otball pitch has also been improved.

This work came after consultation with local residents, particularly young people, identified it as a priority.

The new skatepark has been designed by Wheelscape, who will be organising a skateboarding exhibition event as part of tomorrow’s activities.

This multi- million pound investment in the listed building has seen it extensively redeveloped, both internally and outside with many of the original features restored.

Transformed in partnership with Next Colour, it boasts sweeping views across Whitmore Bay and newly landscaped areas at its front.

Loungers, who will be operating the venue, is a hospitality chain that already has branches throughout South Wales and the South-East of England – including Ocho Lounge in Penarth.

The restaurant forms part of ongoing investment in Barry Island, aimed at enhancing its appeal as a year-round destination for residents and visitors alike.

The Island is likely to be extremely busy this weekend, which should be good news for Morio Lounge and other local businesses.

But that many people means the location has to be carefully managed by our Resort Team to keep everyone safe and things running smoothly.

Among the staff involved in this work are our Enforcement officers, who are out and about in the blazing sun, addressing congestion, anti-social behaviour and other issues as they arise, often with very little thanks.

Throughout the Vale, they also play a vital role in maintaining safe, clean, and well-managed communities by tackling environmental offences such as fly-tipping, littering and dog fouling.

This is carried out through foot and camera car patrols, investigation and evidence gathering work, educating businesses and residents on their legal responsibilities and taking formal action where necessary.

Enforcement Officers are responsible for really important work that improves the appearance of local communities, protects public health and helps create a safer Vale.

They encourage responsible behaviour, reduce the costs associated with clean-up and enforcement activities, and enhance civic pride.

Their visible presence provides reassurance to the public and demonstrates the Council’s commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and attractive county in which to live, work, and visit.

I know there have been a couple of unpleasant incidents Enforcement Officers have had to endure recently so I wanted to share my appreciation, and that of the Strategic Leadership Team (SLT), for all they do.

Thank you all very much.

Lastly, it was great to see our Restore the Thaw project recognised as an example of best practice in public sector land management.

That ongoing project aims to deliver biodiversity improvements in the River Thaw catchment area to create a more resilient, and nature rich environment for generations to come.

Recently, it was featured by the Future Generations for Wales Commissioner as an example of how public sector land management can accelerate climate and nature action.

Restore the Thaw shows what can be achieved when local investment is combined with long-term ambition and st  rong partnerships.

Using funding from our Project Zero programme, alongside support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Waterloo Foundation and Woodland Trust, the scheme has delivered large-scale nature recovery.

 It has involved:

• Working with 79 landowners across the catchment

• Planting more than 30,000 trees

• Creating and restoring habitats through ponds, hedgerows, orchards and meadows

• Engaging 26 primary schools and more than 150 volunteers

• Reintroducing water voles to the River Thaw after a 20-year absence, with populations now thriving

• Preparing for the introduction of beavers at Amelia Trust Farm.

Well done to all involved. It’s great to see your work recognised in this way.

For those not in work over the weekend, have a relaxing and restful couple of days off.

Thank you very much for all your work this week.

Enjoy the sun,

Marcus.