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Full Council met on 23 September 2025. It appointed a new independent member to the Standards Committee, noted the Standards Committee and Director of Social Services annual reports, and approved the Welsh Language annual monitoring report for publication. It also agreed to start a review of community council boundaries and electoral arrangements, and debated three notices of motion on a Caerleon railway station, Gaza and the Welsh Rugby Union.
The Presiding Member announced that former Mayor and Ward Councillor for Lliswerry, Ken Critchley had recently passed away. The Presiding Member also announced the passing of Lord Howarth, former Newport East MP, and requested that a minute’s silence was observed for both. Apologies were noted for Councillors Forsey, Horton, Reynolds, Kellaway, James, and Baker-Westhead Councillor Evans, under Item 9, as a Gwent Dragons season ticket holder. Councillor M Howells under Item 4, as LEA Governor at Lliswerry Primary School.
The Minutes of the last meeting held on 15 July 2025 was accepted as a true record. This was proposed by the Leader, Councillor Batrouni and seconded by the Deputy Leader, Councillor Davies.
The Presiding Member introduced Chief Superintendent J White, Head of Neighbourhood Policing at Gwent Police, who provided Council Members with an update on police issues within East, West, and Central Newport. Once the Chief Superintendent had addressed the Council, the Presiding Member invited the Leader, Councillor Batrouni, to address Superintendent White. The floor was then opened to Councillors for police questions. To access a full recording of the agenda item please refer to the Council’s YouTube channel. Democratic Meetings / Cyfarfodydd Democrataidd
Decision as recorded
Resolved: That the following appointments be agreed. Governing Body Appointments Governing Body Appointments / Resignations / Disqualifications Name Tredegar Park Primary School Reappointment Catherine Jones Tredegar Park Primary School Reappointment Councillor Trevor Watkins Caerleon Comprehensive School Reappointment Paul Warren Glan Llyn Primary School Reappointment Allison Harries St Julians Primary School Reappointment Mark Jenkins The Gaer and Maesglas Primary School Partnership Reappointment Councillor Beverley Perkins The Gaer and Maesglas Primary School Partnership Reappointment Councillor Stephen Marshall Bassaleg School Reappointment Councillor Laura Lacey Maindee Primary School Reappointment Councillor Farzina Hussain Newport Nursery Reappointment Councillor Carmel Townsend Rogerstone Primary School Reappointment Councillor Yvonne Forsey The John Frost School Reappointment Councillor Deborah Jenkins Ysgol Gymraeg Nant Gwenlli Reappointment Eirian Jones Millbrook Primary School Resignation Neil Griffiths Millbrook Primary School Appointment Adam Davies Lliswerry High School Disqualification Nazrul Islam Lliswerry High School Appointment Stephanie King Lliswerry Primary School Resignation John Richards Lliswerry Primary School Appointment Councillor Mark Howells
Councillor Spencer moved the appointments set out in the report. Councillor Mogford seconded the proposal. Resolved: That the following appointments be agreed. Governing Body Appointments Governing Body Appointments / Resignations / Disqualifications Name Tredegar Park Primary School Reappointment Catherine Jones Tredegar Park Primary School Reappointment Councillor Trevor Watkins Caerleon Comprehensive School Reappointment Paul Warren Glan Llyn Primary School Reappointment Allison Harries St Julians Primary School Reappointment Mark Jenkins The Gaer and Maesglas Primary School Partnership Reappointment Councillor Beverley Perkins The Gaer and Maesglas Primary School Partnership Reappointment Councillor Stephen Marshall Bassaleg School Reappointment Councillor Laura Lacey Maindee Primary School Reappointment Councillor Farzina Hussain Newport Nursery Reappointment Councillor Carmel Townsend Rogerstone Primary School Reappointment Councillor Yvonne Forsey The John Frost School Reappointment Councillor Deborah Jenkins Ysgol Gymraeg Nant Gwenlli Reappointment Eirian Jones Millbrook Primary School Resignation Neil Griffiths Millbrook Primary School Appointment Adam Davies Lliswerry High School Disqualification Nazrul Islam Lliswerry High School Appointment Stephanie King Lliswerry Primary School Resignation John Richards Lliswerry Primary School Appointment Councillor Mark Howells
Decision as recorded
Resolved: Council appointed Victoria Smith as an independent (lay) member on the Standards Committee for a period of four years, as set out in the Council’s Constitution (Part 2 Article 9), from 23 September 2025.
The Presiding Member invited Councillor Corten to present the item. A vacancy for a lay member of the Standards Committee arose in May 2025, and an Appointments Panel was established. Interviews with shortlisted candidates were conducted in July 2025. This report proposed the appointment of Victoria Smith as an independent (lay) member of the Standards Committee for a four-year term beginning today, 23 September 2025. Councillor Corten fully endorsed this appointment. Resolved: Council appointed Victoria Smith as an independent (lay) member on the Standards Committee for a period of four years, as set out in the Council’s Constitution (Part 2 Article 9), from 23 September 2025.
Decision as recorded
Resolved: Council noted the Standards Committee Annual Report for 2024-25 and the forward work programme.
