Llanasa Life Spring 2026 LLANASA CONSERVATION SOCIETY NEWSLETTER Welcome to the Spring edition Spring is all about getting back to nature, and this edition celebrates that. We feature the Pilgrims Way, recently recognised by National Geographic as a top wellness experience, along with details of National Lottery free March days out, including some fantastic locations run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. We also explore the proposal for the Glyndŵr National Park and what it could mean for our area. There’s much-needed positive news from the heart of the village too. Jimmy has made significant progress with the Red Lion, an encouraging step forward, and the Village Hall proudly shares its ‘Green Initiave’. Less positive, following a meeting with Councillor Gina Maddison and Nigel Seaburg of Flintshire County Council, this issue also addresses the current state of the village roads and the concerning new criteria for assessing and repairing defects. Meanwhile, the cemetery is looking absolutely wonderful. Brambles have been cleared, the grass cut, and trees and bushes cut back and the ground is now carpeted in snowdrops. The transformation has been remarkable. We must give special mention to Maggs Barr, much missed, who was the driving force behind this work, coordinating with Flintshire Probation Services to make it happen. Thanks to these efforts, you can now walk around the cemetery, reflect, and take in the rich history resting there. A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved for this incredible transformation — it’s truly well worth a visit this Spring. Over the next few months, there are plenty of village events to get involved in, including the Village Hall Curry Night on 21st March, the Spring Village Tidy-Up on 28th March, and two Car Boot Sales in May. Thank you to everyone who supports these initiatives — have a fantastic Spring! Sam Gardner llanasaconservation@gmail.com
Concerns about the worsening condition of roads in and around Llanasa continue to be a priority for local residents. In response, Wayne Taylor and Sam Gardner recently met with Nigel Seaburg from Streetscene and Councillor Gina Maddison, to discuss current maintenance standards, funding pressures, and potential improvements. Nigel explained that most local roads are inspected on a monthly basis. At present, potholes deeper than 40mm are classed as defects and should be repaired within f ive working days. However, it was revealed that this policy is expected to change soon, increasing the defect threshold to 50mm and extending repair times to 15 working days. This proposed revision is disappointing, as it will lead to slower responses and further deterioration of road conditions. Nigel acknowledged that financial constraints and limited resources are a significant barrier to effective road maintenance. Budgets available for repairs are currently insufficient to address the volume and severity of defects, leading to an overreliance on short-term patching rather than long-lasting resurfacing solutions. He further admitted that many pothole repairs fail to endure, with patched sections often breaking down again within a short period due to traffic wear and weather. As a more sustainable solution to patching up, Nigel has recommended that the stretch of road from the corner at Bowen Buildings to the corner by the Memorial Garden be considered for full resurfacing. This recommendation, which we understand was made in previous years, will be reviewed again by senior management as part of planning for the next financial year starting in April 2026. While this may seem positive, there is unfortunately no guarantee that funding will be available to carry out the work anytime soon. Despite sustained efforts over the past three years campaigning to improve road conditions in Llanasa, uncertainty remains around future budgets and the council’s ability to deliver the long-term improvements required. Both Sam and Wayne expressed concern that without increased investment, local roads will continue to deteriorate, posing safety risks to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, as well as increasing vehicle repair costs for residents. The council also need to consider futureproofing the infrastructure to cater for the increased road usage expected in the area. The reopening of the Red Lion later this year is likely to bring a rise in visitor traffic, delivery vehicles, and local travel, placing additional strain on already fragile road surfaces. Furthermore, the proposed Glyndŵr National Park could significantly boost tourism and regional traffic if approved, increasing demand on local roads that are already struggling to cope. Without proactive investment, the combination of growing traffic and poor road conditions could accelerate deterioration and heighten safety concerns. In response, the Llanasa Conservation Society will be writing to the Community Council, requesting that they continue to push for this issue to be prioritised and addressed at higher levels. LCS hopes that sustained pressure, combined with community support, will strengthen the case for improved road maintenance and longer-term solutions. Residents are encouraged to report potholes through official council channels to help ensure problem areas are recorded and monitored. To log potholes (and any other Flintshire road or pavement defects) visit REPORT A FLINTSHIRE ROAD DEFECT Further updates will be shared as progress is made.
