Alec Doyle

Reform Wales MS Nigel Williams has called for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to be taken over by a health board from outside Wales after nine years in special measures. Welsh health minister Mabon ap Gwynfor rejected the proposal, arguing that an external board would operate under different laws and regulations, while saying the Welsh Government will take a more direct role through an intensive recovery team and an expert-led review. Reform Wales representative Adrian Mason urged the government to bring in expertise from across the UK, publish the expert panel’s remit, set monthly targets and specify consequences for missed goals. Donna Ockenden is being considered for the panel, although her availability is uncertain.

Reform Wales MS Nigel Williams has called for a health board from outside Wales to take over Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, which has remained in special measures for nine years amid concerns over care quality, patient safety, leadership and governance. Welsh health minister Mabon ap Gwynfor rejected the proposal, citing Wales’s devolved legislation and accountability to the Senedd, while promising a more hands-on recovery effort and an expert-led well-led review. Reform’s Adrian Mason urged the government to bring in expertise from across the UK, publish the expert panel’s terms of reference and set monthly performance targets. Donna Ockenden is being considered for the panel, although her availability is uncertain.

Residents in Halkyn are seeking stronger regulation of large holiday rentals marketed as party houses, citing noise and disruption from high‑occupancy properties. A petition led by councillors Fran Lister and Simon Jones calls for enhanced licensing powers allowing councils to set conditions on noise, outdoor entertainment and management responsibilities. The campaign, supported by more than 1,500 signatures, argues that some large renovated properties operate more like private venues and negatively affect rural communities. The Welsh government will consider the petition once reviewed by the Senedd Petitions Committee.

A £55m proposal to merge four Catholic schools in Flintshire into a single three‑to‑18 super‑school will proceed to consultation after councillors narrowly voted against halting the process. Critics argued the consultation should pause until the council explained shortcomings in the previous process, which was abandoned following a legal challenge. Supporters said restarting demonstrated accountability and allowed residents a renewed chance to contribute. Concerns were raised over public confidence, stress on families and staff, and the possibility of future legal challenges, while others stressed the need for affected communities to have clarity and input now.