🦜 Monmouthshire and Forest of Dean Freebooter
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Monmouth Town Council approves funding for bus station improvements
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth-town-council-approves-funding-for-bus-station-improvements/
Published: September 4, 2025 12:34
Monmouth Town Council has agreed to contribute to the development
of the town’s bus station. The project follows the plans outlined in
the Placemaking Plan Consultation and has been
identified as a priority by both residents and the Placemaking Steering…
Monmouth MP presses Government for ban on trans conversion therapy
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth-mp-presses-government-for-ban-on-trans-conversion-therapy/
Published: September 4, 2025 12:26
MP for Monmouth
Catherine Fookes, pressed the Labour Government on it’s pledge to
ban conversion therapy for trans people during a House
of Commons debate. She raised the Government’s commitment and asked
when legislation would be introduced to bring the…
Monmouth eyes major new festival after carnival success
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth-eyes-major-new-festival-after-carnival-success--/
Published: September 4, 2025 09:19
Monmouth could soon be home to a brand-new music festival, following
a pitch at the latest Full Council meeting on Monday
14th July 2025.
Ceri Jones, one of the organisers behind Monmouth
Carnival, addressed councillors during the public participation…
Ellie Chowns takes on Starmer, new Green leader under fire
https://freebooter.uk/posts/ellie-chowns-takes-on-starmer,-new-green-leader-under-fire/
Published: September 3, 2025 14:53
Ellie Chowns, Green Party MP for North Herefordshire, went
head-to-head with Prime Minister Kier Starmer over climate policy today
(3 September 2025).
Chowns slammed the Conservatives’ plans to extract more oil and gas
from the North Sea, calling it…
September events at Mitchel Troy Village Hall
https://freebooter.uk/posts/september-events-at-mitchel-troy-village-hall/
Published: September 3, 2025 13:46
Mitchel Troy, September 2025 – Looking for a place
to hold a birthday party, a meeting, or even a club gathering? Mitchel
Troy Village Hall has you covered! From bridge games and gardening
competitions to music and art classes, there’s something for…
Prime Minister's Questions summary
https://freebooter.uk/posts/prime-ministers-questions-summary/
Published: September 3, 2025 13:41
Key announcements & updates
Defense Deal: UK wins largest ever Norwegian
shipbuilding contract (ÂŁ10bn), securing 15 years of shipbuilding jobs in
Scotland and across the UK.
Childcare: Launch of 30 hours free
childcare for working families, saving…
Overnight A40 closure at Dixton Roundabout, Monmouth for three weeks
https://freebooter.uk/posts/overnight-a40-closure-at-dixton-roundabout,-monmouth-for-three-weeks/
Published: September 3, 2025 13:09
Drivers using the A40 at Dixton Roundabout,
Monmouthshire should expect overnight closures for road
works starting 28 August 2025.
The Welsh Government has issued an order under the Road Traffic
Regulation Act 1984 to carry out essential works on or near…
Overnight A40 closures and restrictions near Ross-on-Wye from September
https://freebooter.uk/posts/overnight-a40-closures-and-restrictions-near-ross-on-wye-from-september/
Published: September 3, 2025 13:07
Drivers using the A40 between Ross-on-Wye and the England/Wales
border are being warned to expect seven months of overnight
closures, speed limits, and restrictions as major repair work
continues on the road.
National Highways has confirmed a new order…
Monmouth site could host four goods vehicles under Hughes Forrest licence change
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth-site-could-host-four-goods-vehicles-under-hughes-forrest-licence-change/
Published: September 3, 2025 13:02
Hughes Forrest Ltd, based at Bolt Street, Newport (NP20
2UP), has applied to change its existing Goods Vehicle
Operator’s Licence.
The company is proposing to add a new operating centre at:
Unit
25, Wonastow Road Industrial Estate, Monmouth, NP25 5JB
If…
September road closures announced by Herefordshire Council
https://freebooter.uk/posts/september-road-closures-announced-by-herefordshire-council/
Published: September 2, 2025 10:35
Herefordshire Council has confirmed a series of temporary road
closures across the county this September as part of a resurfacing
programme.
