Three Towns Forum

The Local => Local News & Discussion => Topic started by: Michael on April 05, 2011, 04:58:00 pm

Title: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Michael on April 05, 2011, 04:58:00 pm
I just managed to catch a bit of an announcement on Tudno FM that a "Friends of the Happy Valley" is about to be formed, modelled on the friends of the West Shore. Unfortunately I was driving so I couldnt get the phone number of where or when they are having their opening meeting. I imagine Tudno FM would be able to give anyone the phone number.  Mike
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Yorkie on April 05, 2011, 05:39:01 pm
I believe that Alan Guinn, ex Town Councillor and now Chair of the Llandudno CIVIC Council started  off something similar a couple of years ago.  Never heard of it doing anything so maybe this is a ressurection of that outfit.     ££$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on May 10, 2011, 05:00:16 pm
I'm told that Malcolm Bullock is organising the new Group and I have emailed him to see if he would like to give us all some more info about it.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on May 10, 2011, 05:05:39 pm
Speaking of Happy Valley, I noticed the other day that all the glass had been removed from the Victorian lantern outside the Cafe. The very same lantern (dating back to the 1890s when the Park was originally opened) that was restored at great expense* a few years ago is now completely open to the elements again and already starting to rust badly. When will CCBC learn that spending a few pounds now will save a lot more over time? They may claim there is no money available - yet money was found to install a totally unnecessary flagpole last year that has only recently had a flag attached - proclaiming an Award for 2009/10!

* - http://www.sugglighting.co.uk/media/documents/pdf/special_projects/llandudno.pdf (http://www.sugglighting.co.uk/media/documents/pdf/special_projects/llandudno.pdf)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Yorkie on May 10, 2011, 05:48:03 pm
Has  it been vandalised?  If that is the case it could be an ongoing expense unless polycarbonate was used instead of glass.   $walesflag$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on May 10, 2011, 05:52:48 pm
Has  it been vandalised?  If that is the case it could be an ongoing expense unless polycarbonate was used instead of glass.   $walesflag$
I don't think its been vandalised, although its had one pane of glass missing for ages. Polycarbonate, as you say, would probably be better.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Michael on May 10, 2011, 08:35:59 pm
I dont know what the word describes but I would'nt mind polycarbonating the vandals!!!
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on June 07, 2011, 02:07:49 pm
From Town Council website:

"The Friends of Happy Valley Group held their first meeting on Wednesday 4th May 2011.    Following on from the successes of the Friends of Queens Park and West Shore Groups, the group made up of mainly local residents, is looking to develop projects and attract funds to assist with maintenance and improvements to the gardens of the Happy Valley Area on the Great Orme.  Anyone can join a Friends Group and give as much or as little time as they want.  If you are interested in making new friends, helping promote the heritage of the area, and having a say in the management of a local green space, please contact the Town Clerk for more information on how to become involved."
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Yorkie on June 07, 2011, 02:42:02 pm
Friends Groups made up of volunteers from the Community will certainly get things moving and save Members of the Council getting off their backsides.   L0L
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on June 07, 2011, 09:41:29 pm
 :D i don;t remember seeing any off them get of their backsides before,except for tea. D)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Trojan on June 07, 2011, 11:29:41 pm
:D i don;t remember seeing any off them get of their backsides before,except for tea. D)

 L0L
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on June 25, 2011, 04:08:10 pm
 :o  Just been for a little walk up the happy valley and guess what,as expected NO WATER FEATURE working ,ok its no suprise but the next time the fothv meet can they point out to the CCBC representative that Colwyn Bays water feature has been restored so lets fix ours. :rage:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on June 25, 2011, 04:36:47 pm
I wonder if Blodyn ever got any reply to her email to the Friends of Happy Valley group?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Blodyn on June 27, 2011, 12:34:14 pm
Dave, I've been away but while I was away I received a reply to an email, though not directly from the Friends of Happy Valley.  This is part of the email from the Environment Officer at CCBC: 

"The Friends of Happy Valley is a very new but committed group that formed about a month ago.  Currently there are only 5 members and they have only had one meeting.
The aims of the group are to support the park in its annual bid for the Green Flag Award, liaise with the Parks Department to regularly update the aims and objectives of our existing management plan and reflect local need/want.  They will also try to increase community involvement by hosting events and fund improvements by carrying out grant applications.  They cannot however make any decisions regarding planting or grounds maintenance without approval from the Parks Department.

"We are more than happy to offer representatives from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and Butterfly Conservation a place on the Friends of Happy Valley as a forum to discuss your views and any improvements you feel Parks need to take into consideration when establishing aims for the coming year."

I had emailed the Organiser of the Friends of Happy Valley, suggesting that the gardens could be enhanced by inclusion of plants to attract bumblebees and butterflies and offering to give them a talk on behalf of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust (http://www.bumblebeeconservation.org.uk/).  I also contacted Butterfly Conservation (http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/) and their local representative was interested in being involved too.  She in turn contacted the people at CCBC who are concerned with conservation and biodiversity in this area, so that everyone could liaise to avoid introduction of potentially invasive plants. 

I'll keep you posted of any progress. 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on June 27, 2011, 12:46:41 pm
Thanks for the update, Blodyn, and do keep us informed.  :) I suspect the reason the FOHV group only has 5 members is because they havent promoted themselves in any way! The offer of a dedicated section on the Forum for them to promote themselves, keep us updated with news, and encourage new members is still there.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on July 02, 2011, 02:01:49 pm
 8) Any one been up the happy valley to see if the water feature is working,i asure you it will be on come bloom judging,they could;nt care less the rest of the time ???
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Yorkie on July 02, 2011, 04:45:19 pm
Llandudno Town Council don't care about anything all the time!  The most important thing on the Agenda at every Meeting is "What time is tea".   They have an inflated opinion of themselves and think they God's own gift to the Community.  They strut around as if they own the Town despite the fact that it is falling down around their ears, and they couldn't care less.  I'm with you Wrex!    ZXZ

What self-opinionated and self-important tosser would put a photograph of himself dressed in the Mayoral Robes and Regalia as his Facebook image?  Answers on a postcard please!    L0L   No prizes, and I expect every answer to be correct!     :D
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on July 02, 2011, 05:09:45 pm
8) Any one been up the happy valley to see if the water feature is working,i asure you it will be on come bloom judging,they could;nt care less the rest of the time ???
Funnily enough, it was switched on specially last year on the day the judges came.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on July 03, 2011, 04:47:54 pm
 :( Why are we so complacent when it comes to doing anything for this town,the water feature ever hardly works,bless CCBC they try.The town beach [ha] is never cleaned by the machine they bought years ago, so what, nobody knows what the hell is going on in the station,who cares and when it comes to parking  [electronic] signs ,well we need the money somewhere else. I read someone saying  don;t knock the town it lovely, yes and it will only remain and improve as long as some of us try to pressure the idiots in Bodlondeb too take note. :rage:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Yorkie on July 03, 2011, 05:59:55 pm
Not just Bodlondeb Wrex - What about all those so called "representatives of the community" ensconced at great expense in Llandudno Town Hall Council Chamber half a dozen times a month?   They are the ones who should be shouting for us, long, strong and hard.   But when half of them are also on the County Council it is little wonder at their attitude and desire to do nothing to rock the boat.   The whole lot need a bloody great firework up their backside.    WWW

They are very good at doing all the things that are of benefit to themselves, such as the big trough at the table on Civic Sunday, and the trips to Wormhout under the guise of it being our twin.  Has anyone on this Forum ever been on one of the Council Trips to Wormhout?    I certainly haven't.  I do know that some Councillors have been on more than one occasion and I do think that Brian Bertolla has probably been every year since it started.  Maybe he will read this and tell us exactly how many times he has been!  Or is that maybe one of his Masonic (yes he is) secrets?

It is about time they were exposed for what they are and replaced by some people with guts and determination to do something about our Community.   $angry$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on July 05, 2011, 09:39:40 pm
 :D Yorkie you know i have been a few times and i must admit it is a brilliant experience,no matter how crap Bertie is with the xmas lights and xmas parade i will give him credit on Wormhout,as a local it gives me great pride to see my town commemerated near Dunkirk and to think that Llandudno soldiers helped hold up the SS in Wormhout then pay the price with their lives being massacured in the barn.The whole experience i must say is a very pleasant experience and the local people a delight. ZXZ
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on July 09, 2011, 03:48:41 pm
 :( Just had a nice stroll along the West Shore and it was;nt too bad ,then along haulfre gardens, looking very bare of flowers and carried on to the happy Valley where of course there is still no water feature and finally along the prom were the flower beds have not been weeded,shame but looks like Llandudno has taken a big hit in the cuts. :-[
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on July 23, 2011, 09:03:56 am
 :-*  Did Cll Boyle and Cll J Finch have the water feature on for the bloom judges. :laugh:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on July 23, 2011, 09:19:18 am
:-*  Did Cll Boyle and Cll J Finch have the water feature on for the bloom judges. :laugh:
No doubt it was gushing away for the judge's visit...and it will have been switched off again now.  $angry$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Yorkie on July 23, 2011, 08:11:18 pm
:-*  Did Cll Boyle and Cll J Finch have the water feature on for the bloom judges. :laugh:

I do understand they were both crying profusely!   L0L   L0L
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on July 26, 2011, 09:52:21 am
I was with a Friend of the Forum the other day when he asked a Town Councillor about the water feature in Happy Valley and why it wasn't working. We were told there were two reasons it doesn't work. First reason was that there are newts in the ponds...personally, I thought they might have appreciated a bit of running water but I could be wrong. The second reason...well, we never found that out, as he had to rush off.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Yorkie on July 26, 2011, 09:59:59 am
Ah!  Yet another Town or County Councillor flushed with success!    _))*
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Trojan on July 26, 2011, 10:12:40 am
Looks like 'ass scratching baboons' are not only County Councillors, but town Councillors as well.  8)

*Note* A*** is still automatically deleting.  :D
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on August 19, 2011, 09:19:59 am
Anyone heard any more from the Friends of Happy Valley?

