Celebrating Walk to School Week with Gilwern Primary School

Students, teachers, councillors and representatives from Living Streets have got together to celebrate Walk to School Week in Gilwern by walking along an upgraded walking route.

They were joined by ‘Strider’, the Walk to School mascot of Living Streets Walking Charity, which works with Gilwern School to support and encourage walking to school.

Using the Welsh Government’s Active Travel Fund, a popular path in Gilwern has been upgraded to help improve access for local residents to get to and from the local primary school from homes east of Gilwern.

The path, running parallel to Ty Mawr Road, provides an improved walking route away from the road. The original path was weathered, leaving a rough and unusable route.

This scheme has upgraded the path, so it is now surfaced and provides improved accessibility through the year, especially for those using wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs. To mitigate any impact on the ground, surrounding plants, trees and wildlife the path is of a ‘no-dig’ construction style meaning the path is laid on top of the existing ground rather than digging down into the ground.

The works included:

· Widening the path

· Installation of a machine-laid, porous surface

· Addition of tactile pads on crossing points at either end of the path

Monmouthshire County Council Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Housing and Tourism, Cllr Sara Burch, said: “Upgrades like these are vital to enable as many of us as possible to use active travel for our day-to-day journeys.

“With warmer weather hopefully on the way, I can’t wait to see how the path is used by residents and visitors.

“Llanelly Community Council were clear that this path was a priority for action, and I am glad that we have been able to complete it.”

Hundreds of students participate in Monmouthshire water safety event

Schools from across Monmouthshire have taken part in a pair of water safety events.

Around 500 students attended the events, which were organised with the support of the RNLI, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Gwent Police and Swim Wales.

All pupils walked away from the event having taken part in four pool-based workshops focused on the Water Safety Code.

This was followed by four dry-side workshops, outlining the dangers of water and the involvement of emergency services and other partners in keeping people safe in these environments. 

The Water Safety Code is based on research commissioned by the RNLI in 2018 as part of their Youth Education programme. Since then, it has widely been adopted by the UK National Water Forum, of which organisations including Swim Wales, Swim England, RLSS, RoSPA and the Fire and Rescue Services are part.

The Water Safety Code offers easy-to-remember information designed to educate individuals across the UK and Ireland. It encourages people to make critical decisions early and helps them understand the appropriate actions to take in an emergency.

The code instructs that, if you are around water, you must:

• Stop and think – always swim in a safe place.
• Stay together – always swim with friends or family, or at a lifeguarded venue.

In an emergency, you should:

• Call 999 – If you see someone in trouble, you must tell somebody or go to the nearest telephone and dial 999. Then ask for the Fire Service at inland water sites and the Coastguard at the beach. Throw something that floats for the person to hold on to, but don’t enter the water to help.

For more information on the Water Safety Code, visit https://www.swimwales.org/water-safety-code/

A Monmouthshire County Council spokesperson said: “Learning how to be safe around water is a vital skill, especially as we begin to head into the warmer part of the year.

“I am pleased to see that so many students have taken the time to acquaint themselves with the Water Safety Code.

“If you are heading out to one of Monmouthshire’s beautiful rivers or to the coast, please do so safely.”

Hannah Guise, Learn to Swim Manager at Swim Wales, said: “These festivals demonstrate the power of collaboration in teaching and reinforcing potentially life-saving water safety messages to students. Combining theory with practical activities in the water significantly enhances the learning experience. We

were delighted to support MonLife in delivering these festivals and would encourage other local authorities to follow this excellent example.”

Play parks in Chepstow reopen after redevelopment

Monmouthshire County Council is pleased to report that work to upgrade two play parks in Chepstow has been completed.

The play parks at Western Avenue and Piggy’s Hill have been redeveloped to support a range of ages.

To ensure the new designs reflect the needs of local families, engagement was carried out with parents and children through online surveys – via Let’s Talk Monmouthshire – and direct consultation during the Food and Fun summer programme.

The response was encouraging, with input received from a wide range of age groups.