The Presiding Member invited Andrew Mitchell, Chair of Standards Committee to present the report. Resolved: Council noted the Standards Committee Annual Report for 2024-25 and the forward work programme.
Decision as recorded
Resolved: Council unanimously supported the Motion.
The following Motion was proposed by Councillor Cocks and seconded by Councillor Hughes: Newport City Council welcomes the recent announcement of five new stations to be developed along the South Wales Main Line recognising that this as a significant investment in regional connectivity, sustainable transport, and economic development. Notes that Caerleon, a site of international historical importance and a growing residential and tourism hub, remains without direct rail access. Recognises the importance of Caerleon as a heritage destination of international significance and notes ongoing plans to significantly expand the visitor economy. Notes the preparatory work already undertaken for a Caerleon station. Notes the potential for a station in Caerleon to alleviate local traffic congestion and contribute to alleviating congestion on the M4. Acknowledges that Caerleon’s inclusion in regional transport planning would support a modal shift, reduce car dependency, and enhance sustainable access to key cultural assets, aligning with Newport’s climate and connectivity goals. The Council therefore calls on Transport for Wales, the Welsh Government, and the UK Department for Transport to: § Acknowledge the case for a new station at Caerleon, based on heritage value, visitor demand, and transport equity. § Formally support the proposal for a railway station in Caerleon and request its inclusion in future Welsh Government, South Wales Metro and Transport for Wales planning frameworks. Councillor Cocks introduced and proposed the Motion. Councillor Hughes seconded the Motion and reserved his right to speak after the debate. The Motion was debated. When all members who wished to comment had done so, Councillor Hughes spoke, followed by Councillor Cocks who summed up. To access a full recording of the debate please refer to the Council’s YouTube channel. Democratic Meetings / Cyfarfodydd Democrataidd Resolved: Council unanimously supported the Motion.
Decision as recorded
it was resolved not to accept the amendment. The amendment was therefore lost. The Presiding Member then invited comments on the substantive motion. Once there were no further comments, Councillor Hussain spoke as seconder of the Motion and Councillor Screen gave his closing statement. To access a full recording of the debate please refer to the Council’s YouTube channel. Democratic Meetings / Cyfarfodydd Democrataidd Resolved: Council supported the Motion.
The Motion was proposed by Councillor Screen and seconded by Councillor Hussain: This Council recognises its residents’ concerns about the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the humanitarian crisis it has caused, and the impact it has had on our communities within the City who might have relatives in Gaza and Israel. We acknowledge in particular the residents who are in contact with us, as well as those who have attended peaceful protests both at the Civic Centre Council meetings and elsewhere across the city. This Council notes and supports the UK Government’s position which is to call for: • An immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza. • The resumption of humanitarian aid and support routes into Gaza for the benefit of the civil population. • The immediate release of all remaining Israeli hostages abducted and held by Hamas since 7th October 2023 and the repatriation of those hostages who have died in captivity. • This Council also notes that Newport Council is a constituent authority of the Greater Gwent Pension Fund. It does not control, and neither does it seek to instruct, the fund, the sovereign body of which remains the Pension Committee of Torfaen County Borough Council. The Council therefore asks the Greater Gwent Pension Fund to: 1. Review its investments to determine whether any relate to the conflict in Gaza, and, in particular, whether any investments have been made in companies that might be complicit in potential war crimes and/or human rights violations. 2. Work with partner funds in the Wales Pension Partnership (WPP) to determine how any such investments might be withdrawn. 3. Finally, we want all Councillors to recognise the importance of this Council continuing to commit its support to the proud tradition of strong, meaningful relationships between the many communities that call Newport home. Councillor Screen introduced the Motion. Councillor Hussain reserved her right to speak after the debate. The Presiding Member asked if there was an amendment to the Motion. Councillor Al-Nuaimi advised that he had an amendment, which was distributed to Councillors in the Chambers, and an email copy was sent to those joining remotely. Copies of the document produced by Councillor Al-Nuaimi were also circulated in the public gallery. Proposed Amendment to the Motion: The Council recognises Newport residents' concerns about the ongoing humanitarian catastrophic conflict in Gaza and the impact it is having on our communities and those with relatives in the Middle East region. Council further notes the findings of the United Nations and respected human rights organisations that serious breaches of international humanitarian law are being committed, including the targeting of civilians and the obstruction of the flow of humanitarian aid. We acknowledge, in particular, the concerns of residents who are in contact with us as well as those who have attended peaceful protests both at the Civic Centre Council meetings and elsewhere across the city. Council recognises its responsibility to try to ensure that public money, including investments made directly by Newport City Council and the Greater Gwent Pension Fund (GGPF) are used in a manner consistent with our cherished values of peace, human rights, and