I saw this story about the park in Llanrwst:

A COMMUNITY action group in Llanrwst is hoping to redevelop a local park and save its public toilets.

Made up of local business members and residents, the newly formed Llanrwst Community Action Group hopes to create an eye-catching and exciting focal point at Gwydir Park for the community and visitors.

They have approached Conwy County Council to take over the running of the Riverside Cafe, known locally as the cafe on stilts, and turn it into a tourism hub with public toilets, a smoothie bar with sun terrace and visitor information centre.
“We hope to expand the cabin and include a new public toilet using locally sourced, sustainable materials and expertise,” said member Shirley Longley.

“We hope to promote this beautiful stretch of river, market the Llanrwst brand and increase footfall to the park, town and surrounding villages improving the local economy dramatically.
“These are just ideas at the moment, nothing is written in stone, they are just suggestions and we want to hear more from the community as this project is by the community and for the community.
“We hope people will visit our stand at the Llanrwst Show this Saturday to give feedback, or drop off their ideas at either the health shop, bike shop, the New Inn or Asha Balti house.”

Shop owner Cariad Loughlin said the group is trying to get an asset transfer for the cafe.
“We’d then be able to extend and renovate it as a ‘tourist hub’ to provide new public toilets and showers, tourist information, light refreshments, a terrace with picnic tables as well as tables on the grass, lockable bike stands and a bike wash, public information signs and the sale of tourist items like local produce, art, and items from the shops in town hopefully directing people into the town itself. “We also hope to redevelop the play facilities.”

A spokesperson for Conwy County Council said: “The community group has discussed its outline project to develop Gwydir Park with officers.

“We can confirm the cafe’s current tenant has given notice. We will not be seeking a new tenant over the winter and will not be commissioning extensive maintenance work until the future of the cafe has been established.
“Any formal proposals submitted by a properly constituted group will be given full consideration.”

The Llanrwst Rural  Show takes place this  Saturday, August 20 at  Berth Ddu Fields, Betws  Road, Llanrwst.

http://www.northwalesweeklynews.co.uk/conwy-county-news/local-conwy-news/2011/08/18/llanrwst-action-group-hopes-to-redevelop-park-and-save-toilets-55243-29258586/ (http://www.northwalesweeklynews.co.uk/conwy-county-news/local-conwy-news/2011/08/18/llanrwst-action-group-hopes-to-redevelop-park-and-save-toilets-55243-29258586/)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: dwsi on August 19, 2011, 06:26:34 pm
The problem with that cafe is that it gets constantly vandalised by the local kids
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Blodyn on September 14, 2011, 10:29:37 am
Anyone heard any more from the Friends of Happy Valley?

NO!!

Yesterday evening the lady from Butterfly Conservation  (http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/)and I gave a joint presentation on gardening for butterflies and bumblebees (see reply # 12 on page 1 of this thread).  The event was organised by the Environment Officer at CCBC, who had invited Friends of the various parks in the county.  Some very enthusiastic Friends of Parks in Abergele and Belgrano attended but nobody from Llandudno.  The Friends of West Shore said that they might attend, but didn't, and there didn't seem to have been any response from the Friends of Happy Valley. 

When I originally emailed the organiser of the Friends of Happy Valley, I repeated DaveR's offer of coverage on the Forum and provided the address but I have heard absolutely nothing, not even an acknowledgement of my email.   :(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on September 14, 2011, 10:50:18 am
What a shame!  :(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Ian on September 14, 2011, 12:52:19 pm
Quote
Yesterday evening the lady from Butterfly Conservation and I gave a joint presentation on gardening for butterflies and bumblebees

How do they cope with spades and garden forks?   ???
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Blodyn on September 14, 2011, 01:19:30 pm
It's amazing what they can do!   ;)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on September 15, 2011, 05:34:27 pm
I saw this in the Town Council Minutes. A lack of volunteers is hardly surprising!

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Trojan on September 16, 2011, 11:31:25 am
Yesterday evening the lady from Butterfly Conservation  (http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/)and I gave a joint presentation on gardening for butterflies and bumblebees.

Did the butterflies and bumblebees enjoy the presentation?  :laugh:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Blodyn on September 16, 2011, 05:32:42 pm
Yes, Trojan, they were most impressed!  ;D
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on January 08, 2012, 07:33:41 pm
Please, please, please try and get the water feature working for Easter and try and keep it going.Ok i know all the excuses the CCBC garden dept have given over the years including breeding newts and waiting for parts for the pump.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on March 02, 2012, 09:12:19 am
Had a walk through the Valley yesterday,the footings are in for the bandstand.Walked up to the water feature,it does not look as if it has been touched which is a shame as this is the only water feature in Llandudno (ithink).Iwonder why the Liverpool architect never included any when he designed the town,anyway i do hope that FOTHV and CCBC do try to overcome the vandals,newts,etc.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on April 07, 2012, 05:48:22 pm
Please, please, please try and get the water feature working for Easter and try and keep it going.Ok i know all the excuses the CCBC garden dept have given over the years including breeding newts and waiting for parts for the pump.
Good news, Wrex! Water feature is operational for Easter:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on April 07, 2012, 05:54:09 pm
up in the morning tyo ave a look
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Nemesis on April 08, 2012, 10:49:15 am
Please, please, please try and get the water feature working for Easter and try and keep it going.Ok i know all the excuses the CCBC garden dept have given over the years including breeding newts and waiting for parts for the pump.
Good news, Wrex! Water feature is operational for Easter:

What time was this Dave? It was silent when I passed at 11ish yesterday.(Sat)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on April 08, 2012, 02:04:17 pm
Must have been in the afternoon, maybe about 3 ish? I was thinking it hadn't been switched on for long as the bottom pond wasn't very full.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on April 08, 2012, 02:43:39 pm
Still working but no waterfall,but hey one thing at a time.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: Blodyn on July 31, 2012, 10:40:38 pm
Friends of Happy Valley

I'm delighted to tell you that the Friends of Happy Valley are now properly under way.  There were about a dozen committed and enthusiastic people at a meeting yesterday evening and there are now plans for some practical projects to start improving the Valley.  As I won't have much time to take part in these myself, I have offered to keep the Forum informed of the Friends' activities and to report back comments and suggestions from the Forum. 

Monday 13 August - Working party
Meet at Headlands Hotel at 10.30 am
Bring gloves and cutters, etc
Aim: to start clearing the area between the Camera Obscura and the Colonnade.

Monday 3 September - Working party
Details as above, to continue this work

Anyone is welcome to come and join in.  With some effort and support Happy Valley can once again become a place to be proud of. 

What is important to you about Happy Valley and what would you like to see there?

 $walesflag$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on July 31, 2012, 10:51:21 pm
Excellent, Blodyn!  $good$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: wrex on August 01, 2012, 07:30:40 am
Good news,i of course have always gone on about LLandudno;s only water feature,the waterfall needs to be fixed there is something about a water feature,im not sure how many years it is since the whole feature was working,maybe a main sponsor could cover the cost of maintance.The main problem at the moment is getting the grass cut regular,as at the moment CCBC ;sparks dept cannot do the job,i think they have had massive cuts as the whole of Conwy has been a mess this year.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley
Post by: DaveR on August 01, 2012, 08:31:41 am
Some feedback re suggestions for Happy Valley improvements from me would be:

1) Water feature - Can it be brought back into proper working order, ie. with the top cascade working? Perhaps an alternative means of powering the pump, maybe solar panels on roof of gardeners hut?

2) LLANDUDNO flowerbed - can the concrete be removed and summer bedding plants be reinstated?

3) Summer bedding - in recent years, quite a few of the flower beds that formerly contained summer bedding plants have been replaced with shrubs - can a few of them be brought back into use?

4) Rockeries - the upper sections of the gardens are not as well maintained as it could be, with areas of missing planting and usage of inappropriate species such as Buddleia. Happy Valley used to be renowned for its rare plants & shrubs, maybe a complete review of the planting within the gardens and a forward plan to restore it to its original glory?

5) Funding for projects - try contacting WREN (they have already contributed towards Queens Park, Craig Y Don, improvements*), Town Council, Mostyn Estates and get local businesses to sponsor specific features within the Park.