The works will begin on 1 September 2025. Each
closure is required for safety reasons while works are carried out.…
Road closures in Forest of Dean for September
https://freebooter.uk/posts/road-closures-in-forest-of-dean-for-september/
Published: September 2, 2025 10:23
Gloucestershire County Council has announced a series of temporary
road closures across the Forest of Dean during September 2025. The
closures are needed to carry out essential maintenance and improvement
works, with diversion routes signposted locally.…
Lydney Council mows down opposition in unanimous decision to purchase mighty Kubota F391
https://freebooter.uk/posts/lydney-council-mows-down-opposition-in-unanimous-decision-to-purchase-mighty-kubota-f391/
Published: August 29, 2025 11:06
It was the kind of council debate that could make or break the lawns
of Lydney for generations to come: should the town invest in a brand-new
grass mower? After much deliberation (and, one assumes, a few wistful
glances out at Bathurst Park’s expansive…
What’s on in Coleford: Upcoming events in the Forest of Dean
https://freebooter.uk/posts/what’s-on-in-coleford:-upcoming-events-in-the-forest-of-dean/
Published: August 29, 2025 09:58
Coleford is set for a busy year of community gatherings, cultural
celebrations, and festive fun. Here’s a look at the highlights coming up
in 2025 and early 2026.
🌿 Coleford Country Market
Every Friday & Saturday, 10am–12pm
(March–December)
Next to the…
Forest MP hits out at court backlogs and calls for reform
https://freebooter.uk/posts/forest-mp-hits-out-at-court-backlogs-and-calls-for-reform/
Published: August 28, 2025 18:46
Forest of Dean MP Matt Bishop has warned that tackling the growing
Crown Court backlog requires more than simply adding sitting days—it
needs fundamental reform, during a commons debate (3 July).
“With the Crown Court backlog that we inherited at such high…
Forest of Dean Freeminers’ rights protected in Government coal plans
https://freebooter.uk/posts/forest-of-dean-freeminers’-rights-protected-in-government-coal-plans/
Published: August 28, 2025 15:29
Forest of Dean MP Matt Bishop has pressed the government on its plans
to restrict new coal mining licences, asking how his department will
protect the unique rights of local Freeminers (7 July 2025).
Mister Bishop asked the Secretary of State for Energy…
Monmouth MP makes case for Magor and Undy station in Commons debate
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth-mp-makes-case-for-magor-and-undy-station-in-commons-debate/
Published: August 28, 2025 14:19
Monmouthshire MP Catherine Fookes made a strong case in the House of
Commons (8 July 2025) for a new station at Magor and Undy, highlighting
its potential to transform local transport and open up jobs for
residents without cars. Speaking during a debate on…
UK justice system faces urgent reforms amid backlogs and calls to protect jury trials
https://freebooter.uk/posts/uk-justice-system-faces-urgent-reforms-amid-backlogs-and-calls-to-protect-jury-trials/
Published: August 28, 2025 13:47
The House of Commons heard extensive debate (9 July) on the state of
the UK criminal justice system, as MPs pressed the Government on
backlogs, court delays, and the future of jury trials. The discussion
followed the release of Sir Brian Leveson’s report,…
Monmouth MP Catherine Fookes defends Labour's autumn budget
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth-mp-catherine-fookes-defends-labours-autumn-budget/
Published: August 28, 2025 13:35
Monmouth MP Catherine Fookes has defended Labour’s
autumn budget, and how it impacts Welsh farmers.
Speaking on 16 July 2025, Fookes pointed out that
the Welsh Government’s budget contains over £300
million to support farmers and accused Plaid Cymru and…
Public asked for views on Monmouthshire’s flood risk plans
https://freebooter.uk/posts/public-asked-for-views-on-monmouthshire’s-flood-risk-plans/
Published: August 28, 2025 12:50
Monmouthshire County Council is asking residents to share their views
on how the county manages flood risk. A public consultation is now open
on the council’s draft Local Flood Risk Management
Strategy, which sets out plans for the next six years.