respect for international law. Newport City Council supports the overwhelming international call for: • An immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza • The resumption of humanitarian aid and support routes into Gaza for the benefit of the civilian populations • The release of all Palestinian prisoners and Israeli captives taken since 7 October 2023 Noting this Council is a constituent authority of the Greater Gwent Pension Fund, Newport City Council resolves to: • Review NCC own investments and request also that GGPF review its own investments, in order to identify any direct or indirect investments in companies, which are supplying arms, military technology, or Logistical support, which enable breaches of international law in Gaza and other occupied Palestinian territories. • Work with GGPF, their asset managers and the Wales Pension partnership (WPP), aiming to take steps, to end such investments by both NCC and GGPF. • Report to Council within 3 months on progress achieved. We want all members of the Council to recognise the importance of this Council affirming its commitment to the proud tradition of strong, meaningful relationships that exist between our local communities. Councillor Al-Nuaimi introduced and proposed this amendment. The Monitoring Officer queried whether the above constituted an amendment or whether it was in fact a new motion. Councillor Al-Nuaimi gave details of the words he wanted to add to and remove from the original motion and the Presiding Member asked for this to be provided in writing. A comparison document was produced which showed the differences between the two documents in tracked changes. The amendment was seconded by Councillor Townsend. The Presiding Member announced a ten-minute adjournment to enable copies of the tracked document to be printed and circulated. The meeting was adjourned at 18:24 hours The meeting was re-convened at 18:35 hours. Upon the resumption of the meeting, copies of the tracked amendment were circulated. The Presiding Member asked if members had any comments on the amendment. Councillor Screen proposed that the vote on the amendment now be taken. This proposal was seconded by Councillor Batrouni. A vote was held and was carried by the majority. A vote was therefore immediately taken on the amendment, and it was resolved not to accept the amendment. The amendment was therefore lost. The Presiding Member then invited comments on the substantive motion. Once there were no further comments, Councillor Hussain spoke as seconder of the Motion and Councillor Screen gave his closing statement. To access a full recording of the debate please refer to the Council’s YouTube channel. Democratic Meetings / Cyfarfodydd Democrataidd Resolved: Council supported the Motion.
Decision as recorded
Resolved: Council unanimously supported the Motion.
The Motion was proposed by Councillor Batrouni and seconded by Councillor James Clarke: The city of Newport has a proud and rich rugby tradition and history. We treasure our teams like Newport RFC and all our grassroots rugby teams. Those clubs are woven into the DNA of our city. With the regionalisation of the national game, we embraced our region, Dragons RFC, which has, and continues, to add to the richness of our rugby culture and make an enormous contribution to our local communities. We are, therefore, dismayed by the WRU’s recent proposals to scale down from 4 regional sides to 2. While we all want the Welsh national side to do well, we feel this is the wrong approach. Therefore, this council resolves to write a letter to the WRU outlining our: • Wholehearted support for the retention of Dragons RFC. • Dismay at the potential for losing such a vital part of our social fabric. • Desire for the WRU to reconsider their proposals. A draft of the letter will be sent to all Councillors, and I would like all Councillors, from across the political spectrum, to sign the letter. Councillor Batrouni introduced and proposed the Motion. Councillor Batrouni also requested a recorded vote, this was supported by Councillors D Davies, Clarke, Lacey, R Howell, and S Adan. Councillor Clarke seconded the Motion and exercised his right to speak. The Motion was debated. When all members who wishes to contribute had done so. Councillor Batrouni gave his closing statement. The recorded vote was as follows: Councillor Name Apologies For Against Abstain 1 Adan, Saeed X 2 Al-Nuaimi, Miqdad X 3 Baker-Westhead, Claire X 4 Batrouni, Dimitri X 5 Bright, Paul X 6 Clarke, James X 7 Cleverly, Janet X 8 Cockeram, Paul X 9 Cocks, Stephen X 10 Davies, Bev X 11 Davies, Deb X 12 Drewett, Pat X 13 Evans, Matthew X 14 Forsey, Yvonne X 15 Fouweather, David X 16 Harris, John X 17 Harvey, Debbie X 18 Harvey, Tim X 19 Horton, Gavin X 20 Hourahine, Phil X 21 Howells, Mark X 22 Howells, Rhian X 23 Hughes, Jason X 24 Hussain, Farzina X 25 James, Lauren X 26 Jenkins, Debbie X 27 Jones, John X 28 Jordan, Jason X 29 Kellaway, Martin X 30 Lacey, Laura X 31 Linton, Malcolm X 32 Marshall, Stephen X 33 Mayer, David Absent 34 Mogford, Ray X 35 Morris, Allan Absent 36 Mudd, Jane X 37 Perkins, Bev X 38 Peterson, James X 39 Pimm, Alex X 40 Pimm, Matthew X 41 Reeks, Chris X 42 Reynolds, John X 43 Routley, William X 44 Screen, Allan X 45 Spencer, Mark X 46 Sterry, Andrew X 47 Stowell-Corten, Emma X 48 Thomas, Kate X 49 Townsend, Carmel X 50 Watkins, Trevor X 51 Whitehead, Kevin X Total 6 43 0 0 To access a full recording of the debate please refer to the Council’s YouTube channel. Democratic Meetings / Cyfarfodydd Democrataidd Resolved: Council unanimously supported the Motion.
Decision as recorded
Resolved: Council approved the Welsh Language Annual Monitoring Report 2024-25 for publication in line with statutory requirements.
The Presiding Member invited Councillor Hughes to present the item. Councillor Batrouni seconded the report. Resolved: Council approved the Welsh Language Annual Monitoring Report 2024-25 for publication in line with statutory requirements.