* - http://www.wren.org.uk/projects/craig-y-don-queens-park-improvements (http://www.wren.org.uk/projects/craig-y-don-queens-park-improvements)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Michael on August 02, 2012, 08:58:41 pm
 I have just been told this today. I'm not vouching for it being correct.
 Apparently on the Alice memorial in the Happy Valley there is a large caterpillar. I dont know, that is what I have been told. Apparently a local resident has objected to this. For obvious reasons I am not going to name her or where she lives. But she claims the caterpillar is too large. Also, because of its size, it will attract local druggies who like that sort of thing. Well we all know there are plenty of them around the Happy Valley at night.
   So the Council are in the process of taking off said large caterpillar and are going to replace it with a smaller version.
   I told you I am not vouching for this, but presumably something must have started this story  Mike
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on August 02, 2012, 10:20:48 pm
I don't recall seeing a large caterpillar in Happy Valley, even after several bottles of Sol.....  $drink$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: snowcap on August 03, 2012, 12:18:35 am
i blame Fester for to many sol---- to
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on August 03, 2012, 08:45:37 am
It's always Fester's fault, that is true.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on August 03, 2012, 10:13:44 am
I don't recall seeing a large caterpillar in Happy Valley, even after several bottles of Sol.....  $drink$

To be quite honest the first time I glanced at said statue I didn't register the caterpillar at all, but at a second viewing I thought he was lovely--- ahhh poor caterpillar-- wonder what will happen to the first one?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on August 03, 2012, 06:17:07 pm
I don;t remember the lights and things in the Happy Valley,but i used to take my girls to Happy mount park in Morcambe and they had lovely illuminated scenes and i think a small tented theatre,it was all part of their illuminations but it was a wonderful atmosphere.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Michael on August 03, 2012, 08:07:43 pm
So Nemesis bears out that there is or was a caterpillar around. So perhaps this story I heard might be factual. Seems to me a waste of money reducing the size of this caterpillar just because one lady (as far as I was told there is only one) says she thinks it is too big.  as I previously posted I was told who this lady is---and where she lives. Perhaps she might like to write to the forum to say why she thinks ratepayer money should be spent on reducing the size. Apart from the fact that it might attract druggies. Mike
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on August 05, 2012, 01:00:39 pm
Nice little walk up the happy valley this morning,my water feature was looking so neglected,but i pray the FOTHV can achieve the repair of our only water feature,please.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on August 06, 2012, 05:50:24 pm
Thanks for your very useful suggestions, Wrex and DaveR, I will pass them on to the Friends of Happy Valley. 

Regarding the current concrete "LLANDUDNO" sign, DaveR asks for the concrete to be removed and for it to be replanted with bedding plants.  Would replanting with colourful foliage plants be acceptable?  It could provide a longer season of colour. 

You may remember that my interest is to get more plants to attract bees and butterflies.  A representative of the Parks Department who was at the meeting said that any plants put in Happy Valley would need to be goat-proof in addition to any other merits which they might have.

Can anyone suggest any goat-proof plants, please?  I know, for example, that goats enjoy tulips but are not keen on daffodils but what about other plants?


Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on August 06, 2012, 06:13:24 pm
Goats don't like Rosemary, I have a couple of very large Rosemary bushes by my front fence for just this reason. They nibble the Senecio, but leave the Rosemary well alone.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on August 06, 2012, 06:54:55 pm
Thanks, Nemesis.  I'm pleased to hear about the rosemary - that's good for bumblebees.

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on August 06, 2012, 07:15:33 pm
While in Crete this year the rep told ud that the bushes along the motorway where there to keep the goats off the motorway,i just can;t remember what bushes they were but she said the goats don;t like it.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on August 06, 2012, 09:36:45 pm
Any aromatic plant is supposed to deter them.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Fester on August 07, 2012, 12:23:22 am
Sage Grass is not very pretty, but Goats won't eat it..

Here is an article with a list of quite a few plants which goats won't eat... I've never actually heard of any of them though.
http://www.goatworld.com/articles/nutrition/goatswonteat.shtml (http://www.goatworld.com/articles/nutrition/goatswonteat.shtml)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on August 07, 2012, 08:16:28 am
TRegarding the current concrete "LLANDUDNO" sign, DaveR asks for the concrete to be removed and for it to be replanted with bedding plants.  Would replanting with colourful foliage plants be acceptable?  It could provide a longer season of colour. 
I think anything like that would be very acceptable, certainly it would be an improvement on what we have now.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on August 07, 2012, 11:00:09 am
Just been up there with Frizzy-- the grass round the Llandudno flowerbed was being cut, the toadstools are 'unfenced', not so the bandstand-- there are demolition signs on that. ?????
Caterpillar is still in place-- he's fine, nothing large, evil or wrong with him.
Just to add to Wrex's pleasure--
They are weeding the big flowerbed (Mostyn St Gloddaeth corner) and they are working on the floral pocket watch !
Oh and Fester was busy-- great news.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on August 07, 2012, 05:25:37 pm
Nemisis are the bloom judges due then
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on August 07, 2012, 06:06:42 pm
Could be  ;D
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on August 07, 2012, 09:42:04 pm
Thanks for the suggestions for Happy Valley improvements and for goat-proof plants. 

Any more ideas?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on August 08, 2012, 07:31:26 am
Walked through Haulfre Gardens last night,no surprise uncut grass and very few bedding plants and the two beds that have been planted ,dead.One way out of this would be to give the Happy Valley and Haulfre Gardens to the National Trust,they wousform them and look after them.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Bri Roberts on August 08, 2012, 07:48:55 am
wrex, did you not think to walk onto the beach when it was low tide in front of the Imperial Hotel and send us your survey report on the condition of any sand that may still exist?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on August 08, 2012, 09:03:24 am
wrex, did you not think to walk onto the beach when it was low tide in front of the Imperial Hotel and send us your survey report on the condition of any sand that may still exist?

I thought I heard one Councillor ask why didn't he walk into the sea and keep going!     _))*
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on August 08, 2012, 09:08:16 am
A pdf with examples of a council scheme in South Devon for sponsored flowerbeds. It's a simple scheme to operate, raises the money needed to keep the flowerbeds looking good...why aren't CCBC doing something similar?

http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/media/pdf/k/r/sponsorship_1.PDF (http://www.teignbridge.gov.uk/media/pdf/k/r/sponsorship_1.PDF)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on August 08, 2012, 09:18:00 am
It would be cheaper and easier if they put down faux grass and plastic flowers.  Almost zilch maintenance and a decent display all year.

There are many councils that sponsor maintenance work in the community and we have a prime example with Rhyl, Prestatyn and Rhuddlan where many of the roundabouts are maintained through sponsorship.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on August 13, 2012, 10:42:40 am
Good luck with the clean up today, I will pop down later to take a look.

When I was involved with the Colwyn Bay Group, we spoke to Keep Wales Tidy who have a Tidy Towns initiative. It may have changed but groups could apply for about £500 of insurance, tools and equipment, materials, refreshments etc to use in these sort of jobs.

http://www.keepwalestidy.org/our-projects/tidy-towns (http://www.keepwalestidy.org/our-projects/tidy-towns)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on August 24, 2012, 09:25:35 am
May be of interest:

Have a Wild Weekend for Wales 26 -28 October 2012
Do something wonderful for wildlife this Autumn and have a Wild Weekend for Wales! Apply for FREE Homebase vouchers up to £200 to create a new wildlife habitat in your community.
Have a Wild Weekend for Wales aims to improve biodiversity by helping people to undertake small projects to benefit native species and create new wildlife havens. You can help improve the biodiversity of Wales doing something simple such as planting trees and flowers or building a bug box.
To get a copy of the application form and for lots more information about Wild Weekend go to our website or contact us on  029 2025 6767 or wild@keepwalestidy.org

Tidy Wales Week 17 – 23 September 2012
Keep Wales Tidy are hoping that people living in every corner of the country will show how much they care for their local area by rolling up their sleeves and cleaning up their community as part of Tidy Wales Week 2012.
To help you with you clean-up, we are offering FREE clean-up kits. We only have a limited stock so order yours today!
If you would like to take part in Tidy Wales Week 2012 please visit our website for more information.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on August 24, 2012, 10:05:54 am
Many thanks, Dave, that looks interesting and I'll pass on the information.

I passed on everyone's suggestions for improvements and for goat-proof plants, which were all much appreciated.  The Parks Department of CCBC is very happy to support the Friends in grant applications for capital for projects but apparently the big problem is a lack of staff for routine maintenance.  There is now a bed adoption scheme in place but plantings have to be in accordance with the Management Plan for the gardens (important to avoid invasive plants, for instance). 

The Friends of Happy Valley made a good start at the first working party, clearing scrub, sycamores, etc from one of the approaches to the Valley but there is still a lot to do.  There will therefore be another:

Friends of Happy Valley Working Party

Monday 3 September

Meet at Headlands Hotel at 10.30 am

Everybody welcome.

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on August 24, 2012, 10:45:08 am
Would there perhaps be more people attending these working days if they were held on a Sunday morning/afternoon maybe?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on August 24, 2012, 11:00:52 am
At the moment, the days and times have been chosen to suit the people available and also to take advantage of the Parks Department dropping off equipment and picking up the material cleared.  However, it's certainly a good idea to consider other days as well. 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on September 08, 2012, 11:19:02 am
Here's some information from the Friends of Happy Valley. 

From a Friends of Happy Valley press release:

"Friends of Happy Valley is a recently formed group of local residents who are volunteering their time to support and enhance the Happy Valley in Llandudno which is valuable recreational resource for residents and visitors.

"The group held another successful working party on Monday 3rd Sept when they continued their work to clear weeds, brambles and shrubbery, which was obstructing the zigzag path and the pathway to the Happy Valley. On Monday they tackled the wall and banking opposite the Grand Hotel. These working parties are not for the faint hearted as years of neglect and large amounts of litter were cleared.

"The group are keen to improve the approaches to Happy Valley to encourage visitors to explore the gardens."


