LLANGWM Community councillors are to canvass local people on whether they would be in favour of traffic calming through the village.

The Clerk told the September meeting of the council that their request for improved safety through Llangwm village had been "noted" by Monmouthshire County Council and would be taken into account when the strategy was developed and local communities consulted.

Much discussion ensued concerning the desirability of a speed limit through the village. Most councillors felt this would contribute to road safety, although Cllr Mike Foster disagreed. On Cllr Gwyn Rowlands' suggestion, it was agreed to canvass local opinion on the issue, together with Cllr Mike Sheath's suggestion that additionally there should be some form of speed restricting device such as a sleeping policeman.

Cllr Rowlands reported two large potholes at the entrance to Wern Farm, Llansoy. He also asked the Clerk to repeat a request for a sign "unsuitable for heavy vehicles" to point down the road opposite the glider field at Gwernesney - another large vehicle had recently been stuck in the lane and had to by towed out, resulting in considerable roadside damage. Cllr Foster asked for a sign indicating the road to Gaer Fawr at Nantygelli crossroads. Cllr Ms Erica Dunster told councillors that the surface of Court Robin Lane was severely damaged by heavy construction vehicles. The Clerk said he was requesting the replacement of a damaged wooden fence guarding the stream opposite the Toll House at Chapel Road, Llangwm. Arrangements are to be made for the repair of the bench outside the hall.

Councillors have asked the Clerk to write to thank the Highways' authority for their work on the dip in the B4235 which had been very satisfactorily repaired.

After a gap of 11 months, the council has finally received a letter from Monmouthshire County Council proposing that a public transport information board be affixed to a telegraph pole by the Llangwm bus shelter, and asking the council to reply within two days! The Clerk phoned the same day to say he thought the community council would have no objection but BT probably would (their agreement had not yet been sought). Not enough boards were available. The Clerk pointed out that the matter was first raised by MCC in March 1997!

The council are planning to visit the Welsh Assembly on Tuesday, October 31st.

Cllr Sheath told the meeting that a request for funding by Llangwm Local History Group had been refused because the application failed to meet the necessary criteria. Cllr Foster queried whether the council should set up and operate the web site set that had been proposed by the group. Welcoming this approach, the Chairman, Cllr Lyn Bennett said this would cost about £45 - £50 per annum to run. It was agreed to discuss the matter further at the next meeting which will be held at St John's Hall, Llangwm, on Tuesday, November 21st, commencing at 7.30pm.