Decision as recorded
Resolved: Council noted the Annual Report of the Director of Social Services.
The Presiding Member introduced Tanya Evans, Strategic Director of Social Services to present the report outlining performance data, delivery promised for 2025/26, and planned improvements in services for the people of Newport, with support expressed by the Cabinet Member for Social Services. Councillor Lacey proposed the report. Councillor D Davies seconded the report. Resolved: Council noted the Annual Report of the Director of Social Services.
Decision as recorded
Resolved: Council - 1. Agreed to conduct a Community Boundary and Electoral Arrangements Review in accordance with sections 25 and 31 of the Local Government (Democracy) (Wales) Act 2013. 2. Approved the timetable for the carrying out of that review as set out below in this report. 3. Approved the draft Terms of Reference and Council Size Policy in the appendix to this report. 4. Agreed to commence the initial consultation exercise to seek public comments regarding the scope of the exercise and the Council Size Policy; and 5. Considered the outcomes of that consultation at a later meeting.
Councillor Corten proposed the report. Councillor Peterson seconded the report. Resolved: Council - 1. Agreed to conduct a Community Boundary and Electoral Arrangements Review in accordance with sections 25 and 31 of the Local Government (Democracy) (Wales) Act 2013. 2. Approved the timetable for the carrying out of that review as set out below in this report. 3. Approved the draft Terms of Reference and Council Size Policy in the appendix to this report. 4. Agreed to commence the initial consultation exercise to seek public comments regarding the scope of the exercise and the Council Size Policy; and 5. Considered the outcomes of that consultation at a later meeting.
The Leader presented his announcements, including the following Champions: Champions Welsh Language Councillor John Harris Disabled and Vulnerable Persons Councillor Deb Jenkins Elite Sport Champion Councillor Gavin Horton Armed Forces and Veterans Councillor Mark Spencer LGBT Councillor John Reynolds Care Leavers Champion Councillor Phil Hourahine Older Persons Councillor Trevor Watkins Minority Ethnic Councillor Farzina Hussain Carers Councillor Paul Cockeram Neurodiversity Councillor Stephen Marshall To access a full recording of the Leader’s announcements, please refer to the Council’s YouTube channel. Democratic Meetings / Cyfarfodydd Democrataidd Once the Leader had concluded, Councillors put their questions to the Leader, in line with Standing Orders arrangements. Councillor Evans: At your Cabinet meeting earlier this month you approved and adopted the updated version of the Code of Corporate Governance. Along with the Council’s Annual Governance Statement, the Code of Corporate Governance demonstrates how the Council’s meets this requirement through seven principles: One of these principles is implementing good practices in transparency, reporting, and audit to deliver effective accountability. Ensuring an open culture through demonstrating, documenting, and communicating the organisation’s commitment to openness. Making decisions that are open about actions, plans, forecasts, outputs, and outcomes. The presumption is for openness. In May of this year an FOI was submitted in respect of Newport's Indoor Market and the subsequent financing of the market. The Council’s response was: The information requested above was provided in your previous request, REQ10363, in August 2022. Almost 3 years earlier an appeal was similarly met with veiled unhelpful comments, and the opinion that commercial sensitivity outweighs the public interest. In August of this year Councillor Al-Nuaimi also submitted a series of questions about the agreement and yet again the response avoided answering any of the questions about finance. But what I can deduce is that this Council hasn’t received a single penny of “profit share“ and hasn't received any of the £6million due back. The loan needs to be paid in full in less than 5 months’ time. Why have you been reluctant to talk about this, and are you confident this will be repaid in full then? Response: No profit share payments had been received. The loan was not repayable until February 2026. Freedom of Information requests (FOIs) were set out by statutory law, there was a process to be followed, with officers adhering to guidance and there was no political interference. The Act did allow for commercial sensitivity and for that information not to be released for reasons of sensitivity was true of all councils. Supplementary: This was not about the Council or developers money, it was about Council Tax money. This was not the only loan waiting to be paid. Regarding Newport Market, Cabinet received an update on 3 February 2019, this was a non-confidential report discussing geared rental returns, maximum loan facilities. In a non-confidential email sent by a previous Head of Law and Standards on 25 June 2019 stated that the detailed heads of terms are commercially confidential at this stage. This was a legal requirement agreed with the developers which could not be waivered. The financial details could however be disclosed at a later stage, subject to the agreement being completed. The Governance and Audit Committee had also requested details, which to date were not forthcoming. Was the Leader reluctant to release this information. Response: The information was commercially sensitive. The Governance and Audit Committee would be holding a confidential briefing in which they would be updated. Loan investments by the Council were not unique. Where we can, the Council always releases information in terms of FOIs while complying with all the relevant legal requirements, such as GDPR and commercially sensitive information. The Head of Law & Standards noted that they could not reply in relation to the email sent in 2019 but would discuss outside of the meeting any information that could be shared with Councillor Evans. Councillor M Howells: When my colleague, Councillor Sterry, was first elected in 2022, he began working with officers in Customer Services on a pilot initiative that involved sharing all available My Newport data with him. As someone with a strong interest in data analysis, he used this information to raise legitimate and constructive questions with a Head of Service. However, following this, his access to the data was withdrawn, and it became clear that officers were uncomfortable with Councillors having access to this level of information. This raises serious concerns about transparency and the ability of elected members to effectively scrutinise services and represent their constituents. Access to relevant data is essential for Councillors to perform their duties and hold services to account. Will the Leader agree to review this situation with officers and