ISLWYN and the Northern Valley of Caerphilly County Borough seem to be the poor relation in regard to funding compared with Caerphilly town, and it seems levelling up put our communities at a disadvantage.

It is all very well saying we are all Team Caerphilly but many still feel there is a divide between the Islwyn constituency and Caerphilly.

As Mayor I am deeply concerned that there is no equal treatment within the Islwyn and Blackwood area and north of the Valley. So much for levelling up.

Perhaps the deputy leader who is the cabinet member for regeneration can respond and explain why we are left behind.

I'm sure the readers will welcome the response with the proposed increase of 7.9 per cent possibly on the table.

Cllr George Edwards

Blackwood Town Mayor