience, and deliver long lasting repairs across the county’s road network.

The funding arrives at a critical time for Powys’ 5,500km network, which continues to face growing pressure from severe weather, historic underinvestment, rising material costs and unresolved drainage issues. Earlier this year, the council took decisive action by allocating an additional £1.2 million in revenue funding for 2025/26 to restart essential recurring drainage works.

Since the start of the financial year, Powys’ Highways teams have already delivered substantial progress, including:

149,508 metres of ditching opened and cleared to improve drainage
152,593 metres of siding cut back to restore full carriageway width
9,457 grips reinstated to help water drain safely off the road
8,853 gullies emptied, inspected and repaired where needed

These early works have already improved drainage performance, increased network resilience and reduced the risk of water‑related deterioration.

The new £2.5m allocation will enable the council to scale up structural maintenance, including purchasing specialist machinery designed to cut, crop and clean defects in the road surface efficiently, enabling more durable road repairs.

By improving key transport routes and reducing repeat repairs, this investment will strengthen rural connectivity and deliver a safer, more reliable and sustainable road network, supporting the council’s ambition for a stronger, fairer and greener Powys.

Digital transformation for a smarter, more connected Powys

A revised Digital Strategy sets out the council’s commitment to deliver smarter, more connected public services for Powys.

Powys County Council has approved its Digital Strategy 2026–2030, outlining how it will deliver faster, simpler and more sustainable services for the people of Powys.

Building on the success of the previous strategy, the updated plan keeps pace with digital change, supports the needs of residents while supporting a Stronger, Fairer and Greener Powys.

The Digital Strategy set’s out five core themes that will support digital transformation over the next four years:

Digital Anytime – Expand our self-service digital tools so residents can find information, submit requests and complete tasks online 24/7.
Innovative Technology – Continuously explore AI capabilities to enhance services and lead the way in digital innovation for future generations.
Data and Insights – Use data to design services and make informed decisions based on evidence to see what’s happening in communities, spot trends and plan services proactively.
Digital Infrastructure and Cyber Security – Ensure systems are modern, secure, reliable and able to support safe innovation across the council.
Digital Futures – Help residents, staff, businesses and community organisations build the digital skills they need to thrive and reduce digital exclusion, so no one is left behind.

The full Digital Strategy 2026–2030 will be published on the Powys County Council website – https://en.powys.gov.uk/digitalstrategy

Ambitious investment plans set to boost council housing across Powys

A £270m programme to build new council homes and upgrade existing ones has been approved, setting out how Powys County Council will invest in its housing stock over the next five years.

Cabinet approved the latest At Home in Powys – Housing Business Plan on Tuesday, March 2026, confirming continued investment in new, energy‑efficient homes and ensuring current council homes remain safe, modern and high quality.

Under the plan, more than 350 new council homes will be built by 2030/31 as part of an investment worth over £195m. A further £46m will be spent over the next five years to maintain and improve existing homes so they continue to meet the Welsh Housing Quality Standard.

Several targeted programmes will support this work, including:

Compliance One Hundred – Over £10.5m to ensure council homes and related assets meet all relevant legislation and regulation.
Green Powys – Over £9.9m to improve energy efficiency, reduce fuel poverty, cut carbon emissions and support greener, more sustainable estates.
Fit for Life – Almost £4.3m to adapt homes for older residents and people with mobility‑related health needs.
Love Where You Live – More than £6.7m to enhance estates and improve wellbeing across communities

Powys County Council Marks Endometriosis Action Month

Powys County Council has marked Endometriosis Action Month by continuing its commitment to raising awareness, supporting staff and championing better understanding of endometriosis in the workplace and beyond.

As an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, the council recognises the impact the condition can have on people’s working lives and is working to tackle stigma, improve conversations and ensure staff know where to find support.

During March, the council’s Endometriosis Workplace Champion, Lowri Shepstone, took part in a range of local, regional and national activities to highlight the importance of awareness, early understanding and workplace support. Alongside her full-time role at the council, Lowri volunteers her time to support people affected by endometriosis and to campaign for better understanding of the condition.