ensure that Councillors are granted appropriate access to My Newport data to support their scrutiny and ward work? Furthermore, does the Leader agree that Councillors should not be denied access to data that directly relates to what is happening in their wards? Response: A members’ dashboard would be rolled out soon, providing equity to members, with as information for their respective wards. The Leader had sight of the first phase, and a beta version would soon be rolled out to some test members in the first instance, then to all members. The first relevant information that will be available for all members on the dashboard will be fly tipping. Supplementary: Was there a timescale when members could see this information? Response: The Leader saw the first phase in the previous week, and it was therefore hoped that it would be available over the next couple of months. Councillor Routley: Leader, given the council's projected overspend of £5.2 million in key areas like social services and education, alongside the £1.6 million underspend in the contingency budget, could you provide an explanation for these financial outcomes and outline the specific steps the administration is taking to address the funding shortfalls in these critical services, particularly in relation to the guidance given to schools to use their reserves, and explain how this strategy aligns with the council's commitment to protecting the most vulnerable residents? Response: School reserves increased by £1.1M last year and this was in surplus to £13M when looking at the most recent figures. It was therefore key to monitor the school budgets, working with schools and there was a dedicated financial team that monitored the school budgets. The Council’s commitment to schools was unrivalled and £1.6M was given to all schools last year. In the budget £11.1M was given to schools and over £5M to social services. The Council was determined to support education, social services and housing, there was however unprecedented demand. For example, the number of assessments taken by children’s services was up 25% in one year, which was why there was a surge in costs. Supplementary: Pressures to services was a primary cause, however, the budget showed an underspend of £1.6M in contingency funds. Why was the Council asking schools to use their reserves and not providing financial support from the contingency funds. Response: The contingency budget helped with the fluctuations over the course of a financial year, this was during the period Q1 and therefore a projection. The actual overall budget was predicted as an underspend. Councillor Fouweather: The Old Post Office at Mill Street known as the Garrison Barclay Development has been completed and empty for a number of years. A loan was initially offered and accepted however the loan to Garrison Barclay has been outstanding for some time. I would be grateful if you could answer the following: • When is the loan due to be repaid? • The building has been finished and empty for approximately 5 years. Why had no attempt been made to have the loan repaid in full? • What action has the council taken to recoup any possible losses? • If the loan is defaulted on what action does the council plan to take as this is taxpayers money? Response: The repayment of the loan is due to commence within 9 months of practical completion of the development and there is a repayment schedule set out in the loan agreement. As you are aware, the development has not yet achieved full, practical completion and therefore the loan is not due. No action was taken as the loan was not due, the loan was not defaulted as yet but the Council would cross that bridge when it came to it. Supplementary: No pressure was put on the developer to move things forward. A report was due to go to Governance and Audit Committee this month, regarding this loan, however the report had not been forthcoming. Could the Leader therefore explain why the report was not going to Governance and Audit Committee. Response: This would be available in a confidential briefing of the Governance and Audit Committee. Officers had applied pressure, and the developer had secured tenants for the office space who were expected to move in by spring 2026. Mr McCarthy acknowledged the building had been set on fire and targeted by trespassers but said the damages were minor and being dealt with. Legally, the offices are under offer and contracts have been exchanged, and we are hopeful to be able to make an announcement by October of this year. With regard to the vandalism, the damages were only minor. One of the entryways was set on fire in attempts for trespassers to gain access to the building. This will all be rectified before the buyers take over the space, which we anticipate will be in Q2 2026. Councillor Reeks: Newport City Council does not offer a soft plastics recycling service but instead directs residents to local supermarkets, who have taken the initiative to offer a recycling service. However, businesses producing large quantities of soft plastic waste have to put this waste into ordinary bins which inevitably ends up in landfill. Whilst this situation exists in many councils across South Wales, Torfaen have introduced a collection point for soft plastics at their household waste centres. Does the leader agree that Newport City Council could do more for residents, businesses and more importantly the environment as a whole by offering a soft plastic recycling service at our waste centre and go further again by offering a collection service for a small cost to local businesses so they too can make use of this facility? Response: Newport’s recycling rate for last year was over 71%, making us the best performing City in the UK and one of the best performing councils of any type. Soft plastics are challenging to recycling, with very few reprocessors able to accept the material. The cost of recycling soft plastics is currently £650 per tonne and so we want to encourage packaging companies to minimise this in the first instance. From March 2027, producers will be responsible for covering the Council’s cost to provide this service. Working with Wastesavers we aim to begin some collection trials next year, for both domestic and business soft plastics. It is somewhat more challenging to offer soft plastic services, but we are increasing the promotion of the facilities available across supermarkets in Newport, and officers are working to develop possible options to support this form of recycling. Supplementary: Could we ensure that Councillors understand what the difference between soft and hard plastics is, to avoid confusion and in turn advise constituents on the difference between soft and hard plastics. This would also help to prevent refusal of collection of these materials. Response: Absolutely. Councillor Mogford: You have written recently, somewhat ambiguously it