News - June 2009

June 2009

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TOWN COUNCIL STANDS FIRM ON SUPERMARKET
An attempt by Monmouthshire County Council officials to persuade Caldicot town council to reverse its opposition to plans for a supermarket on the comprehensive school field failed. Councillors John Marshall and Tony Easson, supporters of the scheme, requested a special meeting to allow MCC representatives to again put their plans to the town council, but following the meeting councillors voted to postpone any decision for four weeks until more information is available. Councillors were supportive of a second supermarket in principle but remain unconvinced that one on the proposed site would help to regenerate the town centre. In response, MCC suspended planning work on the project.
Meanwhile, the opening of the new Waitrose supermarket, which replaced Somerfield, was a great success. The new store seemed to be bringing shoppers from surrounding towns and villages. Local cynics have cast doubt on whether there is a market for bottled squid in Caldicot and are monitoring the sales.

FLOODING SOLUTION IN SIGHT
New steps to resolve flooding problems in Castle Lea and Caldicot Road are set to go ahead with plans by Welsh Water to improve the storm drain system and to construct a storm water pumping system in the grounds of the country park. The scheme is likely to cost £2.5 million.

CROSSING TO BE BUILT
Following a campaign by local residents, including 22 year old blind woman Laura Wilson, funding has been granted for a pelican crossing near the corner of Sandy Lane and Jubilee Way. It is, however, likely to be spring 2010 before the crossing is built.

FLAGPOLE SAGA REACHES CONCLUSION?
Following a disagreement over the height of flagpoles outside the town council offices, the Chamber of Commerce has agreed to lower the flagpole which it recently installed. The Chamber of Commerce insists, however, that it does not accept that the flagpole was initially installed incorrectly. Meanwhile, the union flag stolen from the flagpole has been returned.

MINISTER VISITS CASTLE
Alun Fred Jones, Welsh Assembly Government heritage minister visited Caldicot Castle and pledged support for proposals for restoration and improved maintenance.

HOUSE PRICE WATCH
The cheapest property advertised in the local press for sale in Caldicot at the end of June 2009 was a first floor flat with two double bedrooms in Longfellow Road at £94,950. The cheapest house was a one-bedroom mid link starter home in Cobb crescent at £99,950. The most expensive was a four bedroom detached property in Clos Aled at £249,950.