And some information about the working parties:

"We are going to continue work on the approaches to Happy Valley from the town. Our plan is to thoroughly clear the top of the bank/cliff adjacent to the footpath opposite the colonnades between the Grand Hotel and Parisella’s Café. This would then create a 200m bed for future daffodil planting. If there are enough of us we will clear / thin out the bank between the colonnades and the Cabin Lift station."

The next working party will be on Monday 24 September, meeting at the Headlands Hotel at 11.00 am. 

A Facebook page has just been set up for the Friends of Happy Valley (http://www.facebook.com/find-friends/browser/?rpix=1#!/FriendsOfHappyValley)

The Friends of Happy Valley will be at the Alice in Wonderland bandstand opening event (http://www.conwy.gov.uk/doc.asp?cat=7849&doc=31843&Language=1) on Sunday afternoon.  Look out for people in high viz jackets with "Friends of Happy Valley" across the back.   
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on September 11, 2012, 07:11:54 pm
As councillor Janet Howarth is a member of the group can she explain why the water feature never works,newt one year,can;t get a pump another,not sure what they said for this year,its the only water feature in the whole town and CCBC can;t even run that.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on September 11, 2012, 07:50:58 pm
I virtually had to hold Wrex back on Sunday when he found out that the head of CCBC Parks Dept, Peter Barton-Price was in attendance.  :P

Seriously, the Friends Group have made a good start and are certainly getting stuck into the hard work. I'm sure things will get sorted out in due course.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on September 11, 2012, 11:10:08 pm
It was Ian;s event and all in a good cause so i was not going to cause a scene Dave,lucky for him ,i would have loved to have ripped into his dept ;s disgraceful showing this year. :laugh:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on September 12, 2012, 09:28:56 pm
Sunday's was a joint event between CCBC and Breast Cancer Care Cymru and showed how well Happy Valley can be used.  The Friends of Happy Valley would certainly welcome more events like that. 

The Friends will be having an audit walk through Happy Valley with the Parks Department staff to discuss what needs to be done.  Don't worry, Wrex, the cascade will be mentioned again! 

The concrete "LLANDUDNO" sign was apparently put in as a base on which to set out containers of flowers.  The Friends agree that, without the flowers, it is very unattractive. 

The next working party will be on Monday 24 September, meeting at Headlands Hotel at 11.00 am, to continue the work around the Colonnade area.  A large amount of scrub and litter has already been removed but there is still plenty of work needed to clear and tidy this area leading into Happy Valley. 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on September 24, 2012, 09:08:12 am
The working party planned for today has been cancelled due to the rather inclement weather.

A new date will be arranged and I'll post it here.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on October 03, 2012, 10:36:03 pm
There will be another working party on Tuesday 9 October (weather permitting), when the "heavy mob" from the Parks Department should be busy with chain saws etc taking out sycamores from the side of Camera Hill facing the town.  They plan to start work at 8.00 am, after coning off the top end of Hill Terrace the previous evening.  Any assistance in removing the debris will be gratefully received, so that the "heavy mob" can concentrate on the technical part of the job.  I haven't got a particular time for the working party - if you've got some time to spare that day, please just turn up and see if there's anything to be done. 

Efforts are being made to clear and tidy this part of happy Valley before the next event there:

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on October 04, 2012, 08:10:39 am
Excellent! Just to add, if they are coming back at some point, that the view of the 'Llandudno' flowerbed is obscured from the pier by small trees growing on the seaward side of Marine Drive.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on October 04, 2012, 06:45:50 pm
Dave will the tour include the abandoned water feature or do CCBC plan on restoring it intime for this event,nothing like flowing water.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on October 04, 2012, 07:13:10 pm
I do realise its Peter Barton-Price i need to speak to about our water feature,we could do with one on bog island,a nice fountain to admire.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on October 16, 2012, 03:04:07 pm
The next working party will be tomorrow (Wednesday 17th), meeting at Headlands Hotel at 11.00 am. 

The "heavy mob" cleared a lot of sycamore, etc. but I've not been on the pier to see whether they have yet cleared the trees which were obstructing the "Llandudno" sign.  Has anybody noticed? 

The Friends of Happy Valley are trying to arrange a date for a walk through Happy Valley with the Parks Department, to discuss what needs to be done or how the Valley might be improved.  Don't worry, Wrex, the water feature will definitely be on the list!

Hope a lot of people will turn out to support the Fun Day and daffodil planting on Sunday.  The Friends of Happy Valley will be there - look out for the green jerkins with "Friends of Happy Valley" on the back and do speak to someone if you're interested in joining or if you've got any suggestions for the Valley. 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on October 16, 2012, 04:46:05 pm

The "heavy mob" cleared a lot of sycamore, etc. but I've not been on the pier to see whether they have yet cleared the trees which were obstructing the "Llandudno" sign.  Has anybody noticed? 
 

Yes Blodyn we helped clear the one's from the zig-zag path last Wednesday and then the Council work party came back on Thursday last and cleared the sycamores which were along the bank by the sign
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on October 16, 2012, 05:21:12 pm
Thank you Blodwyn,there is nothing like a waterfall.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on October 16, 2012, 05:42:58 pm
Thanks, Blongb, that's good news and it's great that people like you are are getting involved.   $thanx$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on October 16, 2012, 09:28:06 pm

The "heavy mob" cleared a lot of sycamore, etc. but I've not been on the pier to see whether they have yet cleared the trees which were obstructing the "Llandudno" sign.  Has anybody noticed? 
 

Yes Blodyn we helped clear the one's from the zig-zag path last Wednesday and then the Council work party came back on Thursday last and cleared the sycamores which were along the bank by the sign
The ones on the sea side of Marine Drive that block the view of the LLANDUDNO flower bed from the Pier are still there, I think?

Good work on clearing the trees alongside the Colonnade road though, looks so much better.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Bri Roberts on October 17, 2012, 07:59:33 pm
CCBC were there this morning.

The vista from the end of the pier is much improved.

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on October 21, 2012, 10:45:16 pm
There was a good turn out for the Family Fun Day in Happy Valley this afternoon - and glorious weather, too.  Hopefully the Daffodil Capital has got off to a good start.

Nice to see Barbiroli there. 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on October 21, 2012, 11:24:03 pm
CCBC were there this morning.

The vista from the end of the pier is much improved.
That's not the bit I mean though, Bri. Im talking about the view of the LLANDUDNO flower bed from the end of the Pier, which is still obscured by undergrowth, as you can see in this photo I took this morning:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 22, 2012, 07:25:18 am
That's the LLANDUDNO concrete bed sadly!  :(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Bri Roberts on October 22, 2012, 07:50:38 am
Well I did not realise it was filled in with concrete these days.

Had it not been then I guess it would have been a perfect location to plant some of those daffodil bulbs.

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on October 22, 2012, 08:48:07 am
Even a few lavender bushes would look more like it !
Sorry I never got as far as the fun day yesterday-- let's just call it due to inconsiderate people mucking me about. :(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on October 22, 2012, 06:30:48 pm
Thanks for the photo, Dave, I'll pass on the message. 

Bri, I've been told that the sign was concreted with the intention of placing containers of plants along the letters. 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on October 29, 2012, 02:59:32 pm
The Friends of Happy Valley will be having another working party on Wednesday 31 October, meeting at Headlands Hotel at 11.00 am. 

The plan is to:
tidy up the roof of the colonnade,
clear weeds and the drainage channels and drains,
tackle the woodier weeds
and, if there are enough people, have a go at some daffodil planting too.

All welcome!
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on November 07, 2012, 08:09:49 pm
The Friends of Happy Valley have been working hard on the top of the Colonnades - see the Friends' Facebook page  (http://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfHappyValley#!/FriendsOfHappyValley) for the latest photos.

The working party discovered some drains that had become so blocked with soil that their existance had been forgotten, contributing to water damage to the Grade II listed structure.  Thanks to the efforts of all those involved, the drains are now running freely. 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on November 13, 2012, 02:53:32 pm
Friends of Happy Valley Working Party

Sunday 18 November, 1.00 pm onwards

Meet by the cafe to plant daffodils


There are still lots of daffodils to plant and time is running out.  If you can help for even a short time, please come along and join in.  If you have a trowel or a bulb planter which you can bring it may be useful but if not just come along - any help will be greatly appreciated. 

 $thanx$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on November 15, 2012, 12:49:46 pm
Glad to see the water feature working this morning. Wrex WILL be pleased !!!
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on November 18, 2012, 05:27:39 pm
Gutted this morning,walked the dog up the Happy Valley beautiful day but somebody had turned the water feature off,not sure if its on a timer or broken already.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on November 20, 2012, 11:30:51 am
Went for a walk though Happy Valley at Dusk last night and noticed that 11 of the 20 globe lights along the Colonnade from Grand Hotel to Happy Valley were either broken or missing. I have asked CCBC to fix them:
http://www.fixmystreet.com/report/291888 (http://www.fixmystreet.com/report/291888)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on November 24, 2012, 07:38:20 pm
Thanks, Dave.  Let's hope it doesn't take too long.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on December 05, 2012, 09:00:35 pm
Went for a walk though Happy Valley at Dusk last night and noticed that 11 of the 20 globe lights along the Colonnade from Grand Hotel to Happy Valley were either broken or missing. I have asked CCBC to fix them:
http://www.fixmystreet.com/report/291888 (http://www.fixmystreet.com/report/291888)
Now only 2 of the 20 globe lights were working this evening.  &shake&
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Michael on December 05, 2012, 09:05:33 pm
   Are you sure Oscar has'ent been there with a caterpult?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blodyn on December 05, 2012, 09:39:39 pm
The Friends of Happy Valley will be planting daffodil bulbs on Sunday from 12.30 pm.  Come along to the cafe area if you'd like to help - there are just two sack of "Tete - a - Tete" bulbs left to plant.

