READERS will no doubt be aware that a decision was reached in relation to two senior council officers this week and their employment with the authority has now come to an end.

This draws to a close a most difficult period for all concerned.

There has been considerable public interest in this uniquely difficult matter and, in order to be open and transparent, we want to make it known that a financial settlement has been agreed with both officers.

In both cases, this is believed to be much less than would have been the cost of continuing with a disciplinary investigation, which could well have taken a further 12 months.

We would like to make clear that they have fully cooperated with the council during a lengthy preliminary investigation and we wish them both well for the future.

Many readers will also be aware of the impact of the ongoing works to improve the Pwll y Pant roundabout in Caerphilly.

These essential works will help increase capacity at this key strategic junction once completed and will ease congestion at peak times.

We recognise the concerns of motorists and the local business community about the impact of the works and we are listening to the feedback that has been received to date.

The council is working with the contractor to agree adjustments to the traffic management layout on the site, particularly in the critical weeks in the run up to Christmas.

Hopefully we will be in a position to announce positive changes soon.