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The decisions as the council's minutes record them. A plain-language summary follows once it has been written.
RESOLVED to appoint Councillor Elin Walker Jones as Chair for 2026/27. Councillor Elin Walker Jones read and signed the declaration accepting the post of Chair of Cyngor Gwynedd for 2026/27, in the presence of the Chief Executive.
RESOLVED to adopt the Cyngor Gwynedd Plan 2023-28 – 2026/27 Review
RESOLVED to adopt ‘Gwynedd 2035: An Economy that Works for All' as an economic development strategy for Gwynedd.
RESOLVED 1. To publish the Gwynedd Visitor Levy Proposal Report. 2. To agree to hold a consultation on the Proposal to introduce a Levy in accordance with the list of consultees in paragraphs 5.4 and 5.5 of this report. 3. To inform the Welsh Revenue Authority, in accordance with the statute, of the intention to consult on the introduction of a Levy in Gwynedd.
RESOLVED to agree to: · adopt the list of committees and sub-committees to be established for the municipal year as set out in Appendix A, together with the adoption of the seat allocation and senior salaries set out in the appendix. · delegate authority to the Head of Democracy Services to make appointments to the committees based on political balance, and in accordance with the wishes of the political groups. · adopt the chairpersonships of scrutiny committees based on political balance as follows: o Education and Economy Scrutiny Committee – Plaid Cymru Group o Communities Scrutiny Committee – Independent Group o Care Scrutiny Committee – Independent Group
RESOLVED to appoint Carys Edwards and Neil Hawkins as Independent Members of the Standards Committee for a period of 6 years.
RESOLVED to adopt the motion, namely:- I want to express deep and passionate concern about the current Ordnance Survey (OS) policy, which is leading to the deletion, undermining and ignoring of Welsh place names that have been part of our landscape for centuries. Ordnance Survey maps currently: · Replace historical Welsh names with English forms that have no basis or tradition, e.g. The Mushroom Garden for Coed Cerrig y Frân, Heather Terrace Path for Llwybr Gwregys. · Place English names alongside Welsh names, creating the impression that the Welsh names are optional or secondary, e.g. Cwm Cneifion / Nameless Cwm, Bala Lake / Llyn Tegid. ’Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa (despite the fact that Eryri National Park Authority no longer uses the name Snowdon.)' This Council criticises these practices, as they contribute directly to the loss of Welsh names, and therefore undermine our language, history and national identity. When the Ordnance Survey adopts an English name, it appears on websites, signs, publications, and media and as a result, the Welsh name is pushed aside. This happens even among young Welsh speakers, who are often led to believe that the English name is the "standard". This is how language is weakened, not in a single strike, but in a thousand small steps. Welsh place names are part of our cultural DNA. They tell the story of the land, the people, the legends, the work, the life. No one has the right to delete or replace them. Therefore, I want to propose to this Council today that we: 1. Write to the Ordnance Survey to call on them to put an end to the current harmful policy, and to adopt a clear and simple principle and to use only Welsh language landscape place names on maps in Wales. 2. Call on the Welsh Government to intervene formally and to ensure that the Ordnance Survey respects and protects historic Welsh names. 3. Call on the other Welsh Authorities to follow this proposal. This is not just a matter of maps. It is a matter of identity, respect and cultural justice. (B) Submitted – the following notice of motion by the Council Leader under Section 4.19 of the Constitution, and it was seconded. No observations were received. RESOLVED to adopt the motion, namely:- The Council marks the murder of Member of Parliament, Jo Cox on 16/06/2016, ten years ago this year. (David Amess MP was also murdered on 15/10/2021). In a world that is increasingly violent and aggressive, it is sad that elected members, of all parties and at all levels of government, are increasingly exposed to insults and abuse. Recent research shows that 72% of Councillors have experienced some form of threat – whether verbal or worse – in the last 12 months. This Council believes that threatening or violent behaviour has no place in politics. Cyngor Gwynedd Councillors are committed to modelling the highest standards of respect and courtesy when dealing with each other and with the public, and we want the same respect to be shown towards us. We call on members of this Council and members of Community and Town Councils throughout Gwynedd to support the One Voice Wales, NALC and SLCC "Pledge of Respect and Courtesy" campaign.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to appoint Councillor Elin Walker Jones as Chair for 2026/27. Councillor Elin Walker Jones read and signed the declaration accepting the post of Chair of Cyngor Gwynedd for 2026/27, in the presence of the Chief Executive.