Wrex, prepare yourself for a disappointment.  One of the ponds in the cascade system leaks and as the water is recycled through the system the water runs away as the cascade is running.  This will have to repaired before the cascade can be operated.   :'(  The Friends of Happy Valley have noted how much you and others care about this and it's definitely on the list of things to be done but there's not going to be a quick answer to it. 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on March 17, 2013, 03:04:22 pm
The Friends of Happy Valley will be planting daffodil bulbs on Sunday from 12.30 pm.  Come along to the cafe area if you'd like to help - there are just two sack of "Tete - a - Tete" bulbs left to plant.

Wrex, prepare yourself for a disappointment.  One of the ponds in the cascade system leaks and as the water is recycled through the system the water runs away as the cascade is running.  This will have to repaired before the cascade can be operated.   :'(  The Friends of Happy Valley have noted how much you and others care about this and it's definitely on the list of things to be done but there's not going to be a quick answer to it.
The daffodils are beginning to make a show in Happy Valley:

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8242/8565434228_286eeaacbf_o.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/8565434228/)
Golden Daffodils (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/8565434228/#) by [davidrobertsphotography] (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr

The cascade - how much would repairs cost?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Cordyline on March 17, 2013, 06:49:50 pm
Nice photo Dave

If we ever get to live in LLandudno I would like to join the HVG
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on April 07, 2013, 03:47:00 pm
Daffs out in Happy Valley. It's a shame that this Listed Victorian Lamp has had the glass removed by CCBC and is slowly rusting away after being expensively restored back in 2000.  :(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on April 08, 2013, 10:22:00 am
Golly-- It looks dry. Hope saying that doesn't trigger a rainstorm.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on May 16, 2013, 11:44:15 am
Has the water feature in the valley been fixed,being fixed,been forgotten or been filled in(CCBC preference) D)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 08, 2013, 10:28:00 am
Walked the dog up the Happy Valley last night,looked wonderfull in this weather,Laburnham arch is in full flow,but and there is always a but especially with me,what is happening to my waterfall.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 08, 2013, 11:42:38 am
Walked the dog up the Happy Valley last night,looked wonderfull in this weather,Laburnham arch is in full flow,but and there is always a but, especially with me,what is happening to my waterfall.

Most men as they get older have a problem with their "waterfall".   A quick visit to your GP and some simple tests will probably get to the bottom of the problem!    Z**
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 08, 2013, 06:33:01 pm
Yorkie you know i have been trying too sort my waterfall problem out for years,wish it was that simple.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 08, 2013, 07:15:26 pm
Yorkie you know i have been trying too sort my waterfall problem out for years,wish it was that simple.

I will put my pressure to bear and see if we can at least get the spout to deliver a little dribble!   ;)

Sorry for my ignorance, but exactly where is this water feature?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 09, 2013, 08:56:27 am
Yorkie the Waterfeature is slap in the middle of the gardens,it used to have a waterfall then the water would go down to another pool,the waterfall has;nt worked for years but the other part has worked now and again,we get excuse after excuse,from newts not to be disturded to waiting for the parts,CCBC just be honest and tell us all money has gone to the bay and we are skint.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 09, 2013, 12:28:31 pm
I haven't seen any water in it for a while now - very disappointing.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on June 09, 2013, 01:10:46 pm
Plenty of duck weed !
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 09, 2013, 01:53:05 pm
First salvo successfully discharged .......  Now awaiting counter attack, but further ammunition already loaded to reposte any incursion ....   
 $walesflag$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on June 09, 2013, 01:58:37 pm
(http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-violent033.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 10, 2013, 02:12:20 pm
On a positive note, I see that a electricity supply has now been installed at the Bandstand.  $good$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 10, 2013, 06:58:42 pm
On a positive note, I see that a electricity supply has now been installed at the Bandstand.  $good$

That will delight Ian Turner!   Persistant lobbying sometimes does pay off.   :D
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 10, 2013, 07:13:11 pm
I wish
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Michael on June 11, 2013, 01:43:55 pm
  Any suggestions for the old putting green?

  My own suggestion. Not very nice, mega expensive and ugly, but in this day and age virtually indespensible to go with any attraction, tourist or otherwise.

 A large car park. Heaven forbid, even a two story car park.

 Both options possible unless I can be told otherwise. And, yes, I know about the enormous underground cavern beneath it.

 Mike
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on June 12, 2013, 12:03:56 am
Many years ago Mike we asked the Council if we could take over and maintain the piece of garden at the top of Hill Terrace, just in front of the putting green, to use as a car park. We were of course turned down but were promised preferential evening and overnight places in the new car park, which would be built behind the Cafe, when the gardens were redeveloped. That didn't happen either.  :'(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 12, 2013, 08:06:07 am
Brining more cars into Happy Valley would ruin its character, it's bad enough as it is with the constant squealing of cars struggling to get up to the ski slope.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 12, 2013, 08:26:02 am
 $good$If the waterfall was working Dave ,it would drown out the cars,bahumbug
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 12, 2013, 08:42:24 am
$good$ If the waterfall was working Dave ,it would drown out the cars,bahumbug
Yorkie is on the case with the water feature now, let's see what happens.  $good$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 12, 2013, 09:54:09 am
Yorkie is on the case with the water feature now, let's see what happens.  $good$

Maybe added impetus could be given if a few other "interested" people lobbied their Town and County Councillors.  As confucious said,"Lots of little streams will eventually become a torrent and ultimately a mighty sea!"

   $3towns$ has the power, does it have the will?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 12, 2013, 10:16:29 am
Who is the cabinet member responsible, Mike Priestley?

https://twitter.com/CouncillorMike
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 12, 2013, 11:30:55 am
Apart from Town and County Council having been approached, I believe that Judith has an article in tomorrow's Weekly News refering to the situation.

Now it has started, let's keep it going!

 ZXZ 

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 12, 2013, 06:24:31 pm
Good work, Yorkie.  $good$

I was pleased to see that the globe lights along the approach to Happy Valley have all been replaced:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 13, 2013, 08:21:23 am
Yorkie you know i have been trying too sort my waterfall problem out for years,wish it was that simple.

The answer seems to be in today's Weekly News - MONEY!   £30,000 to reinstate.   If that is the case then it would seem sense to start a fund now.  With a local population of approx 30,000 that's only a quid each!  If we can get another 50p from each visitor that should raise another £30,000 so we could have two waterfalls!

I'm waiting for a reply to my questions from others.

One County Councillor replied to me, "It's NOT MY WARD, have you spoken to Margaret Lyons?"   And there was me thinking that ALL Councillors, although elected on a Ward basis, were meant to work together for the benefit of the whole Community!   
Good old Dr Doolittle!

 ££$

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 13, 2013, 08:51:37 am
£30,000!!!! For a simple pump, timer and pipe? Both electricity and water connections are already there. How can that sort of price be justified?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on June 13, 2013, 11:49:20 am
Yorkie you know i have been trying too sort my waterfall problem out for years,wish it was that simple.

The answer seems to be in today's Weekly News - MONEY!   £30,000 to reinstate.   If that is the case then it would seem sense to start a fund now.  With a local population of approx 30,000 that's only a quid each!  If we can get another 50p from each visitor that should raise another £30,000 so we could have two waterfalls!

I'm waiting for a reply to my questions from others.

One County Councillor replied to me, "It's NOT MY WARD, have you spoken to Margaret Lyons?"   And there was me thinking that ALL Councillors, although elected on a Ward basis, were meant to work together for the benefit of the whole Community!   
Good old Dr Doolittle!

 £

http://modgoveng.conwy.gov.uk/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=968 (http://modgoveng.conwy.gov.uk/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=968)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 13, 2013, 11:53:29 am
Just an excuse,unless a certain county cll and his father priced for it
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 17, 2013, 01:44:16 pm
Re:  Happy Valley Water Feature -  I have received the following information:

'Happy valley garden is a green flag site and has a 5 year management plan in place, part of this plan is to identify in conjunction with the friends group monies to reinstate the pound and waterway liners.
We have undertaken surveys of this area and identified the issues, however, the waterway will need to be totally refurbished and at present funding is not available.
This I'm sure with the continued support and commitment of the friends group, will be rectified.'


More information is also expected later.    :D
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on June 17, 2013, 03:04:14 pm
The Waterfall works but it leaks and due to its long state of idleness Newts etc have been living there and that needs dealing with. We have been given outline costs of 0-£4K repair to existing pumping system £8K -12K to replace pump system and a new water feature £30K with a provision for Consultancy fees £5k. But once possible funding has been identified a professional specialist water feature company would need to be on site to quote.
The Friends of Happy Valley are hoping that it can go ahead but we have had the Grade 2 listed Lamps restored and with much hard graft opened up the Zig Zag path by the Colonnades and cleared the drains on the roof.
I will post more if you are interested.

Gerry
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 17, 2013, 03:23:49 pm
Please do post more, I know a number if people would like to hear more about progress at Happy Valley, including me. The Friends are doing a great job so far.