The…
New walking routes connect the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean to Britain’s national network
https://freebooter.uk/posts/new-walking-routes-connect-the-wye-valley-and-forest-of-dean-to-britain’s-national-network/
Published: August 27, 2025 23:00
A growing national project is opening up new opportunities for
walkers in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean.
Slow Ways, a non-profit
initiative, is building a walking network that connects every town,
city, and national landscape in Britain. The idea is,…
Forest of Dean public toilets: where to find them
https://freebooter.uk/posts/forest-of-dean-public-toilets:-where-to-find-them/
Published: August 27, 2025 17:04
The Forest of Dean District Council provides several public toilet
sites across the district for residents and visitors. These facilities
are maintained to ensure accessibility and convenience during your trips
around the area.
Here’s a full list of public…
Planning decisions from the Forest of Dean Council
https://freebooter.uk/posts/planning-decisions-from-the-forest-of-dean-council/
Published: August 27, 2025 15:28
The Forest of Dean District Council has recently decided a number of
planning applications covering tree works, residential extensions, new
builds, and agricultural developments. Here’s a summary of the latest
approvals:
Tree Works
The Retreat, Chartist…
Monmouth Raft Race faces uncertain future as River Wye runs low
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth-raft-race-faces-uncertain-future-as-river-wye-runs-low/
Published: August 27, 2025 13:29
The 58th Monmouth Raft Race could be in jeopardy this year as the
drought-hit River Wye continues to struggle with extremely low water
levels. Organisers are monitoring the situation closely and plan to make
a final decision on Sunday 31 August.
Norman…
Monmouthshire set for biggest-ever Fairtrade Coffee Morning
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouthshire-set-for-biggest-ever-fairtrade-coffee-morning/
Published: August 27, 2025 13:19
Monmouthshire schools and community groups are being invited to take
part in the county’s largest-ever Fairtrade Coffee Morning during this
year’s Fairtrade Fortnight, running from 22 September to 5 October.
The initiative aims to raise awareness not just…
Tree felling and historic renovations given green light by council
https://freebooter.uk/posts/tree-felling-and-historic-renovations-given-green-light-by-council/
Published: August 27, 2025 13:12
Monmouthshire County Council has approved a wide range of planning
applications in recent weeks, covering tree maintenance, removals,
property renovations, and historic building repairs. The decisions
highlight the council’s ongoing efforts to balance…
Two arrested after drone incident at prison
https://freebooter.uk/posts/two-arrested-after-drone-incident-at-prison/
Published: August 27, 2025 12:21
Two men have been arrested after a drone was reported flying over HMP
Long Lartin in South Littleton, Worcestershire, on Monday night (18
August).
Police were called around 11.50pm after the drone dropped a package
of suspected contraband before flying…
Third arrest in Malvern murder probe
https://freebooter.uk/posts/third-arrest-in-malvern-murder-probe/
Published: August 27, 2025 12:18
West Mercia Police have made a third arrest in the investigation into
the death of Paul Hart in Malvern.
A 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and released on
bail while enquiries continue. An 18-year-old man and a 25-year-old man,
arrested…
Council urges residents to have their say on Forest Plan
https://freebooter.uk/posts/council-urges-residents-to-have-their-say-on-forest-plan/
Published: August 26, 2025 23:00
The Forest of Dean District Council has launched the next stage of
its Local Plan, inviting residents and businesses to
take part in a public consultation. The consultation runs from
31 July to 11 September 2025.
Following a Full Council meeting on…
Monmouth’s Vanessa Ruck maps out the ultimate one-day motorcycle ride through the Wye Valley
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth’s-vanessa-ruck-maps-out-the-ultimate-one-day-motorcycle-ride-through-the-wye-valley/
Published: August 26, 2025 23:00
Monmouth motorcyclist and social media personality Vanessa Ruck – widely known as The
Girl on a Bike – has released her guide to what she describes as the
“ultimate one-day motorcycle trip in the UK,” starting and finishing in
the Wye Valley.