Two names were proposed and seconded for the chairpersonship, namely Councillor Elin Walker Jones and Councillor Beth Lawton. RESOLVED to appoint Councillor Elin Walker Jones as Chair for 2026/27. Councillor Elin Walker Jones read and signed the declaration accepting the post of Chair of Cyngor Gwynedd for 2026/27, in the presence of the Chief Executive.
Two names were proposed and seconded for the post of Vice-chair, namely Councillor Elfed P Roberts and Councillor Delyth Lloyd Griffiths. RESOLVED to appoint Councillor Delyth Lloyd Griffiths as Vice-Chair for 2026/27
Apologies were received from Councillors Anwen Davies, Alan Jones Evans, Gareth Coj Parry, Glyn Daniels and Gwion Emyr.
The Chair signed the minutes of the previous meeting of the Council held on 5 March 2026 as a true record.
A declaration of interest was received from the following Councillors: Anne Lloyd Jones, Beth Lawton, Annwen Hughes, Dafydd Davies, Wendy Cleaver, Elwyn Edwards, Elwyn Jones, Linda Morgan, Elfed Williams and John Pughe Roberts for item 11 – Tourism Levy. It was a prejudicial interest, and they withdrew from the meeting for this item.
Councillors Louise Hughes and Arwyn Herald Roberts were welcomed following a period of ill-health. All elected Members of the Senedd were congratulated, and specifically Beca Brown, who had stepped down from her role as the Councillor for Llanrug, as well as former members of this Council – Sian Gwenllian and Mair Rowlands. It was noted that a by-election would take place in Llanrug in the next few weeks. Attention was drawn to the fact that the Council had signed and launched Twf – a Welsh Language at Work Charter jointly with TUC Cymru, GMB and Unite. It was explained that the Council was the first Council in Wales to do so. Congratulations were expressed on this pioneering plan that evidenced the successful joint working between the Council and the trade unions in Gwynedd. Congratulations were also noted to: · Caernarfon Football Club who had recently won the Welsh Cup. · Ysgol Glan y Môr and Ysgol y Moelwyn pupils for coming first and second in a Tasty Careers competition following some mentoring by Tom from Swig Smoothies. The best of luck was wished to all children and young people from across the county who would be competing in the Urdd National Eisteddfod at the end of the month.
None to note.
(The Cabinet Members' written responses to the questions had been published in advance.) (1) Question by Councillor Jina Gwyrfai Something which is a matter of concern to many of us is the marked increase in the number of learners in our schools who are being excluded due to unacceptable, dangerous or threatening behaviour. Nevertheless, it is a statutory duty for all children to receive education up to the age of 16. Exclusion is therefore meant to be temporary, and the Education Department – in conjunction with other Agencies – has a range of strategies to deal with these learners, with the aim of enabling the learners to return to school and continue to receive an education that will equip them into the future. Could you outline all the strategies available in Gwynedd to deal with these young people; and provide data to show a) the scale of the problem, and b) how effective the current provision is? Response from the Cabinet Member for Education, Councillor Dewi Jones He responded by noting that he shared the concerns and that there was unacceptable and concerning behaviour across the county. It was expressed that support needed to be given to the children who are unable to cope at school for various reasons, but it was emphasised that these are a small number. He highlighted that there was some positivity, with the numbers being excluded decreasing and that the department's new way of looking at inclusion had contributed to this. He drew attention to the two centres which are in Llanwnda and in Dyffryn Nantlle to support the young people. It was explained that 220 young people were open to services, and that more cases had been closed this year than had been opened. It was noted that the problem was far from being resolved but that it was going in the right direction. Supplementary Question from Councillor Jina Gwyrfai She thanked the member for the answer, but she had one minor thing to raise, the children who are on a part-time timetable – she asked what happened during the rest of the time and who was responsible for their care while a parent had to work. Response from the Cabinet Member for Education, Councillor Dewi Jones It was noted that a number of services were available and that each case was treated individually. It was reiterated that workers were working with children and families to find the appropriate solution to the individual case. It was reiterated that cases sometimes took time to ensure the children were back in school full time. (2) Question by Councillor Rhys Tudur Housing Associations have recently obtained or are seeking permission for the erection of an unprecedented number of houses in individual applications in the villages of Dwyfor, Botwnnog (18), Trefor (20), Nefyn (20), Chwilog (25), Yy Ffôr (27), Abererch (24), in the face of local opposition of developments that are beyond a scale that is suitable for the size of the villages and which double the number of social housing there overnight and challenge the viability of the Welsh language. Is there any evidence to show that the Council is now listening and that it is not completely deaf to those local voices, particularly when the community councils have opposed the applications and when