The various costs outlined for the water feature sound very high! The infrastructure, ie, pipes, water supply, electricity supply are all already in place, so surely we're just talking about a pump, controller and sealing the watercourse?

Here's another idea - what's the feasibility of tapping a borehole into the Orme to provide a natural flow of water? Given the figures we're talking about for a mechanical system, is this not worth considering? http://www.borehole.co.uk/ (http://www.borehole.co.uk/)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on June 20, 2013, 02:23:56 pm
Please do post more, I know a number if people would like to hear more about progress at Happy Valley, including me. The Friends are doing a great job so far.
The Friends were supposed to meet for a session yesterday afternoon but only one member turned up at the appointed time, so no progress this week.  :-}}}
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 24, 2013, 05:13:23 pm
The lower half of the water feature was working today, although having it running from a metered water supply may not be very cost effective!
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Ian on June 24, 2013, 06:29:00 pm
Quote
The lower half of the water feature was working today, although having it running from a metered water supply may not be very cost effective!

Normally water features such as that simply recycle the water endlessly, only topping up occasionally.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 24, 2013, 06:47:16 pm
Quote
The lower half of the water feature was working today, although having it running from a metered water supply may not be very cost effective!

Normally water features such as that simply recycle the water endlessly, only topping up occasionally.
Indeed! From what I can see, CCBC has simply connected a mains water supply into the top pool, the water runs down into the bottom pool and flows away.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 24, 2013, 07:30:14 pm
We had a look this afternoon and saw it working, I can't see why it needs £30k spending on it, a pump, filter system, time switch, pipes, how hard can it be?  I find it amazing that years ago we had all these things done, now it's just excuses after excuses!  &shake&
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 24, 2013, 07:38:39 pm
We had a look this afternoon and saw it working, I can't see why it needs £30k spending on it, a pump, filter system, time switch, pipes, how hard can it be?  I find it amazing that years ago we had all these things done, now it's just excuses after excuses!  &shake&
Indeed, it just makes you laugh that ridiculous figures like this aren't challenged and questioned more. The £30k included £5k in Consultants Fees - what could they possibly do that justifies that kind of payment? In all seriousness, I've seen bigger water features in peoples gardens!
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 24, 2013, 07:44:04 pm
5k consultant's fee!  :o. Stupid beyond belief!  It's not rocket science at all!  $angry$ this would never have happened in the good old days of the LUDC!  &shake&
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 24, 2013, 07:46:28 pm
I did sayI would see what I could do and it seems that instead of turning water into wine  -  I've managed to turn the whine into water!     _))*
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 24, 2013, 08:16:50 pm
The officals CCBC employ all seem to think we are complete idiots,instead of being truthful,we have no money for Llandudno,all we get is lies and pathetic rubbish of them and not one County cll challenges them on our behalf.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Fester on June 24, 2013, 09:48:07 pm
Water down the drain = Money down the drain.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 24, 2013, 10:11:38 pm
Its not their money so they don;t care what they spend it on,piece of concrete on Colwyn prom or 5k for consultants,as long as they get paid on a friday and use up their budget they are happy binnies.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Ian on June 25, 2013, 07:27:18 am
Since the fees appear unrealistically high for such an apparently simple project, perhaps the Daily Post or Weekly News could investigate?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 25, 2013, 07:48:32 am
Good idea, although I expect that CCBC would want to employ outside consultants to investigate!  :twoface:
Why do councils always need outside consultants anyway? Do they employ staff who know nothing? The CCBC staff all seem to be highly paid by us, yet seem to be clueless!  &shake&
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on June 25, 2013, 08:20:18 am
Good idea, although I expect that CCBC would want to employ outside consultants to investigate!  :twoface:
Why do councils always need outside consultants anyway? Do they employ staff who know nothing? The CCBC staff all seem to be highly paid by us, yet seem to be clueless!  &shake&

If the Paid Officers were allowed to do their work without let or hinderence from the Council Members, I think you would find that things would improve.   Not suggesting, of course, that all Officers are worth their salt!

The one attribute, so essential in today's World, and which many lack, is just plain, good, old fashioned, COMMON SENSE.     Y^^Y   >?>??
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 25, 2013, 09:38:02 am
It's a little sad to see that the only areas of summer bedding flowers in Happy Valley are now outside the cafe. All the other flower beds have been filled with shrubs/perennials to save money.

Was it only back in 2009 that it looked like this?

(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2661/3774643099_04abdc0cee_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/3774643099/)
Happy Valley (http://www.flickr.com/photos/davellandudno/3774643099/#) by [davidrobertsphotography] (http://www.flickr.com/people/davellandudno/), on Flickr

 &shake&
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 25, 2013, 10:46:59 am
Sad to see how the standards have declined, has all the cash gone to the Skip by the Sea?  :(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on June 29, 2013, 02:58:05 pm
Music in Motion are singing and signing in Happy Valley this weekend. Get down and show your support if you can.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on June 29, 2013, 03:41:44 pm
Spotted them last year on the prom--- they were excellent. Will try and see them this year. Any particular time llandudnotrust?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on June 30, 2013, 08:26:02 pm
I wonder what price these guys would give for getting the water feature back into action?
http://landscapingwarwickshire.com/aquatic-landscaping/ (http://landscapingwarwickshire.com/aquatic-landscaping/)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on June 30, 2013, 10:29:39 pm
Lets be honest,CCBC have no intention whatsoever of improving the Happy Valley,all money has gone to the bay and the 30 grand price tag is just a pathetic excuse,what is the latest on the wooden slipway?.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on July 01, 2013, 07:16:41 am
Lets be honest... . . . . . . . .what is the latest on the wooden slipway?.

No matter how much we prayed it still wooden 'appen!   :D

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on July 01, 2013, 10:22:22 am
it beggers belief that they have no influence on getting it fixed or has it been.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Bri Roberts on July 01, 2013, 12:47:54 pm
We passed it over a week ago and I remember commenting that a start had been made.

I assume reference is being made to the wooden launching jetty opposite the Imperial Hotel.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on July 01, 2013, 08:01:31 pm
It beggers belief that they have no influence on getting it fixed or has it been.

Don't go there Wrex. He is very ill and only has a few weeks left. Try and find another way
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on July 01, 2013, 08:08:12 pm
Thanks for posting this Blongb, I have tried to contact Wrex to ask him to reword/remove this post, but to no avail. I wasn't sure if what you have put was common knowledge.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on July 01, 2013, 08:13:39 pm
Thanks for posting this Blongb, I have tried to contact Wrex to ask him to reword/remove this post, but to no avail. I wasn't sure if what you have put was common knowledge.

I think he is past caring Nemesis
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on July 01, 2013, 08:19:02 pm
Such a sad situation.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on July 01, 2013, 08:54:47 pm
Obviously i was;nt aware  of his problems and it makes you realise that sometimes there is more to life,i do apologies.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on July 01, 2013, 10:31:20 pm
Obviously, Wrex wasn't aware of the situation. I have edited his original post.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Ian on July 02, 2013, 07:39:48 am
And I the quoted copy.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on July 03, 2013, 10:42:19 pm
I have edited a few posts to remove the individual's name.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on July 15, 2013, 05:20:30 pm
Below is the reply I received to my FoI request, you may make of it what you will!

1. Discussions have since taken place with the Friends of Happy Valley who are working with Conwy County Borough Council to actively investigate sources of external funding to pay for the renovation works.
 

2. Happy Valley is currently under a 5 year management plan. This management plan began in 2009 at which point discussions regarding the rill took place. It was agreed that the renovation of the rill pond and marginal area be included as a long term objective in the plan with a deadline of completion by the end of 2014.
 

3. The main reason for delaying the restoration of the feature is lack of available finance.  In addition the water feature provides a habitat for reptiles and amphibians including common lizard, palmate newt and common toad.  Care needs to be taken to avoid causing damage to the amphibian populations and any maintenance, such as cleaning, needs to be carried out sensitively.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on August 04, 2013, 10:57:08 am
I was pleased to see that work is underway to renovate the seating in the Colonnade, last painted in the 1980s, I think! The work is being carried out by CAIS and was organised by the friends of Happy Valley Group https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfHappyValley (https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfHappyValley)
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on August 05, 2013, 01:15:39 pm
I was pleased to see that work is underway to renovate the seating in the Colonnade, last painted in the 1980s, I think! The work is being carried out by CAIS and was organised by the friends of Happy Valley Group https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfHappyValley (https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfHappyValley)

A large amount of the old seats were used as firewood, when the area was taken over my a group of the great unwashed, about 4 years ago. So unless some CCTV camera's are installed it could be a case of good money following bad.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on September 10, 2013, 07:53:47 pm
We have just had a walk around (un)Happy Valley Gardens and thought we’d like to pass on the current progress of the improvements to the Water Feature
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on September 10, 2013, 08:05:45 pm
We have been told its too expensive,what can you say.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on September 10, 2013, 08:15:52 pm
We have been told its too expensive,what can you say.

If the Council has got money to waist on monstrosities in Colwyn Bay, why can't we have some for Happy Valley and Llandudno. Or do we have to wait until we are re designated a deprived and derelict area in need of rejuvenation. Because the way it's going "IT WONT TAKE LONG"
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on September 10, 2013, 08:20:58 pm
It does look very uncared for at the moment.  :(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Trojan on September 10, 2013, 09:24:04 pm
We have been told its too expensive,what can you say.

