This month we had a visit from a senior Highways engineer to discuss various matters, but in particular the problems faced by disabled people at the crossroads in Caerwent. Problems associated with the ramp behind Mayberry have led to consideration of alterations to the whole junction. This, if CADW agree, could make it possible to provide a footpath each side of the road on the Caldicot Road and possibly enable larger traffic to turn right easier as one of the options to address the traffic control problem in the centre of Caerwent. Watch this space.

Other schemes such as in Llanfair Discoed are progressing now and will do so over the coming months we are assured. Llanfair will also soon get the fence for the play area now that the weather is getting better. The bus shelter has at last been repaired.

It seems that a last-minute objection over the 50 mph limit on the A48 has been overruled and that we will see the signs erected soon. Please observe this new limit. It is the only way that we will have any chance of reducing accidents at the eastern entrance to Caerwent, and control the speed of traffic at Crick. Extending the central reservation towards that junction should also help and it is hoped that this will happen soon.

Gray Hill continued to have its biodiversity programme progressed. More rolling of bracken and additional fencing and gates should both encourage the natural habitat and reduce erosion from motorbikes etc. These are now a problem at Highmoor Hill. If you see anyone scrambling in unsuitable places please contact the police who are anxious to stop this activity.

We are continuing to explore ways of ensuring the Old Gym stays available for the Youth Club and other groups that use it. The MoD have to sell off surplus property and we are anxious to secure the property.

The water problem at Five Lanes is now being monitored by Newport City Council as the water comes from their area. As regards the algae problem, we are assured that this is no longer in existence and that the signs at the Reservoir are three years old. Obviously we will need to keep an eye on what happens here. Will the algae reappear and will the water levels be properly controlled? We will try to ensure that Newport do keep control.

Concern has been expressed about the proposal to remove asbestos at a site within the MoD. At the time of the application for planning permission we established that the contractors and the MoD had laid down very stringent regulations for this and it was felt that the controls were sufficient and that there was no reason to object. Note that the Environment Agency can and will check compliance.

If anyone wants to e-mail the Council on any matter the address is CaerwentCouncil@aol.com.

Phil Murphy

Chairman, Caerwent Community Council