Public gallery at Carmarthenshire Council Chamber closed on fire safety grounds

In a statement, the authority said the decision was taken “on health and safety grounds” and that members of the public would not be able to sit in the gallery to observe council meetings until further notice.

According to the council, residents can continue to follow proceedings online via the council’s website. For those without internet access, a room will be made available within County Hall to view meetings live.

The council added that where meetings are not webcast, arrangements will be put in place for members of the public to join remotely via an online link.

A spokesperson for Carmarthenshire County Council said:

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure of the public gallery. We are committed to ensuring public access to meetings continues, whether online, remotely, or in person.”

The authority also confirmed that anyone wishing to speak or ask a public question will still be able to attend the chamber in person as normal.

For further information regarding access, the council has advised members of the public to email or call 01267 224028.

The closure follows what the council described as a “recent fire safety visit” to County Hall. No timescale has yet been given for when the gallery may reopen.

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