If the Council has got money to waist on monstrosities in Colwyn Bay, why can't we have some for Happy Valley and Llandudno. Or do we have to wait until we are re designated a deprived and derelict area in need of rejuvenation. Because the way it's going "IT WONT TAKE LONG"

http://www.conwy.gov.uk/doc.asp?cat=9012&doc=28858 (http://www.conwy.gov.uk/doc.asp?cat=9012&doc=28858)

In 2009 Happy Valley was awarded a Green Flag.  This confirms our belief that Happy Valley is a park worthy of a status of national excellence.

 Z@@
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on September 11, 2013, 07:08:17 am
I was in the Haulfre gardens yesterday,the lawns in the lower gardens have not been cut for weeks,take a look at that mess.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Ian on September 11, 2013, 07:49:33 am
Quote
If the Council has got money to waist on monstrosities in Colwyn Bay, why can't we have some for Happy Valley and Llandudno.

What particular monstrosities would you like? Giant statues of CCBC councillors, perhaps?

 WWW
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 11, 2013, 09:16:33 am
I know where there is a giant skip that you could have, it would fit the Pier Pavilion site!  :twoface:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on September 11, 2013, 08:25:06 pm

In 2009 Happy Valley was awarded a Green Flag.  This confirms our belief that Happy Valley is a park worthy of a status of national excellence.

 

In 2009 Trojan the Happy Valley was fully funded but that funding has now finished and all the Gardeners who were employed to look after it are no longer employed.

The grass remains uncut (the cheapest option) because some IDIOT within CCBC decided parts of the grasslands were areas of SSI. They are not; merely areas of man laid grassland that due to lack of proper maintenance have been allowed to become self seeded with plants from outside the Gardens.

CCBC were quick enough to grab control of HV from the Town Council when the Lottery Funding was made available, what a shame they can't or won't live up to their responsibility now that it's finished.   $angry$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Yorkie on September 11, 2013, 09:03:45 pm
Well, I am sure that CCBC still have plenty of other projects that they can b****r up.  Just hope they don't keep us waiting to long before they unveil the next catastrophe!

Just need to bear in mind that many of the projects are decided and managed by Officers of the Council, and not necessarily by the Council Members!  The "jobs for life brigade" with the "cast iron pensions".   Maybe a few changes in the ranks would help to start getting the ship on the correct course!
 :rage:
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on September 12, 2013, 11:51:45 am
Well said Yorkie, I completely agree with you.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on September 15, 2013, 05:47:29 pm
How about our Town Council shows some ambition and asks for Happy Valley back?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on September 16, 2013, 01:00:03 pm
How about our Town Council shows some ambition and asks for Happy Valley back?

 Dave would you take it on with no funding  &shake&
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on September 16, 2013, 01:50:12 pm
How about our Town Council shows some ambition and asks for Happy Valley back?

 Dave would you take it on with no funding  &shake&
How did they manage before CCBC took it over?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 22, 2013, 10:31:22 pm
Dont know if this is the right place to post this & I remember seeing this issue mentioned a number of months ago & not sorted. -  :rage:
BUT ---- Why have the trees not been cut down yet on the sea front side of the Happy valley gardens, so that the LLANDUDNO sign at the bottom of the Happy valley gardens can be seen CLEARLY from the pier. This should have been done a long time ago!!!!
 
BTW. These trees are overhanging the pathway - hse issue???? - this may push ccbc to address this issue therefore sorting it quickly. (or maybe not!!)

Even though the original idea of the LLANDUDNO sign was that it should be filled with flowers, it still looks quite good painted white. -  - - - As long as it can be seen CLEARLY from the pier.

Surely this should be done before the first boat (ship) docks at the end of the pier. - - Then all the Liverpudlians know where they are visiting.  _))*
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on September 23, 2013, 09:13:57 am
Yes, it's an obvious issue that needs tackling. The trees need cutting down and the LLANDUDNO letters need painting white. I could try logging it via FixMyStreet and see what happens, I suppose?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on October 04, 2013, 10:06:44 am
When will the Happy Valley become the Alice Valley.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on October 04, 2013, 08:40:42 pm
When will the Happy Valley become the Alice Valley.

In a Liddell while I expect  ;D
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: 1_rob_1 on October 04, 2013, 09:15:05 pm
I have logged the issue from my previous post a few days ago with 'fix my street'

Its an issue which should have been sorted a few years ago.
I wont hold my breath though, that it will be sorted knowing how councils work.  ;D

Rob

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on October 05, 2013, 07:32:10 am
Well done, let's hope we see some action from CCBC.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on October 05, 2013, 11:49:53 pm

Why have the trees not been cut down yet on the sea front side of the Happy valley gardens, so that the LLANDUDNO sign at the bottom of the Happy valley gardens can be seen CLEARLY from the pier. This should have been done a long time ago

Council workers started to clear the bank earlier in the year, to make the sign more visible but were moved on to other work before it could be completed.

It involves far too much risk for the Friends of the Happy Valley to try and accomplish with the resources they have at their disposal.

The idea of the White Lettering on the Llandudno Sign was to cut down the time consuming task of putting in bedding plants at the start of each tourist season.
The idea was to put in a white support base for trays of flower displays which were to be installed and changed as required.

Now like most of our other flowerbeds and gardens it is totally ignored and doesn't get planted at all.
The best bit is the Council still has the gall to enter the Town in the Britain in Bloom completion each year.
 
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on October 06, 2013, 08:28:07 am
I've noticed myself that less and less time seems to be devoted to Happy Valley by the gardeners every year. I could also make a comment about certain staff finishing early and sitting in their van reading the paper when they are supposed to be working....  &shake&
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on March 16, 2014, 09:33:31 am
All credit to the 'Daffodil Planters' . The display is beautiful.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on March 16, 2014, 07:36:05 pm
My OH and myself had to shout at two young children who were blissfully running straight through the flower beds, you show in your photographs Nemesis, whilst the Grandparents who were supposed to be looking after them, were completely oblivious to what their Grandchildren were doing. It took an awful lot of effort to put those bulbs in. (now if we could only keep the week-end marauders out of Happy Valley..............) $smack$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on March 17, 2014, 10:01:37 am
Bet you got some dirty looks for that Blongbob ! They really are beautiful. The daffs that is-- not the children ! :o
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on March 23, 2014, 06:08:39 pm
Hard work it was  :'(
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on March 24, 2014, 10:06:42 am
But well worth It--- the areas near Mostyn Champneys and Asda are lovely too.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wrex on May 15, 2014, 07:49:58 pm
Not sure how much this group has to do with the upkeep but it has been left to ruin.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: OrmeMac on May 16, 2014, 11:10:52 am
Last August/September I was surprised to see sheep grazing on the main grassy area. Now 'natural lawnmowers' are all fine and well but they do tend to leave a lot of little offerings in return for the grass. Shame they never went near the (by then) badly overgrown Llandudno sign that had all but disappeared in the undergrowth.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on November 03, 2014, 10:17:15 am
I'm told that, last month, CCBC have withdrawn the gardener from both Happy Valley and Haulfre Gardens and he will not be replaced? Is this really true?  &shake&
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Fester on November 03, 2014, 11:42:51 am
I'm told that, last month, CCBC have withdrawn the gardener from both Happy Valley and Haulfre Gardens and he will not be replaced? Is this really true?  &shake&

Did they have one specific gardener?
When I see any work being effected in Happy Valley, it is usually a CCBC van load of guys, with lots of flasks and newspapers!
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: snowcap on November 03, 2014, 09:16:26 pm
that my be the press waiting to see if any work is going to be done
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: wally on March 10, 2015, 06:22:43 pm
Not sure if this has been mentioned before, but we had a walk through Happy Valley today, the water feature is working and looking very nice.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Ian on March 10, 2015, 06:49:08 pm
Well, time to fish out the cameras, then  :o :o :o
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on March 10, 2015, 06:50:38 pm
Not sure if this has been mentioned before, but we had a walk through Happy Valley today, the water feature is working and looking very nice.

That's new today Wally, because it wasn't working yesterday.  $thanx$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: norman08 on March 10, 2015, 07:16:22 pm
Shame the toilets are never open ,all the tourists trying the doors and they are locked .
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 10, 2015, 07:25:04 pm
Shame the toilets are never open ,all the tourists trying the doors and they are locked .