Positive progress continues at The Red Lion. The discharge of conditions application has now been approved by Flintshire County Council’s Conservation Officer. With the scope of works agreed, the project architect, Craig Jones of arc37 in Dyserth, is preparing the detailed technical drawings required for Building Regulations approval and to enable contractors to commence work. This phase also involves structural engineers and other specialist consultants to ensure that all works are carried out correctly and sympathetically, in keeping with the building’s heritage. Craig anticipates that the drawings will be finalised within the next two weeks. While there is still much to be done, steady progress is being made towards reopening. The Red Lion’s website is now live at redlionllanasa.com. Although opening is still some months away, establishing an online presence at an early stage is important so that search engines can begin recognising and indexing the site. Visitors are encouraged to take a look and explore features such as the blogs on the Pilgrim’s Trail and the short history of Llanasa. Supporters can also sign up to join the mailing list to receive updates as the project moves forward. Facebook, Instagram and TikTok pages will be launching in the coming weeks to share news and behind-the-scenes developments. Suggestions and ideas are warmly welcomed. As with any new venture, building momentum and community enthusiasm will be key to a successful opening. The support of the village is greatly appreciated, and there is much anticipation about welcoming everyone through the doors in due course. Llanasa Walking group meet, usually at a pub, the second Saturday of each month for a 5-6 mile walk.The next walk on 14th March will start at The Druid Inn Llanferres CH7 5SN at 10.0am. There are around 15 very sociable walkers on each walk recently pictured here at The Piccadilly, Caerwys. All are welcome, to join the Group email jeff morgan898@gmail.com for further info.
You may not have noticed – in fact, in some ways, they hope you haven’t – but your Village Hall has had several significant improvements over the last couple of months, which have contributed to its ‘Green Initiative Project’ aimed at making the Hall more energy efficient and a more comfortable place to meet. Due to rising fossil fuel costs and the need to improve the Hall’s green credentials, the focus has been on enhancing sustainability and endeavouring to lower fuel expenses. With this in mind, the ‘Green Initiative’ project was launched last year. With Wayne Taylor agreeing to lead the project, along with the Hall’s management team, he has been instrumental in oiling the wheels to move things forward. In December, the old, inefficient, and unreliable boiler was replaced with a new one that can be controlled remotely via the 'Hive' application. This upgrade also included replacing the outdated manifold with a modern distribution valve for the underfloor heating. Additionally, much-needed repairs were carried out on the solar-powered hot water system. More recently, on 4th February, secondary glazing was installed on the four large windows in the main hall and the single window in the meeting room. As the Village Hall is a Grade II Listed Building, the Council required the new glazing panels to match the existing window frames to maintain the building's character. This goal is considered to have been successfully achieved. To finance this major project, some of the Hall's own funds, raised at various charity events supported by local residents, were utilised. However, these much-needed improvements would not have been possible without the generous grants from the Gwynt y Mor Community Fund and the National Lottery, to whom the Hall extends its heartfelt gratitude.
Recognition The North Wales Pilgrim’s Way (Taith Pererin Gogledd Cymru), frequently referred to as the “Welsh Camino,” has been recognized on the global stage as one of the top wellness experiences in the world for 2026 by National Geographic magazine. Selected by a global community of explorers, photographers, and editors, the 136-mile route was celebrated for offering travellers a rare opportunity to “slow down” and engage in “contemplative motion” rather than a traditional spa experience. The ancient route weaves across North Wales, connecting sacred sites from Basingwerk Abbey near St Winefried’s Well in Holywell to Bardsey Island, known historically as “the island of 20,000 saints”. According to National Geographic, the trail offers a “deep, grounding calm” and a “radical” return to presence in an age of constant stimulation. Key factors in the route’s selection for 2026 include: Natural Beauty: The route meanders alongside rivers, through beech woods and sheep-dotted hillsides, across rugged moorland and along coastal paths, offering a rhythm where “time seems to stretch and slow” Infrastructure Updates: Sections of the trail have been updated with clearer way markers Community Revival: Village B&Bs are welcoming walkers once again, and historic churches and chapels along the route have opened to receive them. The Diocese of St Asaph has recently appointed a Pilgrimage Development Lead to explore the potential for growth in the number of people walking the 136-mile route. Jane Finn is working with local communities to improve the pilgrim experience, identify suitable accommodation, and promote Welsh language, culture and heritage. Pilgrims start at Basingwerk Abbey, collecting their all-important pilgrim passport, and follow in the footsteps of St Winefride from the miraculous healing waters of St Winefride’s Well near Holywell to Gwytherin, where Winefride became Abbess of a convent, and died and was buried. Jane said: “The first five days of the pilgrimage follow a gentle and inspiring route from church to church, enabling pilgrims to collect stamps for their pilgrimage passports, and allowing their bodies to acclimatise to the rhythms of daily walking. As the route continues, pilgrims leave behind the industrial heritage of North Wales and venture through open countryside, moorland and into the uplands of North Wales taking in the coastal views that have accompanied pilgrims over the centuries. In many ways the 136-mile route, in its entirety, charts the evolution of humanity in North Wales since those Celtic saints established their communities in the 6th and 7th-century.”