must be said, about ‘tired old ways of thinking’ when it comes to the numerous challenges we face in modern times. This raises a number of questions around what your new way of thinking actually is. One could wonder whether it still involves robust logic, common sense and wisdom for example or is it built on a different framework as we see elsewhere in current UK and Welsh Government? Specifically on the topic of NCC budget setting, Previously, when you were Monmouthshire’s County Council’s opposition leader you argued against a raise in council tax by 3.89%. You said the increase would "disproportionately impact low-income households." You emphasised the poorest in the community should not bear the brunt of financial pressures. (Your old way of thinking!) Now, you are the leader of Newport City council. Ongoing tax hikes over the last 12 years or so, and their cumulative (compounding) affect not only damage the poorest families but also many middle-income families who are clearly struggling with bills (Your new way of thinking?) It appears that since joining NCC you have been doing the very thing you once argued against. NCC have almost consistently year on year pushed through inflation busting rises (the latest being 6.7% council tax rise) and refuse to rule-out even more 'inflation busting' tax rises. By describing how your thinking processes may have evolved, shall we say, since March 2021 on the topic of taxation, can you answer the following question. Question: In this historical context, do you now (and perhaps would your younger self from that period) recognize that such gross council tax rises over the last 12 years or so by Newport City Council are clearly unsustainable going forward and are financially damaging for the majority of hard-working Newport residents? Response: Every council faces unique context and circumstances as it faces the common issue of increasing demand for services and cost increases. Monmouthshire has one of the highest council tax in Wales, by contrast, Newport has the third lowest (Band D) £300 cheaper per annum. Newport was at a difference of £28 per annum from being the second lowest council tax in Wales. The context here in Newport is that we are facing, compared to other Welsh councils, some of the fastest growing demands for key services but in particular temporary housing and social care. These result in huge financial challenges for us which are higher than many councils. Supplementary: Given the rises and if they were sustainable, does a growing city demand higher or lower council taxes, by putting pressure on the services. Response: Housing costs alone, between 2022-23, saw a 71% increase. Therefore, there were huge pressures in service areas. Trying to house people and provide social care was a growing challenge. There could be a change any administration within the Council, but the figures were still the same. The Council did want to keep council tax low but there were cost pressures.
Councillor Cocks: I would like to put on record how pleased Caerleon RFC were in receiving the SPF funding and how much this is going to help them and the community. Can I ask the Cabinet Member, have other Newport Communities benefited from The Shared Prosperity Funding Programme which was funded by the UK Government and Newport Council? And can the cabinet member also to update us as to whether more funding is going to be available? Response from Councillor Clarke: Thank you, Councillor Cocks, for your question and it’s great to hear that SPF funding is going to make a difference to the local rugby club and wider community. Over the last 3 years we have been able to use UK Shared Prosperity Funding to help and support lots of community groups and deliver projects which have a direct benefit to residents and communities across the city. Since starting the SPF programme delivery in 2023, a total of 98 projects have been carried out in numerous wards across the city. We have been able to supports sports clubs including Newport Cricket Club, Alway FC, Riot City Ravens (a roller derby club based at the Active Living Centre in Bettws), Newport West Netball team, Newport Aces Basketball who are based at John Frost School and St Joseph’s, and Albion Rovers based in Shaftesbury. We have supported local community groups to deliver local events including Sport in the Park and Music in the Park in Beechwood Park, the Rogerstone Festival, and the Maindee Festival in the Victoria ward. We have even been able to support the Newport Chess Congress which took place in August and was reported to have achieved its best attendance so far over the last 3 years it’s been running. We have also seen the delivery of some major projects including the new splash park at Tredegar Park, a facility enjoyed by residents from across the city and from further afield, upgrade and repair works to the 14 Locks Canal, and improved facilities at Cae Perllan Allotments and Pill Park. I am pleased that we have been able to continue to offer support to community groups using this year’s SPF funding allocation. The first window for applications opened on 15 May and closed on 12 June and we received over 100 applications and awarded funding totalling just under £1.2m to local groups and organisations. SPF funding comes to an end in March 2026, but I’m pleased to confirm that a second (and final) application window for community funding opened yesterday. We are particularly encouraging groups to apply who have not previously received any SPF funding to ensure we reach as many groups and communities as possible. This application window will close in 3 weeks and further details on how to apply can be found on the Council’s website under the SPF page. When people made reference to communities not being the same as they were, on the contrary, I see great communities and organisations doing fantastic work throughout Newport. Councillor Fouweather: There is an ongoing problem with finding secondary school places in the west of the city. There is now more housebuilding taking place in areas like Milton Park in Llanwern, Parc Elizabeth in Allt-yr-yn and the ongoing development of Glan Lyn. Can the cabinet member outline her plans to deal with this shortage in secondary school places which at present impacts the west of the city, but will no doubt also impact on the east. Response from Councillor D Davies: The Sustainable Communities for Learning Rolling Programme covers the period from 2024 to 2033 and aims to create sufficient additional secondary school places to maintain a surplus capacity of 8% against pupil population forecasts across the English-medium sector. This will support continued population growth expected through net migration and new housing developments, in line with the Local Development Plan and Office for National Statistics population forecasts. This additionality will require a net increase of approximately 