00:00Police in Newport are exploring the possible use of forensic DNA spray to tackle antisocial and criminal riding of electric bikes.
00:10Councillors heard residents in parts of the city are too frightened to go out after dark because of nuisance riding.
00:17Alway Board Councillor Debbie Harvey described the situation as a nightmare, telling a council meeting that off-road and electric bikes were being ridden dangerously and causing what she called absolute mayhem.
00:30She said despite police patrols and PCSOs, fear in the community remained high.
00:35Responding to questions, Gwent Police Chief Inspector Stevie Warden said the force was adapting to the growing problem, with e-bikes becoming cheaper and more accessible.
00:45He said police were already using drones to track bikes and were now looking at reviving the use of forensic spray.
00:52Road repairs in Newport are a priority and will be addressed in the city council's new budget.
00:58That's according to council leader Dimitri Bertrouni.
01:02He told councillors the condition of roads had become a major issue for residents and was attracting widespread attention online.
01:09The council has invested £6.6 million in resurfacing this financial year, the highest level of spending in a decade, with dozens of roads already completed or scheduled.
01:20However, councillors from several wards said many routes had deteriorated badly after winter weather.
01:26An extra £6 million for Newport City Council has not been included in the draft budget proposals for next year.
01:34Welsh local authorities will receive a share of further funding after the Welsh Government struck a budget deal with Plaid Cymru in early December.
01:42Head of finance Marion Rushworth said reports were prepared in advance, so there was no time to consider the impact of that £6 million and then get all the papers ready for the cabinet meeting with Christmas in between.
01:55But the committee chairman, councillor Mark Howells, has highlighted there was a month between the government's budget deal being announced and the council publishing its draft budget proposals.
02:05And finally, Newport City Council has reaffirmed its support for Newport County and Dragons RFC, while also pledging to strengthen backing for grassroots sport across the city.
02:18The issue was debated at length after councillors called for additional help for the two professional clubs.
02:24The motion came amid uncertainty for Dragons in Welsh rugby and concerns over Newport County's league position.
02:32Council leader Dimitri Petruni said support for both clubs was central to his role, pointing to positive working relationships and ongoing collaboration.
02:41Letters from both clubs praised the council's support, particularly during challenging periods.
02:46However, some councillors argue that more could be done, including exploring new training facilities for Newport County to strengthen links with local communities.
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