This included attending the Senedd with Endometriosis UK, where campaigners, and volunteers met with Senedd Members to discuss endometriosis care in Wales and the importance of joined‑up support across health services, employers and communities.

Within the council, staff were supported through a Wellbeing Wednesday article sharing practical information about endometriosis and signposting to a dedicated toolkit for staff, managers and councillors. The toolkit brings together trusted resources to help teams better understand symptoms, reasonable adjustments and how to have supportive conversations at work.

Lowri also spoke at the launch of the Powys Women’s Health Hub, representing Powys County Council as an Endometriosis Friendly Employer and attended a national Endometriosis Friendly Employer event in London hosted by Hannah Du Beke and Anton Du Beke, bringing together employers and organisations from across the UK to share learning and good practice.

Community support remained a key focus throughout the month, with Lowri hosting a Mid Wales Endometriosis UK Support Group meeting to provide a safe space for people to connect, share experiences and access reliable information.

Paul Bradshaw, Head of People at Powys County Council, said: “Endometriosis Action Month is not just about raising awareness – it’s about making a real difference. We’re proud of the council’s ongoing commitment as an Endometriosis Friendly Employer and of the dedication shown by staff who help drive this work forward.”

Lowri Shepstone, Endometriosis Workplace Champion at Powys County Council and Endometriosis UK’s Mid Wales Support Group Leader said: “Endometriosis Action Month is really important to me, both personally and as a volunteer. I’m proud that Powys County Council continues to show leadership as an Endometriosis Friendly Employer and helps create a culture where people feel supported to talk openly about their health.

Powys County Council signed up to the Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme, led by Endometriosis UK, to demonstrate its commitment to supporting staff and fostering a culture where women’s health can be discussed openly and respectfully at work.

Endometriosis Action Month takes place every March, but the council’s commitment to supporting staff with endometriosis continues throughout the year.

Powys County Council wins at edie Sustainability Awards 2026 for ‘Warm Powys’ partnership

Recognition: Powys County Council and partners won at the 2026 edie Sustainability Awards in the Projects & Innovations – Partnership & Collaboration: Clean Energy Pathways category for its ‘Warm Powys’ project at an award ceremony on 12^th March 2026. It was short listed against eight other projects from around the UK.

About the awards: The edie Awards are the UK’s largest corporate sustainability awards and widely known as the “Oscars of sustainable business,” showcasing measurable impact and innovation across 23 categories.

edie judges’ comments: “This thoughtful collaboration provides a replicable model for rural domestic energy efficiency retrofit, with continuous improvement. It is a great showcase of partnerships benefitting the local authority and community.”

Warm Powys impact:

Utilised ECO Flex (Energy Company Obligation) funding to upgrade low energy‑performing homes.
Delivered 8,100+ measures across 1,000+ private sector properties.
Pioneered many UK firsts with measures/actions outside the scope of ordinary ECO: Domestic battery storage. Energy Advocacy home visits to optimise equipment. 12-year servicing, unlimited warranty and remotely monitoring of heat pumps. Completion EPCs. Removal of redundant oil and LPG tanks. Independent customer satisfaction surveys.
Secured £35m+ outside investment into Powys.
Outcomes: improved housing quality and resident health, reduced fuel poverty, contribution to net zero targets. Most properties EPC ratings raised from G, F, E to a high B or low A.
93% Customer satisfaction rates.
Ranked #1 by UK Government in the UK for delivery of ECO-Flex. (ECO4 was a £4 billion UK-wide programme which ran in Powys from November 2022 until November 2025)

Forward look: ECO has ended at the Autum budget; we await the Warm Homes Plan and will assess opportunities to continue delivery in the Private Sector at scale.

Warm Powys Webpage: Warm Powys – Powys County Council

edie Awards webpage: edie Awards 2026

🚛♻️ Update on waste and recycling collections

Thank you for your patience and support as we continue to roll out the new waste and recycling collection routes across the county.