As a result of this collaborative effort, we are excited to include features such as the supply and installation of the net jumper at Western Avenue, made possible through additional funding from Chepstow Town Council.

At the play park at Piggy’s Hill, Chepstow Town Council provided additional funding to secure a slide unity climber.

These enhancements reflect our commitment to listening to the community and delivering inclusive, engaging spaces for children of all abilities.

The project has been funded by Welsh Government All Wales Play opportunists capital funding with additional funding from Chepstow Town Council.

Monmouthshire County Council Cabinet Member for Equalities and Engagement, Cllr Angela Sandles, said: “It is wonderful to see the play parks in Chepstow given a new lease of life.

“I cannot wait to hear how much the children enjoy them.

“Hopefully, the play parks will help the children of Chepstow and beyond to play and stay active for years to come.”

To find out more about the Western Avenue play par project, visit Western Avenue – Monlife

To find out more about the Piggy’s Hill play par project, visit Bulwark Park – Monlife

Applications now open for Monmouthshire Cultural Partnership Forum

Following the launch of the Monmouthshire Cultural Strategy, applications are now open to join the Monmouthshire Cultural Partnership Forum.

Across Monmouthshire, culture is lived. Professionals and volunteers enrich the lives of residents at every age, from our youngest to our oldest, helping build a strong sense of belonging and pride.

The Monmouthshire Cultural Partnership Forum will bring together people who care deeply about culture in Monmouthshire and want to help shape its future. Members will play a key role in developing the action plan for cultural activity, sharing insight, championing local activity and helping ensure culture continues to thrive across the county.

We are seeking a broad and diverse range of voices that reflect Monmouthshire’s rich cultural landscape. From heritage, arts and creativity to community‑led activity, education, events and volunteering.

Whether you are an artist, organiser, volunteer, practitioner, educator or simply passionate about culture, we would love to hear from you.

By joining the forum, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Help shape priorities for culture in Monmouthshire
• Influence decision‑making and future activity
• Connect with others working across the cultural sector
• Celebrate and champion the creativity already happening in our communities

If you are enthusiastic about driving culture forward and want to help create meaningful, memorable experiences for people across Monmouthshire, this is your opportunity to get involved.

Applications are now open and close on 1 May 2026. To apply, please visit: www.letstalkmonmouthshire.co.uk/cultural-partnership-forum

Tracey Thomas, Head of Culture, Community Learning and Events, said: “Culture is at the heart of what makes Monmouthshire such a special place to live, work and visit.

“This new forum is about listening, learning and working together. We want to hear from people with lived experience, fresh ideas and a passion for their communities, so that culture in Monmouthshire continues to be inclusive, ambitious and rooted in place.”

Monmouthshire celebrates creativity at Cultural Celebration and Networking Event 

On Wednesday, 25 March 2026, creatives, partners, and community organisations gathered for the Monmouthshire Cultural Celebration and Networking Event at the Borough Theatre in Abergavenny. 

This event showcased the diverse cultural activities in Monmouthshire and facilitated discussions on the importance of creativity in strengthening communities and supporting the local economy.

Attendees were greeted with a vibrant reception featuring stilt walkers and an AI-inspired dance performance by young people from DanceBlast, setting an energetic tone for the event. 

A highlight was the launch of Monmouthshire’s Cultural Strategy 2025-2035, which outlines a visionary plan for the next decade. This strategy emphasises that culture is not an isolated endeavour, but a key driver of wellbeing, economic growth, community resilience, and collective identity. 

The event also introduced the National Year of Reading Programme, featuring award-winning writer Bethany Handley, who read an excerpt from her upcoming book, My Body is a Meadow. 

Presentations throughout the day highlighted various creative projects, including art exhibitions and theatre productions, with a strong focus on youth engagement through initiatives like Creative Futures and Improv Stars Academy. 

A Q&A panel discussion, led by Anita Holford, addressed funding opportunities for creatives in Monmouthshire, with insights from representatives of Arts Council Wales, Social Business Wales, and Abergavenny Town Council.