petitions with over 150 names have been collected? Response from the Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, Councillor Paul Rowlinson The planning committee is required to make decisions within a legal framework. This means determining applications in accordance with the development plan unless material planning considerations indicate otherwise. It must also be ensured that these findings are reasonable and have a clear evidence base. The number or origin of support or opposition is not in itself a relevant planning consideration. However, full consideration will be given to relevant planning considerations that emerge from comments received in response to consultations on planning applications, including observations form the public, the Community Council and other consultees. Affordable housing developments are a key part of the Council's Housing Action Plan which has been approved by the Cabinet, with the aim of developing 700 affordable homes by the end of the 2020/21-2028/29 Plan's life. Gwynedd was in a housing crisis, and affordable housing developments were responding to the significant need that had been identified across the county, with 4,107 individuals currently on the housing register. The Council is successful in attracting around £13m of grant funding each year, which enables the Council to provide housing options to those in need of a home by working closely with the Housing Associations as part of the Council's successful Housing Partnership. Supplementary Question from Councillor Rhys Tudur Given that Welsh is a minority language which is under pressure from the most powerful language in the world and that building estates of 15 - 20 houses at a time in small villages is too much of a challenge to the viability of the Welsh language, on the ability to linguistically scrutinise, and that the percentage of Welsh speakers in the county has fallen at the same time as the Local Development Plan and that Community Council petitions unanimously oppose and voice the linguistic concern. Are we saying that the views of the petitioners, Community Councils and local Councillors are all completely wrong and irrelevant, or will the Council ensure that we obtain language data for waiting lists and that we want to change the Development Plan so that 15 - 20 houses can be built in small villages only in extremely exceptional circumstances. Response from the Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, Councillor Paul Rowlinson. He replied by emphasising that the council's actions were based on facts and evidence, and that Councillors had a role to show leadership to express the facts to the public so that public opinion was based on firm foundations. It was expressed that many people do not want to have social housing in their areas but the Council had a duty to meet the need, and there are over 4 thousand people on social housing waiting lists. It was noted that the Local Development Plan identifies the number of people staying in each area, and that there has been a positive linguistic impact to date because of the Housing Development Plan. It was added that a report that went to the Language Committee showed that there was a higher percentage of Welsh speakers in the new estates compared to surrounding communities. It was noted that questions about language cannot be asked as part of the process of allocating housing in accordance with regulations. Pride was expressed to see new leadership in the Welsh Government who will hopefully legislate to have a home for all and build thousands of new social housing to tackle the housing crisis. (3) Question by Councillor Gruffydd Williams Following the fact that article 4 was quashed by a court because of what was ruled as misleading content from this Council, I previously asked whether this Council was going to apologise to campaigners who fought so hard to get article 4 in force, and there was no apology. The Council's right of appeal has now been refused. Therefore, is the Council finally going to apologise to the campaigners for article 4, patriots, linguists and taxpayers, following the fact that it is now clear that a shortcoming in the key paperwork caused Article 4 to be quashed and that a sum of money of over half a million has been wasted. Response from the Cabinet Member for the Environment, Councillor Craig ab Iago He thanked him for the question and noted that he had not changed his mind. He guided the members along the journey in terms of Article 4 from the first stages of creating a report from internal work looking at the impact of second homes and empty properties, to a public campaign that had highlighted the problem further, to the Article coming into force, to a legal challenge, to losing the legal challenge and to losing the appeal. It was highlighted that the Judge had noted that the documents submitted were not sufficiently clear and explicit and therefore the decision was quashed. It was reiterated that the decision was not due to a lack of evidence or the local need for action but was rather the definition and use of words that gave rise to the decision. He expressed that he would not apologise and that he did not understand who would help him. Supplementary Question from Councillor Gruffydd Williams Given the response and the continuing inability to apologise and also the significant financial waste that arose as a result of the papers being judged as misleading, the Council's failure to formally state exactly where the failure in the oversight process had occurred and what level of organisational