Up - 28th March Llanasa Car Boot Sales 2026 We’re delighted to announce that Llanasa Car Boot Sales will be returning in 2026 on the following Bank Holiday Mondays: 4 May 2026 25 May 2026 31 August 2026 Car Boot Sales play a vital role in raising essential funds to support the Church, Village Hall, and Llanasa Conservation Society. The money raised helps maintain community spaces, fund local projects, and keep the village looking welcoming, cared for, and full of life. To keep these events running smoothly, we rely on the generosity and goodwill of volunteers. We are always grateful for help in a variety of ways, including assisting on the field, helping set up and pack down, baking cakes and treats, serving in the café. We’re calling on all villagers again to roll up their sleeves and join us for the Spring Village Tidy-Up on Saturday 28th March, from 10am to noon. Whether you can spare half an hour or the full two hours, every pair of hands makes a difference. Tasks will include light weeding, cutting back, tidying verges, and general sprucing up around key areas of the village. No specialist skills needed—just a willingness to pitch in! Remember, thanks to the generous grant from Gwynt-Y-Mor we are well equipped with all the necessary tools and equipment so you just need to bring yourself. To thank all volunteers for their time and effort, we’ll be serving bacon and sausage baps at around 11am as a mid-morning treat (please get in touch beforehand if you’d like a vegetarian option). These tidy-up days really do make a visible impact—and they’re also a lovely way to connect with others in the village. We’d love to see both familiar and new faces there. Let’s work together to keep Llanasa looking lovely! Even a small amount of time makes a big difference, and volunteering is a lovely way to meet people and be part of something positive for the village. Thank you to everyone who supports these events — your time, energy, and kindness help keep Llanasa thriving. We look forward to seeing you at the Car Boot Sales in 2026 for fun, fundraising, and community spirit! The use of the field is kindly made possible each year by the generosity of the Gyrn Estate, whose continued support is greatly appreciated.
The proposal to create a Glyndŵr National Park across parts of North-East and Mid Wales continues to progress, and it has the potential to bring both significant opportunities and meaningful challenges for local communities. Opinions on the proposal are divided, with many people recognising potential benefits while others express understandable concerns about its impact. Llanasa falls inside the proposed National Park boundary which appears to follow the old AONB boundary. National Park status could offer stronger environmental protection, helping to safeguard landscapes, wildlife habitats, rivers, woodlands, and historic sites for future generations. Supporters believe the designation could strengthen long-term conservation efforts, improve coordination in land management, and support climate resilience through nature-based solutions. There is also the potential for increased funding, with grants available for conservation projects, sustainable farming initiatives, heritage restoration, outdoor recreation, and community regeneration. Economically, a new National Park could raise the region’s profile and attract more visitors, benefiting local businesses. New jobs could be created in conservation, ranger services, tourism, and environmental education. Proponents also highlight potential cultural and educational benefits, including greater promotion of Welsh heritage and language, expanded outdoor learning opportunities, and stronger community pride. However, the proposal has also raised serious concerns among some residents, councils, and rural organisations. One key issue is the possible loss of local planning control, with decisions potentially moving from local authorities to a National Park Authority. This could lead to stricter planning rules and reduced flexibility for housing, farm buildings, or business development. There are also worries about housing affordability, as National Park designation can increase demand for second homes and holiday lets, pushing property prices beyond the reach of local people. Farmers and land managers have expressed concerns about additional regulation, limits on land use, and the impact on rural livelihoods, particularly if environmental requirements restrict traditional farming practices. While tourism could bring economic benefits, it may also place extra strain on infrastructure, including narrow rural roads (already plagued by potholes), parking, waste services, footpaths, and public facilities. Some residents fear that increased visitor numbers could disrupt the character of quiet rural communities if growth is not carefully managed. Questions also remain around long-term funding, governance arrangements, and whether promised investment will be sufficient to support both environmental goals and local needs. Natural Resources Wales are now due to submit consultation feedback and evidence to the Welsh Government. Later in 2026, Welsh Ministers are expected to decide whether to approve, amend, delay, or reject the proposal. If objections remain substantial, a public inquiry may take place. The proposed Glyndŵr National Park could bring lasting environmental protection and new opportunities, but it also raises important issues around affordability, local control, livelihoods, and infrastructure. How it is funded, governed, and shaped by community voices will be critical in determining whether it benefits local people.