Vanessa…
Ambitious plans for Five Acres laid out by council
https://freebooter.uk/posts/ambitious-plans-for-five-acres-laid-out-by-council/
Published: August 26, 2025 23:00
The Forest of Dean District Council has unveiled an ambitious new
vision for Five Acres in Berry Hill, creating a hub of
leisure, education, and community activities for residents across the
district. The project is designed to bring people together,…
Monmouth Planning Committee reviews key applications and boosts local safety and heritage protections
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouth-planning-committee-reviews-key-applications-and-boosts-local-safety-and-heritage-protections/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
The Monmouth Town Council Planning Committee met on Tuesday, 12th
August 2025, at 6.30 pm in the Roberts Room at Bridges. The meeting
covered several planning applications, updates on enforcement matters,
and ongoing projects affecting the town. Apologies…
Llancayo Travellers’ site approved after long dispute over flooding and drainage
https://freebooter.uk/posts/llancayo-travellers’-site-approved-after-long-dispute-over-flooding-and-drainage/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
A long-running planning saga at Llancayo, near Usk, has ended with
approval for a Travellers’ site — almost a decade after the family first
moved onto the land without consent.
The planning meeting was made available on YouTube.
Monmouthshire County…
Monmouthshire Council refuses glamping proposal at Swallows Nest, Hardwick
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouthshire-council-refuses-glamping-proposal-at-swallows-nest,-hardwick/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
Monmouthshire County Council has refused a planning application to
convert paddock land at Swallows Nest, Ty’r Pwll, Parc Llettis Road,
Hardwick, Abergavenny, into a glamping site. The decision follows a
Planning Committee meeting on 1 July 2025, where…
Monmouthshire Council approves major speed limit changes across county
https://freebooter.uk/posts/monmouthshire-council-approves-major-speed-limit-changes-across-county/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
Monmouthshire County Council has approved a wide-ranging set of
Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) designed to improve road safety,
clarify existing speed limits, and ensure that local speed limits comply
with national regulations. The decisions were made…
Bungalow approved for rear of Park Close property after controversial debate
https://freebooter.uk/posts/bungalow-approved-for-rear-of-park-close-property-after-controversial-debate/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
A controversial plan to build a bungalow in the back garden of a Park
Close home has been given the green light by Monmouthshire County
Council, following months of debate and several amendments to the
scheme.
The planning meeting can be view on YouTube.…
Abergavenny restaurant sign dispute sparks heritage row
https://freebooter.uk/posts/abergavenny-restaurant-sign-dispute-sparks-heritage-row-/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
A retrospective bid to keep two illuminated fascia signs at a popular
Abergavenny restaurant has divided opinion — with planning officers
recommending refusal but councillors voting to defer a final
decision.
The application, lodged by Mr Peter Woolley for…
Cheapest unleaded petrol prices in Monmouthshire and Forest of Dean
https://freebooter.uk/posts/cheapest-unleaded-petrol-prices-in-monmouthshire-and-forest-of-dean/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
Unleaded petrol prices in the Monmouthshire and Forest of Dean area
show a competitive range across various stations. Here are the 50
cheapest options in the area:
Station
Price (pence per litre)
Date
TOTALENERGIES ROSS ROAD
126.9
25/08/2025
…
Planning appeals dismissed for North Barn, Whitehouse Farm, Llanfair Kilgeddin
https://freebooter.uk/posts/planning-appeals-dismissed-for-north-barn,-whitehouse-farm,-llanfair-kilgeddin/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed two appeals relating to North
Barn at Whitehouse Farm, Llanvair Grange Road, Llanfair Kilgeddin,
Monmouthshire (NP7 9BB). The decisions were issued by JP Tudor BA
(Hons), Solicitor (non-practising), acting as an…
Planning appeal dismissed for 1 Pen Y Wern Cottage, Penperlleni
https://freebooter.uk/posts/planning-appeal-dismissed-for-1-pen-y-wern-cottage,-penperlleni/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed an appeal concerning 1 Pen Y
Wern Cottage, Pen Y Wern Road, Penperlleni, Goytre (NP4 0AB). The
decision was issued by Zoe Baxter BSc, MSc, MRTPI, acting as an
Inspector appointed by the Welsh Ministers.
