June Update

28 Jun 2024

Fran Lister Profile Pic Fran Lister

I've started to handle some casework and am getting familiar with the appropriate officers to contact for various issues. My first case involved homelessness, which I hadn't expected in this ward. It highlighted the local affordable housing crisis, prompting some thought-provoking conversations with community members. Rest assured, your concerns have been heard.

Speed limits and sheep are other issues I've been contacted about. The speed limits over the mountain are quite sporadic. For example, the road between Pentre Halkyn and Brynford is 60mph until it abruptly drops to 20mph at the top of Bryn Sannan. Sadly, numerous lambs have been hit on this stretch of road this year. Residents are understandably concerned that the speed limit is too high, and I'm sure cyclists using Route 5 aren't thrilled with cars traveling at 60mph. I've written to Street Scene to request a review of this stretch and asked for some "Free Grazing Livestock" signs to be installed at the cattle grid crossing.

Sheep are persistent animals and tend to find their way to favorite spots, often down Pen Y Ball Hill and into Holywell. We desperately need a cattle grid to prevent this, and it's high on my priority list.

Health and Social Care Committee

Since the AGM, I now sit on three committees: Health and Social Care, Education, and Climate Change. I attended my first Health and Social Care meeting this month, where we discussed safeguarding adults and children. It was another moment that underscored the enormity of our responsibilities. Flintshire County Council has an excellent Social Services team, and they take their duty to protect vulnerable adults and children very seriously. We also discussed the Age-Friendly Flintshire initiative, which is highly relevant given that 47% of our ward's residents are over 55. Minimising isolation and loneliness is crucial, and transport links and digital competency are key challenges. For instance, booking the flexi bus requires internet access, which is problematic for elderly residents without it. I'm meeting with Sandra Donaghue next month for her input. In the meantime, if you know anyone who is isolated without digital means, please contact me. I’d like to drop off paper copies of local information to those in need.

The Brynford D-Day Celebration

The Brynford D-Day celebration was a fantastic evening on June 6th. We lit the beacon, and after local veteran Bryn read the D-Day proclamation, the bugle played the Last Post. It was a poignant and well-attended memorial. The Sunday family celebration was equally fantastic—well done to Brynford Community Council for organising such an inclusive event. Despite the weather, everyone enjoyed the line dancing, face painting, tombola, first aid display, and hot dogs (which my dog particularly enjoyed). My choir was thrilled to be part of it.

Concert at St. Paul’s Church

Another great concert was held at St. Paul’s Church by Cor Cilcain. This fantastic community hub is well supported by the local residents, thanks to a team of dedicated volunteers who keep this space vibrant and active.

Notes - Census Data

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