oversight should have ensured the accuracy of the papers in order to prevent this waste from occurring and as the court of appeal and the high court had ruled against the Council in this matter, and that the cabinet member's reply was reluctant to focus on the Council's facts. Does he believe that the courts' ruling was wrong, that the Council knows better than the judge, if he doesn't believe this, then when will he apologise? Response from the Cabinet Member for the Environment, Councillor Craig ab Iago It was expressed that it was not part of his job to disagree with the Judge, but his job was to help local people to live in their communities. As a Cabinet member at the time, he was aware of the decision but the Judge’s opinion disagreed. He stated that apologising did not assist anyone and believed that it was not a waste of time as he was here to assist people to live in their communities, to be innovative and to prioritise local needs.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to adopt the Cyngor Gwynedd Plan 2023-28 – 2026/27 Review
The Leader of the Council presented the report stating that the plan was a map that will guide the way to where the Council wishes it to be. It was emphasised that the priorities included an equal, prosperous, caring, and efficient Gwynedd. Particular attention was drawn to the new priority of An Equal Gwynedd. It was highlighted that exercising the principle of treating everyone fairly was at the heart of everything and that projects such as Women in Leadership would address the barriers that limit people's opportunities. It was explained that the Plan had been adopted five years ago, and with the world changing so rapidly it was natural to review and update the Plan. It was noted that workshops had been held at the beginning of the year with Cabinet Members to agree on alterations before sharing with all the members to receive their comments. It was added that many of the comments and suggestions had been incorporated into the plan. The priority area of Tomorrow's Gwynedd was highlighted, emphasising its importance to ensuring the best start for the children and young people of Gwynedd. Along with that it was added that it was very important that Gwynedd was a child friendly and trauma informed county and the Deputy Leader was thanked for his leadership in this area. A new project was highlighted in the priority of A Welsh Gwynedd, namely 'Returning to Gwynedd' (Nôl i Wynedd) which aimed to strengthen the population of Gwynedd to contribute to vibrant communities and growth in the use of the Welsh language. It was noted that the Response Plan: Our Bravery Brought Justice had been included at the beginning of the Plan to underline the fact that this work was an ongoing commitment. All the members, the Council's workforce, partners and communities were thanked for working hard for the county and the residents. Members were given an opportunity to ask questions and offer observations. A member was pleased with the introduction of the new priority, and that it was a step forward to do things differently, to listen to the voices of residents and that decisions were made with everyone in mind and not always the majority. Attention was drawn to the work being done to create a child friendly county with trauma awareness and that this was having a positive impact on the children of Gwynedd. It was stressed that work had been done but that there was more to be done. It was expressed that Llechen Lân's vision highlighted the Council's desire to think and invest in the future, with one ambition being to ensure the best service for the people of Gwynedd. The priority of a Caring Gwynedd was highlighted which has the focus of improving care services and promoting independence for vulnerable people within their communities. It was reiterated that the investment and developments to create modern services were paramount, which happened through continued collaboration with partners to provide the best care. All care staff and carers in the county were thanked. It was expressed that services such as adult and children’s care and education were expensive to run, and that most of the Council's budget was spent on these. A review of Youth Services, which had received a huge cut in recent years, was welcomed, highlighting that it was extremely important preventive work, and it was hoped that it would be possible to re-invest following the review. The work of being a trauma informed county, and the Autism Plan specifically, were supported, as trauma affected children beyond the field of care alone. It was added that in relation to the Autism plan, it was difficult to get a diagnosis but afterwards support was needed to get the right specialist support as the spectrum was so broad. It was emphasised that the plan should be more than just words and that an action plan needed to be seen and to ensure that there is enough money to support all the plans. It was noted that there was a lot of good material to be found in this Plan, however, Article 4 needed to be included, as the matter had cost the Council so much and we needed to outline what went wrong. Similarly, it was added that making space for the child safeguarding practice review at the start of the report was rather tasteless and that the Council's weaknesses were conveyed as strengths. RESOLVED to adopt the Cyngor Gwynedd Plan 2023-28 – 2026/27 Review
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to adopt ‘Gwynedd 2035: An Economy that Works for All' as an economic development strategy for Gwynedd.