I hope that is not the source of the water feature!  :o
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Ian on March 11, 2015, 07:42:55 am
 _))* _))* _))* _))*
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Michael on March 11, 2015, 07:39:01 pm
I am not sure of the facts here but I do know for certain that the cleaning of those toilets has to be done by the adjoining cafe, not directly by anyone from the council. No doubt indirectly the council are responsible but at a guess the rental for the cafe is reduced because of this cleaning undertaking.
 I suppose this is a reasonable idea. Saves council staff having to travel up there. But if the cafe is closed, well presumably ditto the toilets
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Blongb on March 12, 2015, 06:45:38 pm
"I am not sure of the facts here but I do know for certain that the cleaning of those toilets has to be done by the adjoining café,"  "But if the cafe is closed, well presumably ditto the toilets."é

You are quite right Mike, the Café franchise holder is also the key holder for the toilets so when the former is closed so is the latter. This is returning to a subject that has been raised many times in the past on the Forum.  :o
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: norman08 on March 13, 2015, 12:17:49 am
Well the cafe was open ,I said to the visitors to ask if the cafe had toilets
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on February 09, 2016, 01:33:34 pm
Lovely display of daffs this morning......even if it was perishing cold. But at least it was fine-then. !
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: hollins on February 09, 2016, 04:43:24 pm
They look so pretty. No daffodils out up here in the hills yet. I don't think they dare as it has been so wet and windy.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Hugo on February 09, 2016, 06:19:24 pm
They look really nice Nemesis.  It's good to see them planted in masses like that.       
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: DaveR on February 10, 2016, 08:54:20 am
They look so pretty. No daffodils out up here in the hills yet. I don't think they dare as it has been so wet and windy.
I have some out in the garden and I've noticed they are also popping up in the grassed areas along the Prom in town. I've also seen Geraniums flowering in Craig Y Don!
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on February 10, 2016, 10:51:27 am
My poor daffs in pots are struggling, as are my hyacinths, but I can't expect any other with the wind, rain and marauding squirrels !
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on February 12, 2016, 03:30:28 pm
We hope they last
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on February 12, 2016, 06:21:46 pm
Thanks lltrust. They have enjoyed a bit of respite today.
The crocus are coming along nicely on the road to Deganwy. Perhaps we dare hope that Spring is coming.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on February 13, 2016, 06:33:46 pm
The Crocus are just great a nice burst of colour for spring
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on January 10, 2018, 06:21:55 pm
The Friends of Happy Valley are also looking to include Haulfre Gardens and we are holding a litter pick this Saturday 13th January at 10am meeting at the tea rooms.
You are most welcome to join us.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Dave on January 10, 2018, 06:27:06 pm
You're trying to hijack beach volunteers!!!! ??? ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on January 12, 2018, 01:06:13 pm
Opps we will do it some other time
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: SteveH on March 08, 2020, 03:03:00 pm
Gwinllan is well worth a visit and they are very good people too. They gave The Friends of Happy Valley & Haulfre Gardens a lot of advice and practical help with our Community Vineyard Project in Haulfre Gardens.
They have great wine to taste and to purchase.

Thanks for that, and it is good to hear the community vineyard had their help.

It was good to hear that the vineyard is doing well,    $good$         what other projects are on the go ?
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on March 08, 2020, 04:52:36 pm
Looking to redesign and replant the Bee & Butterfly garden in Happy Valley this spring dependant on grants for planting and a lot of goodwill from CCBC.
We are also trying desperately to raise thousands of pounds to get the water feature working again. Looking back this was the main thing people on this forum asked about back in 2011 but its a BIG BIG JOB especially for volunteers.
We have refurbished about 60% of the memorial benches in both Happy Valley & Haulfre Gardens and look to do some more this year (if it ever stops raining ) to keep them looking good.

If anyone would care to join us they will be most welcome.


Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group...Conwy Green Flag awards
Post by: SteveH on October 16, 2020, 09:54:36 am
Conwy celebrates Green Flag awards and Llandudno’s Haulfre Gardens gains gong for first time.                  &well&

FLAGS will be flying at 10 sites across Conwy County in recognition of their excellent visitor facilities, high environmental standards, and commitment to delivering great quality green space.

Keep Wales Tidy has unveiled this year’s Green Flag Award winners – the international mark of a quality park or green space.

The prestigious Green Flag has been awarded to Llandudno’s Haulfre Gardens for the first time, along with repeat awards for the Great Orme Country Park and Happy Valley, Queens Gardens in Colwyn Bay, Cae Derw Park in Llandudno Junction, Pentre Mawr Park in Abergele, Wynn Gardens in Old Colwyn, and the Llanrhos Lawn Cemetery, Bryn Eyryn Allotments and Bodlondeb.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18797791.conwy-celebrates-green-flag-awards-llandudnos-haulfre-gardens-gains-gong-first-time/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18797791.conwy-celebrates-green-flag-awards-llandudnos-haulfre-gardens-gains-gong-first-time/)

Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on October 16, 2020, 03:54:45 pm
We need to find a spare flagpole  $walesflag$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group and Haulfre Gardens
Post by: SteveH on March 09, 2021, 02:49:40 pm
AN INITIATIVE with community groups in Llandudno saw a large amount of rubbish cleared from Haulfre Gardens.  ref Pioneer

Following complaints regarding rubbish being discarded at some beauty spots in the town, PCSO Mike Smith joined the Friends of Happy Valley and Haulfre Gardens groups to help with a litter-pick.

He said: “Haulfre Gardens is very popular, especially with local walkers during the current lockdown restrictions.

"It was heart breaking to see so much rubbish being discarded at such a beautiful location so I was pleased to be able to get involved with the local community groups to help tidy the area to make it a much more pleasant experience for walkers.

“I personally collected two full bags of refuse – which consisted of empty alcohol bottles and cans and plastic water bottles which had just been discarded.

“I would urge anybody who is planning to visit the gardens, or any other local beauty spot, to make sure that they dispose of any rubbish responsibly or take it home with them.

"The selfish actions of a few irresponsible people take the shine off what should be a pleasant walk through lovely gardens."

Regular patrols of the area will continue.

PCSO Smith, who has worked with the Neighbourhood Policing Team in Llandudno for the last 14 years, added: “Community engagement is a key part of policing, and despite the ongoing pandemic, we continue to be keen to further strengthen the relationships we have with local residents, groups and partner organisations.

“The recent clean-up was a great chance to do exactly that, whilst at the same time doing our bit to keep the local area tidy, and provide a visible uniformed presence.”

PCSO Smith covers the Gogarth Ward (West Shore) – which incorporates the Great Orme.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Hugo on March 09, 2021, 03:11:15 pm
Well done PCSO  Mike Smith     $good$
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on March 09, 2021, 03:14:29 pm
The Friends of Happy Valley & Haulfre Gardens meet every Thursday & 2pm to litter pick and garden. Normally at Happy Valley
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: norman08 on March 09, 2021, 07:32:20 pm
Hugo most of that mess is from those that drink and deal/ take drugs up there, we walk it every day some of the are like zombies, and yes the police have been told. 😢
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Hugo on March 10, 2021, 09:54:15 am
Just be careful when you do go past them druggies Norman they just have no sense of normality.      One who must have amassed more than 200 convictions  by now threatened me by a cave in Ty Gwyn Road.
I just walked away, but I think it was the same guy who took a haymaker punch at me when I was walking with two mates in Bethesda.
Luckily for him it didn't connect and he didn't try anything else afterwards other than give me a barrage of verbals
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on March 10, 2021, 11:28:35 am
Haulfre Gardens has been a no-go area for me for a number of years. I used to walk our last dog all the way round via Abbey Road, West Shore and the gardens, but was warned by a few dog walkers not to go alone because of the druggies up there. I now can't walk much at all, so there is no question of going up there, but there seem to be more and more strange people hanging around the area and sometimes the smell of weed lingers in places. Perhaps age and lack of mobility makes me more wary but I just don't feel safe ! :-\
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Hugo on March 10, 2021, 12:01:19 pm
Perhaps it's just as well that you are not going up there Nemesis.       Some of those druggies have been offered help but it doesn't seem to work with a number of them, it's a really sad situation.       
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: norman08 on March 10, 2021, 01:34:08 pm
You are not the only one to have had a run in with that scum on ty gwyn rd 😡, how many years has that big house on ty gwyn rd been a hard drug den, I'm sorry you had the bad experience in Haulfre Nemesis it so annoys me that the police know all about it but nothing has changed, all them cans/ rubbish there is nothing new 😢 The last few years, it's not as if the dealers are driving up there but walk up from church walks, as I have said to the local MP I don't care what the scum do in doors but the youngsters keep getting snared in easy money.😡
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: Nemesis on March 10, 2021, 03:43:47 pm
It was 10 years ago that I stopped going up there. As for drug dealing there are a few spots around here where we have seen dealing going on. The police addressed the matter, but it still goes on regardless.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: SteveH on April 23, 2021, 01:17:15 pm

GLODDAETH AVENUE SHELTER opposite the Oval     $good$
Scaffolding has finally gone up for the start of the refurbishment of the shelter, courtesy of Cartrefi Conwy and Conwy with lots of lobbying and support from myself (Councillor Louise Emery) and Friends of West Shore.

Cartrefi have just completed the new build on Gloddaeth Avenue's old Bryant & Hocknell site.  Being a social housing association Cartrefi always seek to leave a legacy for the community, and they approached myself and Harry Saville for ideas so we put forward this much loved listed structure as a proposal for renovation along with Conwy Council to which they agreed.
This will help secure the structure for future generations to enjoy.  Friends of West Shore have agreed to look after it once the works are completed.
The picture is a socially distanced working party out for a litter pick along Gloddaeth Avenue and West Shore.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on November 14, 2022, 10:14:31 am
The Friends of Happy Valley & Haulfre Gardens are very pleased to announce that work will shortly take place to completely refurbish the Happy Valley Water feature and Rill.
This has taken a lot of time and fund raising and we are very grateful to ?Local Places for Nature Fund? and CCBC Open spaces for their support in making this possible.
We look forward to working with Clarity Aquatics & Landscapes in seeing this project complete and the water feature back working again after so many years.
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: SteveH on November 14, 2022, 10:25:01 am
 &well& to all involved   $good$        $thanx$           
Title: Re: Friends of the Happy Valley Group
Post by: llandudnotrust on February 02, 2023, 03:52:42 pm
The Friends of Happy Valley & Haulfre Gardens are very pleased to say that after many years of campaigning and fundraising the water feature and rill is flowing again. Many thanks to The Local Places for Nature Fund and CCBC Open Spaces team and the Friends of Happy Valley .