Latest News

Residents warned after reports of rogue driveway traders across Monmouthshire

Published: 22 Jul 26

Monmouthshire County Council’s Trading Standards is urging residents to remain vigilant following reports of doorstep callers offering driveway and tarmac services across the county. The warning follows reports from householders of individuals knocking on doors and offering to carry out surfacing work. Trading Standards advises residents to be cautious of any trader who arrives uninvited and pressures them into making an immediate decision. Cllr Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equalities and Engagement, said: "We are concerned by reports of doorstep traders using high-pressure sales tactics and misleading claims to gain the trust of residents. Everyone has the right to feel safe and confident in their own home, and no one should ever feel pressured into making a decision on the spot. Reputable businesses will be happy to provide information, answer questions and allow people time to consider their options. Use recognised trader approval schemes such as TrustMark and Buy With Confidence. Anyone who experiences or witnesses suspicious doorstep activity is encouraged to contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133. The service works closely with Trading Standards to identify and tackle rogue trading activity. Read More...

Gwent Neighbourhood Matters

Published: 12 Dec 25

Gwent Police has launched a new online service for residents wanting to know more about the work of their local police officers. Neighbourhood Matters is a free-to-join community messaging and engagement service that puts readers at the heart of its content. It enables residents to sign up and receive updates from their neighbourhood policing team on recent arrests and charges, appeals for information, events and more. Users can choose they type of update they’d like to receive based on their preferences, whether that’s crime prevention advice, news of recent events, or even alerts from partners like Neighbourhood Watch and Action Fraud. Within the system, the public also have the chance to have their say on local policing priorities and respond to officers’ updates. Visit https://www.gwentneighbourhoodmatters.co.uk/ and subscribe. Read More...

Wildlife-Friendly Gardens: Small Changes, Big Impact

Published: 28 Oct 25

Even the smallest garden can become a haven for biodiversity. By choosing native plants, avoiding pesticides, and letting parts of your garden grow wild, you support pollinators, birds, and small mammals. Consider creating a log pile, installing a bird box, or planting wildflowers. These simple steps help reverse habitat loss and connect fragmented ecosystems across our community. Read More...