The report was submitted by the Cabinet Member for Economy and Community, noting that the strategy had been developed as the Cabinet had identified a gap of not having one single document that identified the wishes of the county's residents for the economy and to set a direction for developing the economy. It was reiterated that funding for economic development was increasingly uncertain and that the Welsh Government's emphasis had been on regional collaboration, and that investment had been seen across north Wales but no corresponding plans for Gwynedd. It was noted that there was ongoing uncertainty about the global economy and there was a tempestuous atmosphere especially in Wales. It was highlighted that there were positive and strong aspects to Gwynedd's economy such as potential within existing enterprises, low unemployment and high levels of workforce qualifications. It was expressed that the purpose of the strategy was to identify where there was room for improvement, highlighting areas such as fewer working-age people working, low wages, too much part-time and seasonal work and a lack of diversity of industries. It was detailed that the process of developing the strategy had been quantitative and involved significant desktop research with input from a range of stakeholders from the private, public and third sectors. It was highlighted that input had been received from Councillors through the Education and Economy Scrutiny Committee. The desire to have an economy that gives everyone the opportunity to realise their full potential was noted, with an economy that strengthens the natural and cultural wealth of the county. It was emphasised that it was an exciting opportunity to make Gwynedd a destination of excellence in industries while continuing to nurture and complement traditional sectors such as agriculture and tourism. The vision of having an innovative, productive and low carbon economy that strengthens the Welsh language, creates new opportunities and contributes to well-being was expressed. The members were guided through the three identified themes of Enterprise, People and Well-being. It was explained that to implement the strategy, they were eager to set up an Economic Forum that would be based on the successful advisory group that navigated the work of the Shared Prosperity Fund. It was expanded that this will ensure a voice for different parts of Gwynedd to ensure awareness of the county's diversity. It was noted that the Forum would produce the annual Delivery Plan, and a monitoring and evaluation framework would be a means of measuring success against activities. Members were given an opportunity to ask questions and offer observations. The strategy was supported – they welcomed a good strategy to attract investment to the county, it was noted that it was an excellent start and they were looking forward to seeing the targets to see what comes of it. The strategy was welcomed, and they looked forward to seeing the Delivery Plan. Disappointment was expressed to hear of North Wales Ambition pulling out of the Glynllifon scheme, but the need for development in the south of the County was highlighted. It was asked how much power the Forum would have and what the monitoring system would be to ensure an even allocation across the county, and whether Councillors would be involved in the monitoring. It was noted that monitoring will be proactive for project development and work will be directed to scrutiny. It was explained that the Forum would provide guidance across the county. It was requested that an annual report be submitted to show cross-county allocation. The Trawsfynydd Hub was highlighted, and thanks were given for the work that went on behind the scenes. All members were invited to see the demolition work in progress and to see the new plans for the site. A member asked about the situation in Llanbedr and whether the lease was now in the hands of local people. It was explained that the Government had given it to a private company, but that discussions were ongoing regarding the long-term lease. The need to ensure that the Planning department supported the economy, and the need to work across departments, were emphasised. RESOLVED to adopt ‘Gwynedd 2035: An Economy that Works for All' as an economic development strategy for Gwynedd.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED 1. To publish the Gwynedd Visitor Levy Proposal Report. 2. To agree to hold a consultation on the Proposal to introduce a Levy in accordance with the list of consultees in paragraphs 5.4 and 5.5 of this report. 3. To inform the Welsh Revenue Authority, in accordance with the statute, of the intention to consult on the introduction of a Levy in Gwynedd.
The report was presented by the Cabinet Member for Economy and Community, setting out the reason for considering the Visitor Levy i.e.to ensure that the tourism sector contributes fairly towards the cost of the pressure this placed on local services, the environment, the Welsh language and the county's communities. It was added that the levy was a means of reinvesting in the visitor economy for the benefit of residents and businesses. The current situation was highlighted, namely that millions of visits to Gwynedd each year created increasing pressure on local services at a time when budgets were under pressure. According to the Welsh Government, the levy was identified as a potential solution as it requested a small contribution from overnight visitors to be reinvested locally, with local control and transparency. It was stressed that the proposal was not an anti-tourism development but rather sought to manage and strengthen the economy in a sustainable way in the long term. It was reiterated that there were several ways of measuring the visitor economy, and that these were reflected in the impact assessments, gave a different dimension to the economy of Gwynedd and therefore the affected impact assessments. Attention was drawn to the comments received from the Education and Economy Scrutiny Committee which included the need for a thorough consultation to be carried out and a firm commitment on spending the money. It was expressed that a detailed process would be adopted if the levy was desired, and it was noted that the national rate was 75p excluding VAT for the lowest scale (which included campsites and hostels) and £1.30 excluding VAT on the highest scale. It was noted that all persons staying overnight would be expected to pay the levy but that