As you know, route optimisation is carried out periodically to ensure we are making the best use of our vehicles, crews, and bulking locations, while delivering the most efficient service possible for residents. The last full review was in 2018, and since then a number of changes have taken place, including:

New housing developments
Updates to the fleet and vehicle types
Different bulking locations
Shifts in waste and recycling habits

Increased recycling participation means residual waste vehicles are filling more slowly, while recycling vehicles are filling more quickly. The mix of recyclable materials has also changed, with higher volumes of plastics and cans, and less glass. These factors all influence how routes need to be structured.

New routes often take a little longer in the early weeks while crews adjust to the changes. As they become more familiar with the revised routes, the collection process will settle down and become more efficient.

As expected with changes of this scale, we are experiencing some early teething issues. These include crews being unable to complete routes or, in some cases, missed collections. We recognise the inconvenience this causes and are working hard to resolve issues as quickly as possible. Our teams are:

Reviewing daily reports from crews and residents
Providing additional support to areas experiencing delays
Making adjustments to routes where needed
Ensuring missed collections are returned to promptly

Your continued support in sharing accurate, timely feedback from residents is greatly appreciated. Please continue to pass on any issues so that we can address them quickly.

Further information, including FAQs, collection days and dates, and details of arrangements for missed collections, is available at: www.powys.gov.uk/binday

Council calls on pubs, cafés and restaurants to apply for business rates support

Powys businesses operating within the food and drink hospitality sectors are being urged by the county council to apply for a rate relief scheme that could see their business rates bill reduce in the current financial year.

The Business Rates Food and Drink Hospitality Rates Relief scheme for financial year 2026/27, which is administered by Powys County Council, is offering 15% discount off rate bills to eligible businesses.

The Welsh Government has provided funding of £197,000 to the council for the scheme and up to 200 Powys businesses may qualify for the discount.

Businesses must be operating within the pub, bar, restaurant, cafe or live music venue sector. The scheme will apply to all eligible ratepayers with a total relief cap for all business properties up to a maximum of £110,000.

The rate relief scheme is available until 31 March 2027. Businesses who meet the eligibility criteria must apply to receive the rate relief.

Further information on the scheme, including the application form and how to apply, can be found online by searching Business Rates Food and Drink Hospitality Rates Relief 2026 / 2027 at www.powys.gov.uk

Powys County Council urges suppliers to register for new procurement requirements

Powys County Council is reminding suppliers that registration on the UK Government’s Central Digital Platform is now a mandatory requirement for organisations wishing to provide goods, works or services to the Council.

The requirement forms part of the Procurement Act 2023 and associated Procurement (Wales) Regulations 2024, which introduce a new national approach to public sector procurement.

Under the new legislation, all suppliers must be registered on the Central Digital Platform and obtain a Unique Supplier Reference Code, also known as a Unique Supplier ID or Public Procurement Organisation Number (PPON).

The Central Digital Platform enables public sector bodies to access validated supplier information and helps ensure procurement processes are transparent, consistent and compliant across the UK.

To support suppliers with these changes, Powys County Council is working in collaboration with Business Wales to deliver a series of fully funded online training sessions titled Public Sector Procurement: Getting Fit to Tender Under New Legislation. The sessions will help suppliers understand the new requirements and support them to register on the Central Digital Platform. The sessions will cover:

How to register on the Central Digital Platform
What suppliers need to know about tendering under the new legislation
Key steps to help businesses prepare for future public sector opportunities

The fully funded online sessions will take place on 15, 22 and 29 April 2026, running over lunchtime from 1:00pm to 2:30pm.

Suppliers only need to attend one session, as they all cover the same content. Places can be booked via the Business Wales Events Finder: Click to Register

Further guidance and support is available through Powys County Council’s website https://en.powys.gov.uk/article/21289/Registering-on-the-Central-Digital-Platform-CDP-for-your-Unique-Supplier-ID–PPON-Step-by-Step-Supplier-Guide and via the upcoming Business Wales sessions.

Clean energy investment strengthens Powys’ public estate

Major clean energy and energy efficiency improvements have been completed across Powys County Council’s property estate, cutting carbon emissions, reducing running costs, and strengthening the resilience of essential public services.

Supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and the Welsh Government, the programme has delivered a wide range of upgrades across council buildings, including solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, battery storage, LED lighting, enhanced energy monitoring and electric vehicle charging points.

In total, solar PV systems have been installed at 17 sites, providing a combined capacity of 694 kWp, alongside 573 kWh of battery storage. Together, these measures are projected to save approximately 600,000 kWh of energy every year and reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 170 tCO₂e annually

‘Supportive employers can make being a foster carer so much easier’

More businesses are being urged to follow the lead of the Marches Business Group in Llandrindod Wells by becoming a Foster Wales Partner in Powys.

That’s because nearly 40 per cent of foster carers combine fostering with other work. And those that do this, say that having a supportive employer can make all the difference when it comes to finding a balance between the two roles.

By becoming a Foster Wales Partner in Powys, businesses commit to:

Understanding and promoting fostering
Supporting foster carers and care-experienced young people

Helping find the right homes for some of the most vulnerable children in our communities

If your business is interested in becoming a Foster Wales Partner in Powys, email: fostering@Powys.gov.uk or call: 0800 22 30 627.

Find out more about fostering in Powys: https://powys.fosterwales.gov.wales/

Find out more about being a supportive employer in Wales: https://fosterwales.gov.wales/fostering-friendly-employers-in-wales/

Find out more about the Marches Business Group: https://www.marchesbusinessgroup.co.uk/

Support with heating costs

Additional support is now available to help residents in financial crisis who are struggling with the rising cost of heating oil in Wales. The Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF) already provides support for people experiencing fuel poverty and needing help to purchase off-grid fuel. Anyone aged 16 or over with an address in Wales who is facing an unexpected financial emergency can apply for assistance with their heating oil costs. To respond to the current pressures on households, the Welsh Government has increased the level of support available for heating oil: • The maximum award per application has been temporarily increased from £500 to £750 while prices remain high. • The number of times a person can receive this support has also been increased. Instead of one award in a 12-month period, individuals can now receive up to two awards, at least three months apart. We have a note on the Powys web page Notice: Support is available for rising heating oil costs. – Powys County Council Customers can apply to the DAF via this link : https://www.gov.wales/discretionary assistance-fund-daf To get a grant, customers must: • be in extreme financial hardship, for example you’ve lost your job, applied for benefits and waiting for your first payment and have no other means of financial support • be experiencing an unexpected crisis has resulted in you not having money to buy food, gas and/or electricity or other essential items • be in a crisis situation and in need of immediate financial support • live in Wales • be over 16 (there is no upper age limit for this grant) • have no other money for example savings Any vulnerable customers can request assistance to apply from our Money Advice Team Need help with Money Advice or Macmillan Support? – Powys County Council – Tel 01597 826618 Council tenants can also get help from our Financial Support Officers – Tel 01597 827464 Welsh Govt statement – Written Statement: Support available to help with the cost of living (18 March 2026) | GOV.WALES

“Stars of the Shelves” Returns to Inspire Hundreds of Young Readers Across Powys

A popular children’s reading initiative has returned to Powys after last year’s success, inspiring hundreds of young people to enjoy books, creativity and storytelling, the county council has said.

Stars of the Shelves, funded by the Welsh Government and coordinated by the Books Council of Wales, brought well-known authors to local libraries for interactive workshops, with this year’s programme ending on 31st March.

Authors including Siôn Tomos Owen, the current Bardd Plant Cymru, Eloise Williams, Nicola Davies, the current Children’s Laureate for Wales, Jenny Valentine, Lucy Owen and Rhian Cadwaladr have all taken part, delivering lively sessions aimed at inspiring readers and budding writers aged seven to 12.

The response from schools and pupils has been overwhelmingly positive. More than 500 children from over 20 schools across Powys have taken part, many enjoying the rare opportunity to meet published authors, ask questions, and learn more about the writing process.

As well as sparking imagination and creativity, the project has encouraged hundreds of children to visit their local libraries, with many stepping inside for the first time.

Library staff hope the experience will help build lasting connections and give young people the confidence to return regularly.