The judicial review of the Welsh Government’s handling of their plans for the M4 has found in their favour. Friends of the Earth Cymru, who asked for the review, and the Gwent Wildlife Trust are disappointed with the decision but have vowed to continue opposing the scheme in any way they can.
Ground breaking legislation – the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Bill – which puts Wales at the forefront of sustainable development, according to ministers, has been passed by the National Assembly. When it comes into force the new law will mean that, for the first time, many public bodies that provide services to people across Wales must do so in a sustainable way. The new law will expect them to work together better; involve people reflecting the diversity of communities; look to the long term as well as focusing on now and take action to try and stop problems getting worse – or even stop them happening in the first place
Building on last year’s successful inaugural event, you are invited an event to launch the creative process for the Wye Valley River Festival 2016 which will take place in the Shire Hall, Monmouth, on Thursday, 26 March, at 4.30pm and repeated at 6.30pm. They are broadening the invitation to schools, youth groups, boat clubs, fishermen, canoe operators anyone who has an interest in playing a part in creating this unique event. More information from Sarah Sawyer, community@wyevalleyaonb.org.uk, 01600 710844.
The Annual National Gathering of Community Woodlands in Wales comes to Abergavenny on 27/28 March – a lively mix of practical demonstrations, thought provoking workshops, good food, good company and inspiring site visits. Contact Rosie Strang for more informationto book your place: 07966 071073 info@llaisygoedwig.org.uk.
Bryn y Cwm Community Forum is organising a husting at Abergavenny’s Angel Hotel on Wednesday, 1 April (7.00pm) and Transition Monmouth have one at Bridges Community Centre on Wednesday, 22 April (7.30pm). There could be up to seven candidates to question about environmental issues.
The Brecon Beacons Management Plan is up for review. Whilst this might not seem like the most engaging subject in the world, the plan sets the direction of work for the whole National Park Authority and also other agencies who are involved in its management. It covers a wide ranging set of proposals from ecosystems management, to recreation, fun and enjoyment. The consultation process runs up to 24 April 2015. You can view copies of the draft Management Plan on the Authority’s website: http://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/the-authority/who-we-are/npmp/management-plan-review/. If you would like to respond to the consultation (or if you have any questions) please send your comments to their Management Plan officer, Matt Scanlon matthew.scanlon@beacons-npa.gov.uk. You can also call him on 01874 620465.
Abergavenny and Monmouth have been shortlisted by FCFCG for potential new community supported agriculture projects – partnerships between food producers and their local community, sharing risks and rewards. FCFCG’s Wales page is at http://www.farmgarden.org.uk/farms-gardens/your-region/wales – you can sign up for their e-newsletter.
Do you know of an inspirational individual or group that has made a real difference to their area or to the lives of others? If so, why not nominate them for a WCVA Wales Volunteer of the Year Award? There are six categories for nominations, including ‘green volunteer’. Find out more and make your nomination at http://www.wcva.org.uk/what-we-do/celebrating-the-sector/wales-volunteer-of-the-year-awards?seq.lang=en-GB
Two public inquiries have started, the outcomes of which are likely to have a major impact on Gwent. The challenge that the Welsh Government contravened a European environmental directive by failing to make a proper assessment of alternatives to their selected M4 ‘black route’ across the Levels is expected to last about three days. The inquiry concerning the loss of, and compensatory provision of, common land to accommodate the Circuit of Wales in Blaenau Gwent could last eight days.
If you remember or were one of 7,000 who contributed to last year’s National Conversation initiated by Cynnal Cymru-Sustain Wales in association with the Welsh Government’s Future Generations Bill, you may like to read the outcome at http://www.thewaleswewant.co.uk/blog/wales-we-want/wales-we-want-report-reveals-future-you-want.