The appeal…
Council approves 40mph speed limit on Staunton Road (from Monmouth to Coleford)
https://freebooter.uk/posts/council-approves-40mph-speed-limit-on-staunton-road-(from-monmouth-to-coleford)/
Published: August 25, 2025 23:00
Monmouthshire County Council has approved a new 40mph speed
limit on Staunton Road (A4136) following a detailed engineering
assessment and community consultation. The decision was part of the
Individual Cabinet Member Decision meeting held on Wednesday,…
Criminal damage and theft reported at Cinderford’s Miners Welfare Skate Park
https://freebooter.uk/posts/criminal-damage-and-theft-reported-at-cinderford’s-miners-welfare-skate-park/
Published: August 14, 2025 23:00
Cinderford Town Council has reported a rise in incidents of criminal
damage at the Miners Welfare Skate Park, with police now
investigating.
The North Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) confirmed they are
working with the council following several recent…
Lydney councillors back new mower and town centre funding, debate community assets and highlight anti-social behaviour concerns
https://freebooter.uk/posts/lydney-councillors-back-new-mower-and-town-centre-funding,-debate-community-assets-and-highlight-anti-social-behaviour-concerns/
Published: July 13, 2025 23:00
Full Council – Monday 14th July 2025, 7pm–9:10pm
Lydney Town Council met on Monday 14th July, with councillors
discussing highways, local developments, community assets, and plans for
town improvements.
Key decisions and updates
Highways and traffic
Cllr…
Cinderford councillors approve Christmas lights, discuss astroturf closure and hear foodbank update
https://freebooter.uk/posts/cinderford-councillors-approve-christmas-lights,-discuss-astroturf-closure-and-hear-foodbank-update-/
Published: July 7, 2025 23:00
Cinderford Town Council met on Tuesday 8 July 2025, covering a wide
range of community matters including estates projects, local services,
and future events.
The meeting, chaired by Cllr Graham Morgan, began with public
participation where councillors were…
Coleford councillors back new active travel plans, approve cemetery improvements and debate community awards
https://freebooter.uk/posts/coleford-councillors-back-new-active-travel-plans,-approve-cemetery-improvements-and-debate-community-awards/
Published: July 7, 2025 23:00
Full Council – Tuesday 8th July 2025, 7pm–9pm
Coleford Town Council met on Tuesday 8th July with Councillors
discussing a wide range of community matters, from staff appraisals and
Active Travel projects to memorial benches and local awards.
Key Decisions…
Berry Hill Primary celebrates "good" Ofsted report
https://freebooter.uk/posts/berry-hill-primary-celebrates-good-ofsted-report/
Published: July 2, 2025 23:00
Berry Hill Primary School in Coleford is celebrating after inspectors
rated the school “Good” in all areas following their
visit on 3rd and 4th June 2025.
The report marks a big step forward for the school, which was judged
as “Requires Improvement” at its…
Whitchurch CofE Primary rated "good" – early years provision "outstanding"
https://freebooter.uk/posts/whitchurch-cofe-primary-rated-good-–-early-years-provision-outstanding/
Published: March 25, 2025 00:00
Whitchurch CofE Primary School, near Ross-on-Wye, has been praised by
Ofsted inspectors following their visit on 25th and 26th March
2025.
The school, which had not been fully inspected since 2012, has been
judged “Good” in education, behaviour, personal…
Coalway Community Infant School making progress, says Ofsted
https://freebooter.uk/posts/coalway-community-infant-school-making-progress,-says-ofsted/
Published: March 19, 2025 00:00
Coalway Community Infant School has been praised for improvements in
teaching and behaviour, following a monitoring inspection on
19th March 2025.
The visit, led by His Majesty’s Inspector Nicky
McMahon, found that while the school still has work to do,…