exceptions existed. It was explained that the Council had considered the potential of introducing a levy for several years, with Benefiting from Tourism research from 2018 highlighting the levy as the source that would bring the most income to Gwynedd to invest in the visitor economy. It was explained that the question today was to determine whether a public consultation process should be implemented, and the results would be considered when a final decision was made by the Full Council. It was highlighted that the Council was working closely with Conwy and Anglesey on carrying out impact assessment research, and that discussions had taken place with Cardiff Council who had decided to adopt a levy following a consultation process. It was noted that the impact assessments had been developed under the guidance of the Welsh Government, and it was noted that the assessment indicated that the levy could lead to losing 50 jobs at worst or creating 21 jobs at best. In terms of revenue, it was expressed that this ranged from £2.4m when using one dataset to over £12m if another was used. It was therefore anticipated that the amount would be higher than that stated in the Levy Proposal. It was explained that the consultation procedure was set out in the act and clearly set out where the levy income can be invested, along with the need to establish a Levy Partnership Forum at local authority level. It was highlighted that the proposal highlighted that income should be invested in projects and activities that aligned with the Gwynedd and Eryri 2035 Plan's sustainable visitor economy principles such as improving toilets, public transport and supporting events. It was expressed that if there was support, they intended to hold a consultation process on 20 May for a period of eight weeks before returning to the Full Council on 24 September. It was stressed that no final decision on the adoption of the Levy would be made until after the consultation process. Members were given an opportunity to ask questions and offer observations. An understanding of the benefits of having a levy was noted, and there was agreement with the idea in principle but there were also concerns such as how to enforce it. It was noted that while the report highlighted how it would bring in money, the report did not demonstrate how it could work without having a negative impact on tourism in the county. It was expressed that tourism and the hospitality sector affected a lot of businesses and that the introduction of the levy may be a risk of a reduction in business. It was emphasised that we should pause to see what the impact was on other counties and gather data before making a decision. Members were reminded that today's report was to determine whether to go to consultation to ensure that voices are heard, from residents, people working in the tourism sector and business owners. It was expressed that tourism had an impact on areas such as the language and that this would provide input to the costs locally, but it was highlighted that this was not part of today's decision. It was emphasised that many consultations were carried out by the Council. It was added that the room tax was already 20% for businesses and hence was there a need to charge more. It was expressed that the economy was already fragile and therefore they had to be careful that no anti-tourism messages were shared. It was pointed out that tourism was currently decreasing in the county because of decisions such as raising business tax and article 4, and that there was a need to hold back and have time to stabilise. It was pointed out that hospitality tax was around 7% in overseas countries, therefore much lower than Gwynedd, and that further data was needed. It was expressed that it was the right time to consult, and it was pointed out that Edinburgh had the highest levy in Europe. It was highlighted that the number of visitors had risen because money had been invested to improve the city. It was declared that this was an opportunity to improve the experience of both visitors and residents. The consultation was welcomed but it was pointed out that the report did not highlight overtourism in the county. It was elaborated that the benefits of the money were being used to mitigate the negative impact on communities and that there was a need to invest in tourism without encouraging more tourism. The need to word the consultation well was expressed and it was asked who would scrutinise the wording itself. The Monitoring Officer responded by stating that the process was in accordance with the act. It was highlighted that there were obvious challenges with tourism but there were positive elements through the vibrancy it creates, and we must be proud that visitors from all over the world are visiting the county. It was expressed that the levy provided the potential to invest the money to support businesses and that it was an exciting opportunity to spend it in a sustainable way and to ensure that residents can enjoy living in the area. The decision was supported and the member stated that people of his ward would be happy to see the money invested in improving facilities and that advantage should be taken from this to raise standards and to police individuals who disrespect the area. In terms of the data, it was noted that there was no data available locally to see what the effect of the levy was but that data from other countries could be used. It was highlighted that if we wait to see the results in neighbouring counties, this could become a lengthy process due to the law's processes. It was expressed that the consultation would generate data from the views of local people and businesses which would be used to make the decision in September. The people of Gwynedd, if agreed today, were asked to respond to ensure that their voices are heard. The idea was supported in principle but needed to be absolutely clear to taxpayers. The importance of coupling this decision together with Article Four and the Premium was expressed, ensuring that unforeseen side effects do not negatively hit local people. The need to be careful when introducing this was emphasised, but it may be a fairer way of raising income than the premium. It was asked what the risk of delaying this for a year was, and the response noted that a delay would not change the situation in terms of data as there was a preparation period of one year before being implemented therefore no additional data would be available. It was asked whether this tax would be imposed on locals as well, should they be staying in another part of the county on their holiday. The response was that the levy would be imposed on anyone staying overnight in Gwynedd. It was proposed to defer the item as there may be a gap in the consultation, and it would be possible to analyse the Conwy and Anglesey data for more information. It was explained that time could be taken to ensure that Gwynedd's consultation was accurate. The motion was voted on, and the motion fell so the original motion was voted on. RESOLVED 1. To publish the Gwynedd Visitor Levy Proposal Report. 