700 English-medium and 500 Welsh-medium secondary school places across Newport. These projects will be delivered under phases 2 and 3 of the Rolling Programme. Supplementary: Due to the shortage of school placements, children within the Allt-yr-yn ward could not go to their catchment school. Reference was made to the development of the Welsh secondary school on the John Frost school site, which meant that part of that school was used, instead of building a new school, was this the right thing to do and should a new school be built. Response: There was a need for an accessible Welsh secondary school, and, as Cabinet Member, I am working to fill that need and this would take place over a 9-year period. The level of detail was not possible at this stage to confirm including preferred locations. This was a cross-department group. Please be assured that we were looking at a right solution for Newport. Councillor Whitehead: Now it is confirmed that Millbrook and Monnow Primary schools will be amalgamated into a new super school in Bettws this would leave Monnow School empty in its sizeable grounds. Can the leader reassure Bettws residents that this land will be / not be earmarked for further housing thus creating additional pressures on school places, doctors, dentists, and extra traffic on an estate with inadequate infrastructure as it is without adding more demands? Response from Councillor D Davies: Firstly, I would like to thank the staff at both Millbrook and Monnow for their fantastic work with children and families in Bettws. I’d particularly like to highlight the incredible dedication and professionalism of the staff at Millbrook who have continued to deliver a first-rate education service under challenging circumstances. I’d also like to thank the parents, families and pupils who have responded so well to these challenges. This was a life changing £18M investment that would be worth every penny. We are very pleased to be able to provide a brand new, modern primary school for families on the Bettws Estate. This new school will ensure pupils will be able to receive the very best education in the very best facility and it is a really exciting time for the community. Currently there are no plans to utilise the Monnow site for anything other than education. Whilst we have consulted on a school merger proposal to bring Monnow and Millbrook together, we have many other educational needs across the city. Whilst it is impossible to dismiss potential future scenarios, our priority will always be to meet the needs of the communities we serve and provide the best possible services – and this will come before any consideration of disposal. Supplementary: Could there be reassurance that there will not be any further development in Bettws. Response: There were no plans to develop on the Monnow site other than for education. There was a priority to meet the needs of the people we serve and will always provide the best possible service for them. Councillor Mogford: The former Sports Centre at Underwood, Bishton lies in a state of total disrepair; is a ‘blot on the landscape’ and continues to deteriorate at a rate. It has surely now become a full-blown hazard, a total embarrassment to the community, the wider city residents, and your administration alike! It also featured negatively on the BBC news taking its notoriety nationwide. The history of the site, post 2013 up to the present date, again raises several serious questions. As this council talks about moving head-on into the 21st century, being ‘Smart’ is, in a wider context, more than just creating digital models to capture and react to real time data, it is also about doing the right thing at the right time. Failure to take a proactive approach to resolve this highlighted situation, I submit, is a tired and lazy way of (non)thinking and behaviour that surely has no place in the evolving ethos of this Authority. Let’s talk again about restoring pride in our city, end to end top to bottom. Question to the Cabinet Member: Several attempts to bring this facility back into constructive community use have been rejected or sidelined by this council and indeed it is not even clear that ANY plans to develop will be accepted by the council. Does the Cabinet Member believe it was appropriate and ethical to sell this highly valued community facility and effectively allow it to rot, year in year. All the while depriving an isolated community of old, young and all in between, of much needed facilities. What steps are you prepared to take to resolve this concern now that this council claims the city to be ‘on the rise’ and in ‘investment mode’? Response from Councillor Hughes: A decision was made to declare the asset surplus in September 2013. This was made through the democratic process and included consultation with ward members as well as a “call-in period.” The building is now in private ownership; however, the owners have been unable to develop proposals which would satisfy planning legislation. As a privately-owned asset, it is for the owner to develop the building into an appropriate use. The owner is also responsible for the maintenance and security of the building and officers inspect the site when complaints are received. The site was inspected by Planning and Building Control officers from the council in 2024, but the condition of the building did not meet the threshold for enforcement action to be taken. Supplementary: Councillor Mogford had spoken with the owner who went through planning and felt there was no way out in what could be developed, leading to frustration. Could the Council therefore be more proactive working with the owner and would the Cabinet Member visit the site with ward Councillors. Response: There was still a legal planning process in place that needed to be followed however the Cabinet Member was happy to visit the site with ward members. Councillor D Harvey: As a newly appointed Cabinet Member for sports, can you tell me more about the conversations you’re having with grassroots clubs across the city about the future of sport in Newport? Response from Councillor Spencer: I’ve been actively engaging with grassroots clubs across Newport as part of our Playing Pitch and Sports Facilities Review, which will underpin our wider future Sports Strategy. The Council has carried out a wide consultation on the strategy, followed by ongoing face-to-face meetings planned for October, and has recruited a dedicated Sports Development Officer for more direct support. Conversations have focused on real community needs—from improving changing facilities, especially for women and girls, to supporting clubs through better digital access and more suitable spaces for training and play. The Cabinet Member also congratulated the Bengal Dragons, for winning an award at the recent FAW McDonald’s Community Grassroots Presentation on Friday 20 September. They