This week in the Senedd, members debated the Welsh Government’s draft budget and, while I welcome the focus on prioritising public services, reversing the long-term impact of 14 years of austerity will take time. During the debate, I called for a funding floor for local authorities – especially for councils like Flintshire – and I asked what was being done to ensure the long-term sustainability of local services. Despite increased funding from the Welsh Government, Flintshire still sits at the lower end of the league table. Whether it’s revisiting the funding formula or exploring creative solutions, we must secure these vital services for the future and for the communities which rely on them. You can see my contribution to the debate on my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/HannahBlythynForDelyn.
Following on from the public transport forum I held in November, I recently had the chance to meet with the Cabinet Secretary alongside representatives from Holywell Town Council to discuss plans for a new station at Greenfield. This is a vital step towards improving transport links across North Wales, but transport isn’t just about rail – it’s about better buses, smarter road solutions and an integrated network that truly serves our communities. From bus franchising to improvements on the A55, we need solutions that are modern, efficient and futureproof.
The regional transport plan is currently out for consultation – this is a chance for Flintshire residents and organisations have their say. The consultation is being carried out by Ambition North Wales, the organisation that’s coordinating the North Wales Growth Deal, which has set out plans to enhance our transport network and support the region’s economic, social and environmental wellbeing and it wants to hear what residents think about the future of transport in North Wales. You can see the proposal and submit your feedback in the virtual consultation room at https://northwalesregionaltransportplan.virtual-engage.com – the consultation closes on April 14.
This week is the Trades Union Congress (TUC) / Wales TUC Cymru #heartunions week – an annual opportunity to spread the message about why trade unions are important, both in the workplace and in the community. I was elected a trade unionist and I will always be a trade unionist – the trade union movement shaped my values and gave me my voice. I spoke to Unite members last week about those values of social justice, fairness and equality which have driven me to support my union’s campaigns in the Senedd. Over the years the Welsh Government has stepped up and led the way in providing financial support – from the Educational Maintenance Allowance to the Emergency Assistance Fund and a range of other devolved support schemes – often thanks to the support and help from our trade union movement, so being part of a trade union really does make a difference.
It was announced last week that Holywell Town FC has secured the funding to install smart LED lighting, air source heat pumps, solar panels and battery storage – all controlled by a cutting-edge smart building system. This game-changing upgrade will slash the club’s energy costs by 80%, meaning more money can be reinvested into grassroots sports, with greater opportunities for young people to have fun with friends! As a proud supporter of grassroots football, promoting schemes such as Be Football, the FAW Pawb Fund and local clubs like Holywell, I’m pleased to see this step forward for sustainability, thanks to support from the Welsh Government through Ynni Cymru. I’m looking forward to getting back to Holywell Town FC shortly to find out more about the difference the funding will make.
Finally, here in Flintshire we have many excellent food and drink businesses which provide some real quality produce – the food and drink sector in Wales really is going from strength to strength and our corner of North East Wales is punching above its weight. The Wales Food & Drink Awards 2025, which recognise and honour the outstanding contributions and achievements within the Welsh food and drink industry, is on the lookout for nominations at the moment, so if you run a food and drink business in our area it’s worth heading to https://foodanddrinkawards.wales/award/2025-awards and fill in the form by February 21st. Good luck!
As always, if you would like advice and/or support, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on any of the following contact details – 52 High Street, Mold, Flintshire, on 01352 753464 or by email hannah.blythyn@senedd.wales. You can also keep up to date via my Facebook page – www.facebook.com/HannahBlythynForDelyn. Constituents are, of course, welcome to contact my office to arrange an appointment to see me, you don’t need to wait for an advice surgery.