2. To agree to hold a consultation on the Proposal to introduce a Levy in accordance with the list of consultees in paragraphs 5.4 and 5.5 of this report. 3. To inform the Welsh Revenue Authority, in accordance with the statute, of the intention to consult on the introduction of a Levy in Gwynedd.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to agree to: · adopt the list of committees and sub-committees to be established for the municipal year as set out in Appendix A, together with the adoption of the seat allocation and senior salaries set out in the appendix. · delegate authority to the Head of Democracy Services to make appointments to the committees based on political balance, and in accordance with the wishes of the political groups. · adopt the chairpersonships of scrutiny committees based on political balance as follows: o Education and Economy Scrutiny Committee – Plaid Cymru Group o Communities Scrutiny Committee – Independent Group o Care Scrutiny Committee – Independent Group
The Head of Democracy's report was presented stating that it was a requirement to present a report at the Council's annual meeting. It was highlighted that no significant change had been made in terms of the political balance, therefore only minor changes were to be determined in terms of committee arrangements. RESOLVED to agree to: · adopt the list of committees and sub-committees to be established for the municipal year as set out in Appendix A, together with the adoption of the seat allocation and senior salaries set out in the appendix. · delegate authority to the Head of Democracy Services to make appointments to the committees based on political balance, and in accordance with the wishes of the political groups. · adopt the chairpersonships of scrutiny committees based on political balance as follows: o Education and Economy Scrutiny Committee – Plaid Cymru Group o Communities Scrutiny Committee – Independent Group o Care Scrutiny Committee – Independent Group
The Council was invited to appoint a chair for the Democracy Services Committee for 2026/27. RESOLVED to appoint Councillor Dewi Owen as Chair of the Democracy Services Committee for 2026/27
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to appoint Carys Edwards and Neil Hawkins as Independent Members of the Standards Committee for a period of 6 years.
The Monitoring Officer's report was submitted, recommending that the Council appoint Carys Edwards and Neil Hawkins as Independent Members of the Standards Committee for a period of 6 years. RESOLVED to appoint Carys Edwards and Neil Hawkins as Independent Members of the Standards Committee for a period of 6 years.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED to adopt the motion, namely:- I want to express deep and passionate concern about the current Ordnance Survey (OS) policy, which is leading to the deletion, undermining and ignoring of Welsh place names that have been part of our landscape for centuries. Ordnance Survey maps currently: · Replace historical Welsh names with English forms that have no basis or tradition, e.g. The Mushroom Garden for Coed Cerrig y Frân, Heather Terrace Path for Llwybr Gwregys. · Place English names alongside Welsh names, creating the impression that the Welsh names are optional or secondary, e.g. Cwm Cneifion / Nameless Cwm, Bala Lake / Llyn Tegid. ’Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa (despite the fact that Eryri National Park Authority no longer uses the name Snowdon.)' This Council criticises these practices, as they contribute directly to the loss of Welsh names, and therefore undermine our language, history and national identity. When the Ordnance Survey adopts an English name, it appears on websites, signs, publications, and media and as a result, the Welsh name is pushed aside. This happens even among young Welsh speakers, who are often led to believe that the English name is the "standard". This is how language is weakened, not in a single strike, but in a thousand small steps. Welsh place names are part of our cultural DNA. They tell the story of the land, the people, the legends, the work, the life. No one has the right to delete or replace them. Therefore, I want to propose to this Council today that we: 1. Write to the Ordnance Survey to call on them to put an end to the current harmful policy, and to adopt a clear and simple principle and to use only Welsh language landscape place names on maps in Wales. 2. Call on the Welsh Government to intervene formally and to ensure that the Ordnance Survey respects and protects historic Welsh names. 3. Call on the other Welsh Authorities to follow this proposal. This is not just a matter of maps. It is a matter of identity, respect and cultural justice. (B) Submitted – the following notice of motion by the Council Leader under Section 4.19 of the Constitution, and it was seconded. No observations were received. RESOLVED to adopt the motion, namely:- The Council marks the murder of Member of Parliament, Jo Cox on 16/06/2016, ten years ago this year. (David Amess MP was also murdered on 15/10/2021). In a world that is increasingly violent and aggressive, it is sad that elected members, of all parties and at all levels of government, are increasingly exposed to insults and abuse. Recent research shows that 72% of Councillors have experienced some form of threat – whether verbal or worse – in the last 12 months. This Council believes that threatening or violent behaviour has no place in politics. Cyngor Gwynedd Councillors are committed to modelling the highest standards of respect and courtesy when dealing with each other and with the public, and we want the same respect to be shown towards us. We call on members of this Council and members of Community and Town Councils throughout Gwynedd to support the One Voice Wales, NALC and SLCC "Pledge of Respect and Courtesy" campaign.