also recently ran a street soccer competition during the summer in Pill, which was won by Scorpion Taxi. The Cabinet Member also mentioned Graig Villa Dino who won the Community Football Award for football in Gwent. Supplementary: Could the Cabinet Member keep ward members up to date on sports events in their area. Response: The Cabinet Member agreed that he would keep ward members up to date with any sports issues and was happy to visit sports groups to in various wards to help with any issues. Councillor B Davies: As Cabinet Member for Social Services, can you tell us how moving from the old corporate parenting model to the new community parenting approach will really make a difference for children looked after by Newport City Council. I'd like to know what this means in practice for their support, stability, and future. I also want to say how much I enjoy being part of the committee, and how impressed I am with the hard work from officers, community partners and especially the young people themselves who have helped shape this work. Response from Councillor Lacey: Thank you for the question, and also for your kind words about the work of the committee. I share your pride in what’s been achieved so far, by officers, community partners, and especially by the young people who’ve helped shape this strategy right from the beginning. Moving from the old corporate parenting model to a community parenting approach is a really big step forward for Newport. The old way put the responsibility mainly on social services. What we’re saying now is that care-experienced children and young people do best when the whole community is behind them, not just social services, but housing, education and schools, health, and all areas of the local authority and public services working hand-in-hand with businesses, voluntary groups, and local organisations. It’s about every part of the system playing its role so that young people are supported in a joined-up and consistent way. In practice, this means: Stronger, joined-up support – children and care leavers benefit from the skills and resources of the whole community, not just council services. That means more holistic help, more opportunities, and more consistency. Stability and belonging – with priorities like “Always home” and “I belong,” we’re committing to stable housing and building stronger networks, so young people feel rooted and supported. Better future prospects – with “Developing my skills” as a guiding principle, we’re opening more doors into education, training, and work through our partnerships with schools, colleges, and employers. A stronger voice – young people themselves have been at the heart of shaping this strategy, making sure it reflects their lived experience and ambitions. I also want to put on record how important it is that Newport has recognised care experience as a protected characteristic. That was not just symbolic, and I’m proud we’ve led on this. It keeps the issue firmly in public focus and means we are actively tackling stigma and making sure care-experienced people are not disadvantaged because of their background. Finally, I want to say how proud I am of the officers and community partners who have already stepped up and made a meaningful difference in the lives of some of our young people. It shows this strategy isn’t just words on paper, it’s already happening, with real impact. So, in summary, community parenting is about recognising that every one of us has a role in helping care-experienced children thrive. And with the passion and commitment we’ve already seen, I’m confident we can make a real and lasting difference for our young people. Councillor Routley: Cabinet Member, Regarding Bramble way Llandevaud, which is an adopted highway under the Highways Act 1980, it is unequivocally the legal responsibility of Newport City Council to maintain it to a safe and proper standard. We have definitive evidence, including the council's own measurements, confirming that the road is 50mm below the required finished level due to the omission of the final tarmac layer. This unacceptable state has persisted for 45 years, since its initial adoption by the former Gwent County Council, and has subsequently been under the direct jurisdiction of Newport City Council for the past 35 years. As the Cabinet Member with responsibility for highways, can you detail the specific legal basis under which Newport City Council deems it acceptable for an adopted highway to remain demonstrably incomplete and below standard for such an extended period? Furthermore, what measures will you implement, and by what timeline, to rectify this long-standing and acknowledged deficiency, ensuring compliance with the council's statutory duties under Section 41 of the Highways Act 1980 and mitigating the council's significant potential liability for future incidents or injuries arising from this substandard condition? Response from Councillor R Howells: I understand that the surface of Bramble Way is not finished and topped in a manner which residents would wish for, and for which I would wish. I’m assured by officers that the road is in good structural condition with no defects that meet the Council’s intervention criteria. I know this is still not an ideal position for residents on this street. As with all other adopted highways in NCC, Bramble Way is maintained in accordance with the Highway Asset Management Plan. This regime ensures safety for highway users, and for the Council to be in a position to defend any claims – it does this by showing that it has adhered to a code of specified standards, and prioritisation on resurfacing its roads. As you will be aware from the Highways Asset Management Plan, the current highway maintenance backlog stands at £119M. This year we have invested over £6M into improving the highway asset - this is the largest for over a decade. Unfortunately, though, it is not possible to resurface (or in this case surface) every road we would like to, and as mentioned above, we are obliged to do this in a particular order of priority. We don’t have any wriggle room on this – there are a lot of roads I would love to see improved, and I hope that we will be able to invest year on year going forward to start to tackle that backlog. Supplementary: Bramble Way was not completed to an adopted standard and was 50mm below the standard level as there was no tarmac layer. Did the Cabinet Member therefore agree that the road was defective and how was this to be corrected. Response: The Cabinet Member could not advise on legal position and referred back to the Highways Asset Management Plan which kept residents safe. The Cabinet Member reiterated that it was hoped to resurface the road along with other roads within Newport but as mentioned before lack of funding was an issue. The meeting concluded at 21:09.
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