January 2003

January 2003

February 2003>>

SUSPECTED ARSON
A major fire which destroyed much of the BEC vehicle hire business on Caldicot's Severn Bridge industrial estate is being treated as possible arson. Seven appliances from all over Gwent attended the fire, which caused damage to buildings and vehicles to an estimated value of £300,000. Anybody with information is urged to phone local police on 01291 623993.

SCHOOL LAND SALE GIVEN GO-AHEAD
Monmouthshire County Council has agreed in principle to sell approximately four acres of land presently used by the comprehensive school. The land has been identified by consultants as a possible site for a new supermarket. School governors have already given their agreement in principle as long as the income from its sale is used on improving the school site and that there is no net loss of provision for games and P.E. lessons. It appears, however, that some of the information given to the council was incorrect. Councillor Mike Smith is reported in the local press as saying that the land was "scrubland" which had "no useful purpose for school activities". It is understood, however, that the land includes a large corner of the school playing field, including an existing football pitch.

CCTV SET TO COME ON LINE
Caldicot's closed circuit television cameras, which aim to cut crime in the town centre, are due to come on line next month.

DOG'S MESS CAUSES CONCERN
The problem of dog's messing on the town's playing areas continues to cause concern. Town councillor David Evans has continued to raise the matter at council meetings. Mike Hobbs, Chairman of Caldicot mini-rugby reported that a young player had to be have blood tests after getting some in his mouth during a game at the town's Longfellow Road ground, while a games lesson at St Mary's Primary School had to be cancelled because there was so much on the school field.

MAN ON GUN CHARGES
A Newport man was remanded in custody at Newport Crown Court on charges of possessing a gun and threatening to kill two members of the public and two police officers on the night of Saturday 19 January.

HOUSE PRICE WATCH
The cheapest house advertised for sale in Caldicot at the end of January is a two-bedroom semi-detached with off-road parking and gardens, with an asking price of £89,950.