(A) A notice of motion was submitted by Councillor Einir Williams under Section 4.19 of the Constitution, and it was seconded. Members expressed enthusiastic support for the proposal, noting that: · The matter was close to the heart of several Members. · Examples of historical names with strong roots in Welsh legends, geography and history. The need to retain them on the maps was noted. · It was highlighted that house names were also disappearing and a commitment was needed from the Council to not be hypocritical and to use Welsh addresses in correspondence. · A tribute was paid to a man who had fought hard for this issue, the late Eilian Williams, Dyffryn Peris, and he was thanked for his work. · It was emphasised that these names were a part of Welsh culture, and there was a real need for them to be preserved. · It was agreed to add a clause to call on other authorities across Wales to follow this proposal. · It was highlighted that the Council had been doing work for years to try to influence the Welsh Government and that work had been done to preserve Welsh place names. · It was expressed that the Welsh Government did not have direct power on this issue, but it was hoped that they would look seriously at the matter and put pressure on the OS to ensure that the Welsh names are on maps. · An amendment was proposed – that this Council calls on a Monitoring Officer to send a memorandum to use Welsh names only. It was stated in response that street names were official and therefore there were legal boundaries, but the Council will when possible, preserve the Welsh name and to push the legal boundaries as much as possible. · It was promised that the Council, in writing to the Ordnance Survey, would request an official meeting to discuss the matter. RESOLVED to adopt the motion, namely:- I want to express deep and passionate concern about the current Ordnance Survey (OS) policy, which is leading to the deletion, undermining and ignoring of Welsh place names that have been part of our landscape for centuries. Ordnance Survey maps currently: · Replace historical Welsh names with English forms that have no basis or tradition, e.g. The Mushroom Garden for Coed Cerrig y Frân, Heather Terrace Path for Llwybr Gwregys. · Place English names alongside Welsh names, creating the impression that the Welsh names are optional or secondary, e.g. Cwm Cneifion / Nameless Cwm, Bala Lake / Llyn Tegid. ’Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa (despite the fact that Eryri National Park Authority no longer uses the name Snowdon.)' This Council criticises these practices, as they contribute directly to the loss of Welsh names, and therefore undermine our language, history and national identity. When the Ordnance Survey adopts an English name, it appears on websites, signs, publications, and media and as a result, the Welsh name is pushed aside. This happens even among young Welsh speakers, who are often led to believe that the English name is the "standard". This is how language is weakened, not in a single strike, but in a thousand small steps. Welsh place names are part of our cultural DNA. They tell the story of the land, the people, the legends, the work, the life. No one has the right to delete or replace them. Therefore, I want to propose to this Council today that we: 1. Write to the Ordnance Survey to call on them to put an end to the current harmful policy, and to adopt a clear and simple principle and to use only Welsh language landscape place names on maps in Wales. 2. Call on the Welsh Government to intervene formally and to ensure that the Ordnance Survey respects and protects historic Welsh names. 3. Call on the other Welsh Authorities to follow this proposal. This is not just a matter of maps. It is a matter of identity, respect and cultural justice. (B) Submitted – the following notice of motion by the Council Leader under Section 4.19 of the Constitution, and it was seconded. No observations were received. RESOLVED to adopt the motion, namely:- The Council marks the murder of Member of Parliament, Jo Cox on 16/06/2016, ten years ago this year. (David Amess MP was also murdered on 15/10/2021). In a world that is increasingly violent and aggressive, it is sad that elected members, of all parties and at all levels of government, are increasingly exposed to insults and abuse. Recent research shows that 72% of Councillors have experienced some form of threat – whether verbal or worse – in the last 12 months. This Council believes that threatening or violent behaviour has no place in politics. Cyngor Gwynedd Councillors are committed to modelling the highest standards of respect and courtesy when dealing with each other and with the public, and we want the same respect to be shown towards us. We call on members of this Council and members of Community and Town Councils throughout Gwynedd to support the One Voice Wales, NALC and SLCC "Pledge of Respect and Courtesy" campaign.
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