The year 2025 concluded with the group’s annual Christmas celebrations. Members enjoyed delicious food, a spirited rendition of the WI version of The Twelve Days of Christmas, and a variety of games. Unfortunately, the evening was cut short due to a power cut when the lights went out. Despite this, everyone agreed it had been a thoroughly enjoyable evening for as long as it lasted. The February meeting featured a talk from Llanasa’s own Liz Williams, who spoke about her remarkable achievement of cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats. Travelling mainly alone and unsupported, Liz covered approximately 1,200 miles over 23 days, using byways and country roads. Members were captivated by her story and found her truly inspirational. Liz you are amazing! The January 2026 meeting began with a quiz featuring general knowledge questions, including a round based on monthly events from 2025. It was surprising how quickly some major news stories had been forgotten. There were also picture and dingbat rounds, and the competition proved close, with two teams battling (not literally!) for first place before a tie-breaker decided the winners. Chip butties were served for supper, providing welcome comfort on a dark and miserable January evening. Later in January, members had the opportunity to try Modern Calligraphy at a workshop held at Doris’s Bunker, NCAR, Trelogan. By the end of the session, plenty of ink had been used — though not all of it necessarily for writing! With continued practice, there should be some beautifully written celebration cards produced this year. A visit to the Scala Cinema in Prestatyn followed, where members watched the highly praised film Hamnet, starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal. Hankies were needed. Looking ahead to March, Michelle Shaw from Flintshire County Council’s Recycling Department will give a talk explaining what happens to the recycling that residents carefully separate into coloured bags each week, complementing what was learned about black bin waste at Parc Adfer. This will be an open meeting, with the general public warmly invited to attend. Admission is free, with only a £1 contribution towards refreshments. Llanasa Women’s Institute meet on the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm until 9pm in the village hall. They also organise many additional activities outside official meeting days. New members and guests (with the first three meetings free) are warmly welcomed.For more information please contact llanasawi@outlook.com They can also be found on Facebook at Llanasa W.I.
This March, the RSPB is delighted to welcome visitors to its National Lottery Open Days, offering a wonderful opportunity to explore nature, enjoy the outdoors, and learn more about local wildlife. These special open days provide free or reduced-price entry to participating RSPB reserves, thanks to support from National Lottery players. Whether you’re a keen birdwatcher, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful day out with family and friends, the open days offer something for everyone. It’s a great chance to discover beautiful landscapes, spot seasonal wildlife, and find out more about the conservation work that helps protect our natural environment. Conwy Nature Reserve Conwy Nature Reserve is proof that wonderful things can happen when we work with nature in mind. What was once waste material, dug out when the A55 road tunnel was built, has been transformed into a haven for wetland wildlife and a brilliant place for family adventures. Two stunning freshwater lagoons provide a refuge for hundreds of wading birds and there are a selection of nature trails to choose from. Little ones will enjoy the wild play area. One National Lottery ticket entitles the holder, plus up to one additional adult and three accompanying children, to free entry 9.30am5pm , Saturday 7th March to Sunday 15th March 2026 inclusive. RSPB South Stack Join a guided walk with breathtaking views, an array of wildlife and stories about the people that have lived, worked, and cared for this special place over thousands of years. From the acrobatic Choughs above to the archaeological remains beneath our feet, there’s so much to discover at South Stack. Dramatically located within Anglesey’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and with the Anglesey Coastal Path passing through its landscape, the reserve is a must see. Sorry no dogs other than assistance dogs. Please dress appropriately for the weather and conditions, including sturdy footwear. One National Lottery ticket/scratchcard entitles the holder and up to 3 accompanying children to a free guided walk on Sunday 8th March or Saturday 14th March 2026 10.30am – 12.00pm. Places are subject to availability and you must book a place in advance for each person, including each accompanying child via https://events.rspb.org.uk/southstackcliffs RSPB Ynys-hir With the mountains of southern Eryri to the north and the Cambrian mountains to the south, once you enter the Ynys-hir reserve, you’ll be surrounded by beauty. Full details of all National Lottery Open Days, 7-14 March, including National Trust properties such as Penrhyn Castle, Plas Newydd House & Gardens, Bodnant Gardens and Chirk Castle & Gardens can be found by clicking this link www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/open-week Ynys-hir treats you to a variety of habitats: Welsh Oak woodland, estuary saltmarsh, lowland wet grasslands, freshwater pools, reedbeds and peat bog. The sheer variety here means there’s a whole host of wildlife to spot. Pied Flycatchers, warblers, Small Red Damselflies, Brimstone butterflies, Otters, Common Lizards, Slow Worms, and Grass Snakes all call this patch home. One National Lottery ticket/scratchcard entitles the holder, plus up to one additional adult and three accompanying children to free entry on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March 2026.
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