Tracey Thomas, Head of Culture, Community Learning and Events, said: “The launch of our Cultural Strategy is a proud moment for Monmouthshire. It reflects the incredible creativity that exists across our communities and our shared ambition to ensure culture plays a central role in shaping the county’s future; strengthening communities, supporting the local economy and inspiring future generations.” 

“It was especially encouraging to see so many young people involved and to hear directly from creatives about the opportunities and challenges they face. Events like this help us build stronger connections, share knowledge and ensure support is accessible across the sector.”

For more details on Monmouthshire’s Cultural Strategy, visit: www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/policies-and-plans/

Major nature recovery programme to be delivered across Gwent

A major programme of nature recovery will be delivered across Gwent after the Gwent Green Grid Partnership secured £999,974. This project is funded by the Nature Networks Programme. It is being delivered by the Heritage Fund, on behalf of the Welsh Government.

The Gwent Green Grid Partnership (GGGP) is a collaborative initiative between the five local authorities of Gwent, working alongside Natural Resources Wales and a range of partners and stakeholders. Since its launch in 2020, the partnership has been driving forward efforts to enhance the region’s natural environment.

Monmouthshire County Council is leading the three‑year programme, in collaboration with Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Newport and Torfaen local authorities, alongside Natural Resources Wales and a range of partner organisations.

The funding will support targeted habitat restoration across freshwater and wetland environments, helping to strengthen ecological networks and improve biodiversity across the region. The programme will also deliver natural flood management and sustainable drainage solutions, supporting more resilient landscapes and communities.

In addition to environmental improvements, the project will focus on the people and communities involved. It will promote education, volunteering, and green skills development, helping communities and schools engage with nature while building long-term capacity for nature recovery throughout Gwent.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, Cllr Catrin Maby, said: “This funding represents a significant step forward for nature recovery across Gwent. By working in partnership across local authorities and with Natural Resources Wales, we can deliver practical action on the ground that restores habitats, supports biodiversity and helps communities reconnect with the natural environment.” Find out more about the Gwent Green Grid Partnership here: www.monlife.co.uk/outdoor/green-infrastructure/gwent-green-grid-partnership/

New exhibition captures beauty of the River Wye

A new exhibition has recently opened at Chepstow Museum tracing the ever‑changing rhythms and moods of the River Wye from its source at Pumlumon to its tidal meeting with the Severn at Chepstow.

Flow / Llif – The River Wye from Source to Sea is a major new exhibition by Welsh artist Lucy Burden.

A private viewing was held on 19 February, where guests enjoyed an evening of lively and thoughtful conversations sparked by Burden’s evocative landscapes.

Burden’s work connects with the Museum’s Wye Tour Gallery, inviting visitors to consider how artists over the centuries have responded to the Wye’s dramatic scenery. A short film by Steve Bennett, created during the Wye Valley Walk’s 50th Anniversary events led by Ruth Waycott, accompanies the exhibition.

Attending the event, Monmouthshire County Council’s Chair Cllr Peter Strong said: “Visitors have been travelling to this valley for centuries, seeking the picturesque turn in the river or the sudden drama of a cliff. Lucy’s paintings carry that lineage forward — not as a repetition, but as a modern reading.”

The exhibition has been developed with support from Wye Valley National Landscape, the Wye Valley Walk Partnership, and Monmouthshire Museums. After Chepstow, Flow / Llif will travel to The Pavilion, Castle Grounds, Hereford with additional works expanding the series.

Monmouthshire County Council Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Housing and Tourism, Cllr Sara Burch, said: “The Wye Valley has been drawing tourists and artists to our region for years.

“I would urge all those who can to visit this exhibition to see the beauty of the Wye captured quite magnificently.

“The exhibition is just another wonderful reason to visit Chepstow Museum, the town as a whole and Monmouthshire itself.”

Flow/Llif will be on display at Chepstow Museum until 9 June.

All weather pitch at Caldicot Leisure Centre set for major refurbishment

Monmouthshire County Council is delighted to announce a significant upgrade to the all‑weather pitch at Caldicot Leisure Centre, marking an exciting step forward for community sport in the area.

The project will see the current 2G synthetic surface replaced with a state‑of‑the‑art 3G pitch, delivering a safer, more durable, and high‑quality playing experience for schools, clubs and local residents.

This investment forms part of the council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing sport and play facilities, creating vibrant and accessible spaces that inspire participation and enjoyment for all ages.

The development is being made possible thanks to the support of key funding partners: the Cymru Football Foundation, Sport Wales, and contributions from the education sector.

To secure this investment, the project demonstrates a clear community and school need, guaranteed community access outside of school hours, and compliance with FAW/FIFA‑approved 3G technical standards.

A total of £456,000 has been secured for the refurbishment, including:

·        £206,000 from the Cymru Football Foundation’s Fit‑For‑Future Facilities Programme, supporting the growth of grassroots football across Wales.

·        £150,000 from the Sport Wales Capital Grant, helping provide sustainable, modern and accessible sporting environments.

Construction is expected to begin this month, with completion targeted for April 2026.

Progress updates will be shared throughout the project via a dedicated web page – www.monlife.co.uk/caldicot-leisure-centre-development/ –  and through Monmouthshire and MonLife Social media channels.

Cllr Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equalities and Engagement, said: “These upgraded facilities will be a huge boost to the town and beyond.

“The new pitch will be available for school pupils during curriculum hours, local football clubs and teams, community sports groups, and members of the public.

“It will also enable increased participation for women and girls in a variety of sports and will prove to be a fantastic asset for Caldicot and the wider area.”

Director at the Cymru Football Foundation, Aled Lewis, said: “The Cymru Football Foundation is committed to investing in facilities that inspire communities. This project at Caldicot Leisure Centre will be essential for the growth of football in the local area. 

“A huge thank you to our partners U.K Government and Sport Wales in supporting the development of this new facility – through the power of collaboration, we’re making huge strides in improving football facilities in Wales on and off the pitch.” 

A new chapter for a historic Monmouth landmark

Monmouthshire County Council will commence work on enhancing the Shire Hall in Monmouth. 

To bring this ambitious vision to fruition, Shire Hall will temporarily close to the public from 20 December 2025, to allow essential work to commence. The building is expected to remain closed to the public until early 2027.

Supported by a £2.8 million investment, including £1.5 million from the National Heritage Lottery Fund, this project will see Shire Hall revitalised as an inspiring community museum and dynamic learning hub.

What’s Changing?

• The revitalised Shire Hall will offer innovative displays telling Monmouth’s story, flexible learning spaces, visible object storage, and improved conditions for our internationally significant collections.
• Upgrades to the heating system and energy efficiency will enhance environmental sustainability, reducing the carbon footprint of this Grade I listed building.
• Redesigned retail spaces and a renewed visitor welcome will improve the experience for all, supporting Monmouth’s regeneration and the Destination Management Plan.
• The project will remove physical, financial, and social barriers to access, ensuring Shire Hall is a welcoming space for everyone.

Extensive consultation with a wide range of communities, including ethnic minority groups and individuals living with dementia, has shaped the project. 

Initiatives such as the Dynamic Collections and Anti-Racist Wales projects have already resulted in co-curated exhibitions and more inclusive museum experiences. A Citizens Panel will continue to guide future exhibitions and events, ensuring ongoing community representation.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Housing & Tourism, Cllr Sara Burch, said: “The Shire Hall has served Monmouth in many ways over its history, most recently as a place for people affected by flooding to come for support. We look forward to its future as an exciting community museum, telling the many stories of Monmouth and showing our internationally important collections.”

While Shire Hall is closed, we will keep the community informed and engaged through regular updates and behind-the-scenes insights into the transformation. 

We look forward to welcoming visitors back in early 2027 to a Shire Hall that is more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable than ever before.

For more information and updates, please visit www.monlife.co.uk/heritage/the-shire-hall/